On Sept. 8th,2022 WestJet launched its new uniform collection for frontline team members on a special runway at YYC Calgary International Airport. The uniforms, designed by international designer Juli Grbac, are one-of-a-kind in Canada and were created with safety and inclusivity in mind.
“The launch of our new uniforms is not only representative of WestJet’s brand and inclusive culture, but of the incredible WestJetters who make up our unique identity,” said Diederik Pen, WestJet Chief Operating Officer.
“Our new uniform collection has gone through design refinement and extensive wear-testing and I am so proud to stand alongside the many dedicated WestJetters who brought this uniform collection to life as we celebrate this milestone and look forward to a bright future ahead.” adds further.
"It has been a joy and an honour to be part of the WestJet family and bring this new look to life," said Juli Grbac, Designer.
“After significant designing, testing and feedback, these uniforms embrace the diverse needs of WestJet’s frontline staff and provide a look that will stand the test of time that can be worn with confidence.”
WestJet’s new uniforms are provided by Unisync
Unisync, is a Canadian corporate/imagewear uniform business with exceptional garment design capabilities.
Unisync and WestJet collectively received several accolades including; ''Best Program in Transportation – Aviation'' and "Best of the Best" at the annual convention of the North American Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors.
“Everyone at Unisync is honored to have worked on this collection in collaboration with the WestJet team and designer Juli Grbac,” said Michael Smith, President of Unisync Group Limited.
“We are so excited for all WestJetters to not only have a program that looks great, but also one that has been recognized for its high quality and industry-leading safety certification. From the beginning, we knew that this program was going to be very special, and we’re proud that WestJet entrusted us with this partnership.”
A Uniform fit for everybody
Throughout the development phases of WestJet’s new uniform, frontline WestJetters from all departments of the airline were consulted to refine the designs and create a product suited to those who would wear it.
WestJet was the first Canadian airline to update its uniform guidelines to be free of gender norms in 2017. WestJet’s new uniforms, The Lakes and Rocky Mountain collections, take that approach a step further by being genderless, allowing WestJetters to choose the uniform that is most authentic and comfortable to them.
Along with the new uniforms, WestJet recently updated its tattoo policy to ensure that frontline employees can show off visible tattoos and celebrate their individuality while wearing their uniform and representing the airline.
Every stitch ensures safety
With safety as the number one priority, every component of WestJet’s new uniforms have been tested for harmful substances or potential skin irritants. WestJet will be the first airline in Canada to carry the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification for their uniforms, ensuring that all WestJetters not only look good but also feel good.
What the new uniforms mean to WestJetters?
“The availability for gender neutrality is so important in supporting the larger and diverse group of people we have working at WestJet,” said Lindsay Poll, WestJet, Cabin Crew Member.
“As a queer-identifying person, having options on what I can wear at work, means a lot. When you look good, you feel better and when you feel better, you perform at your best,” said Jodi Tamuyao, WestJet Encore, Cabin Crew Member.
“It’s about wearing something made for my body that I look and feel great in. I love the collection because it does just that,” said Meg Bateman, WestJet, Manager, The Runway Uniform Fit Center.
Also read: Royal Navy Sailors Get New Uniforms That are “Cooler and Fireproof.”
