Finding a home aboard the Northern Expedition: Devon’s story
When I came home after spending two and a half years living abroad, I was looking for a job. My brother was working in the terminal at BC Ferries and told me to apply.
Within a year, I had a regular position. Then I got involved with the union and young worker initiatives. I made lots of new friends and met new people through work and the union. I felt like I built a little community.
Today, I primarily work as a second steward aboard the Northern Expedition. Like most of our crew, I fly to Prince Rupert before spending 14 days living and working with the same people. You definitely feel like they’re your family or your home away from home.
The best part of my job is customer service. I like making people’s day. Sometimes it’s just a small thing for me to do, but it totally brightens a tourist’s or local’s day.
I think a lot of people just look at us as the people who serve them burgers and take their money at the till. They don’t always realize that catering crew also play a critical role in passenger safety.
In an emergency, we’d have everybody organized and know who’s who. We do a lot of preparation to make sure we’re ready if something happens.
One of the things I appreciate most about BC Ferries is the safety culture. You can see it in every department. Safety is the primary focus, then the rest is customer service.
Working the northern routes comes with challenges too. Because we’re on board for long sailings and serve alcohol, dealing with abusive behaviour from passengers can be difficult. We’re food primary licensed. You can enjoy a drink with your meal, but it’s not a party boat, as I’ve had to remind people sometimes.
One experience I’ll never forget was helping a passenger find a lost wedding ring. The cabin had already been cleaned, but I decided to take one more look. I got down on my hands and knees looking under the beds. I noticed the moulding had pulled away a bit, reached behind it, and sure enough, there was the wedding ring.
The passengers later tracked me down through the terminal and sent me a gift card to thank me. It was nice to be recognized for going above and beyond.
As one of the union’s LGBTQ+ members, I’ve always felt supported for who I am. There aren’t a ton of us, but I’ve never felt anything but welcome. Between the company and the union, it’s felt like a welcoming space.
For me, it’s the people, the sense of community and the opportunity to make someone’s day that keep me coming back. Sometimes it’s just a small thing, but it can make a big difference.
Devon Crump, Local 10 Secretary-Treasurer
