“Inclusion isn’t just about having a diversity quota; it’s about well-being and creating a supportive environment for everyone.” – Hans Dupuis, Air Canada.
At Air Canada, inclusion goes far beyond fulfilling a diversity requirement. It’s about creating a supportive environment where every employee can thrive. Hans Dupuis, a Specialist in Diversity and Inclusion, embodies the success of Air Canada’s approach, showcasing how the company’s inclusive practices are making a meaningful impact.
Air Canada’s commitment to inclusive employment was put to the test during the pandemic. With numerous initiatives paused and a significant turnover in recruiters, the company had to focus on retraining and rebuilding. However, thanks to strong partnerships with programs like Ready, Willing, and Able (RWA), Air Canada remained dedicated to recruiting and retaining diverse talent. This partnership enabled Air Canada to continue tapping into an underrepresented talent pool, ensuring that diversity and inclusion stayed at the forefront of the company’s recovery efforts.
Hans’s journey at Air Canada highlights the meaningful effects of the company’s inclusive employment practices. Even during the most challenging times, Air Canada demonstrated its commitment to diversity by expanding its workforce post-pandemic and renewing its focus on inclusion. With bases across the country, including Montreal, Halifax, Toronto, and Vancouver, the company has aimed to integrate inclusive practices at every level. Hans has been instrumental in this effort, ensuring that employees receive the necessary accommodations to succeed.
When one team member found their work environment too noisy, Hans, provided noise-canceling headphones. This simple accommodation made a significant difference in the employee’s ability to work comfortably and productively. Air Canada’s hiring process has also become more inclusive, providing candidates with interview questions in advance has reduced stress for applicants. This personalized and thoughtful approach ensures that new hires feel comfortable and supported from the very beginning.
While Hans’s title as Specialist in Diversity and Inclusion has remained the same, his role within the company has grown in significance as Air Canada’s inclusion efforts have evolved. Post-pandemic, Air Canada has made diversity and inclusion a core part of its mission, investing in a dedicated department to promote these values across all its operations. Hans has played a crucial role in shaping this vision, ensuring that Air Canada continues to lead the way in inclusive employment.
The collaboration between Air Canada and Hans demonstrates that inclusion is not just about meeting quotas but about creating an environment where all employees feel valued and supported. By embracing individualized accommodations, providing access to resources, and fostering a culture of acceptance, Air Canada is setting an example for other employers. The company’s partnership with programs like Ready, Willing, and Able has been instrumental in making these achievements possible.
Hans’s story, and Air Canada’s leadership in inclusive employment, serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of persistence, collaboration, and innovation in promoting diversity. Together, they are proving that true inclusion is about more than just hiring—it’s about creating a workplace where everyone can grow, succeed, and contribute to a brighter future.