Destined to fly

DETERMINED to soar to greater heights, Chevanee Burke had dreamt of a career in the aviation industry since she was just 11 years old.

Her curiosity was sparked during visits to the airport as a child, accompanying her sister on occasional travels.

Burke shared her profound fascination with aviation, finding it uniquely captivating. “It’s incredibly distinctive; every industry has its own unique traits, and aviation is no exception. I’m fascinated by airplanes and flying,” she expressed.

“I did my own research and made a decision to work at the airport someday, no matter what. I vividly remember asking an airport agent how I could get a job when I was around 11. She advised me to research the companies I wanted to work for and apply when I was older,” Burke said.

Growing up in St Thomas, Burke attended Lyssons Primary School and later Seaforth High School. Despite her early ambition to work at the airport, her journey faced unexpected challenges. To occupy her time, she worked at various small enterprises. For a change of scenery, after working at these small entities she decided to go overseas for a little while.

Upon her return to Jamaica in 2017, Burke’s life took a drastic turn. She lost her brother to gang violence, and just two weeks later, she was hit by a car.

After recovering later that year, she made persistent attempts to kick-start her career at the airport. Though the initial stages felt like a roller-coaster ride, she persevered.

“When I recovered in November, I distinctly remember taking a bus to Kingston and standing at Harbour View in the scorching sun, waiting for another bus to reach the airport. I said to myself, I am going there just to ask questions,” shared Burke.

On her first attempt, she applied for a position with airport security but didn’t receive a call back. Undeterred, she persisted.

Remaining steadfast, she visited the airport again where she saw a friend who was working as an agent. Engaging in conversation, her friend encouraged her to speak with his manager. The interaction went well, resulting in an interview invitation the following day.

“They were genuinely impressed. I went home that night and I did some research on the company I was applying to. The next day, I attended the interview, and they assured me they would contact me. However, a week passed without any communication… I was really in need of this job,” she explained.

Upon taking the initiative and reaching out, Burke discovered that her file had been misplaced, explaining the lack of follow-up. Nevertheless, by the end of the call, she was informed that she had secured the job.

Burke’s journey at the airport commenced on November 19, 2017, where she served as an airport agent for Caribbean and Spirit airlines. Her responsibilities included assisting passengers upon arrival and departure, ensuring the maintenance of high-quality and professional passenger service.

In 2021, Burke ventured into the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, assuming the role of a team leader. Despite learning valuable lessons and performing well in the BPO sector, her heart remained rooted in aviation.

In March 2023, an advertisement by American Airlines for an airport agent caught her attention. She applied, underwent a shortlisting process, and impressed the interview panel, subsequently securing the job.

For Burke, this marks merely the beginning of her aviation journey. Driven by her unwavering passion for the industry, she aspires to become a flight attendant in the near future.

Her advice to aspiring women in aviation is to never underestimate themselves, even in the face of adversity.

“Always put your best foot forward and give everything you do your 100 per cent,” she encouraged.

“I want people to understand that being a flight attendant is more than serving drinks. I am more than just a pretty face. The job entails much more, including being prepared to save lives and offer assistance during emergencies. This is something I envision myself doing in the near future,” Burke added.

As Burke continues to soar towards her dreams in the aviation industry, her unwavering determination serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to pursue their passions.