Meet Christopher Spring – Vancouver based ramp agent, pilot, and three time Olympic bobsledder. Christopher began bobsledding in 2007 at Canada Olympic Park in Calgary. “It all happened so fast (excuse the pun) as I was visiting the track to watch a race and got to talking to one of the athletes there. They asked if I wanted to give it a go and the following week I was in the back of a sled!”
Over the years, his hard work and dedication to the sport has earned him a needed rest. “Fifth place is my best Olympic finish and I know that if my team and I are to win a medal in 2022, I have to be 100% healthy. So, I’m stepping away from competition this season to rehab some old injuries and make sure I’m ready to make a push for the 2022 Olympic podium.”
While preparing for his next Olympic experience and focusing on taking care of his body, Christopher decided to join the Pacific Coastal Airlines family to follow another passion – the aviation industry. “I’ve been intrigued by flight since a very young age and I loved to travel and fly, but it wasn’t until last summer that I decided to look into a career in aviation. I knew that my athletic career was nearing an end and I wanted to make sure that my next career was something I really enjoyed, so I decided to give aviation a try.”
Christopher recently earned his private pilot license and continues to learn more about the aviation industry while working at the Vancouver South Terminal Airport. “The fact that the majority of the ramp agents are pilots has been extremely helpful to my aviation career. There isn’t a day that goes by without some discussion about aviation, whether its exam questions, different airport procedures, or schooling pathways. I’ve really benefitted from working here. It’s very motivating to see some of the guys move up to the flight line and into the front seat.”
Keep your eyes out for Christopher Spring when you’re boarding your next flight with Pacific Coastal. This Australian-Canadian always has a smile on his face and, you’ll see him working hard to achieve his goals as a pilot for our Canadian bobsled team, and as a private pilot working on his commercial license!
Story by Jodie Sanheim
Photos, left to right, by Jodie Sanheim (1) and Christopher Spring (2-4)