This is a tough one, but being an AS ANC employee, I feel like I should attempt to address your comments. I understand where you are coming from, and I can say that the company is, generally speaking, always hiring for various ANC positions. In union jobs (which ramp and customer service are) you work crummy hours for an awfully low wage until you can build up some seniority. It's no secret, so I'll point out that rampers start at under $10 an hour and that customer service agents start at a few cents over $10 an hour. (It's a constant struggle to hire and retain top-notch people.)
In a place like Alaska, that isn't much money. There are some nice benefits including insurance and travel, but if you can't eat...those don't help much.
On the flip side, after fuel, labor is the most expensive item on the company budget sheet. Hedging aside, the price of fuel is something the company has precious little control over. (Oil just hit $80 a barrel!) Payroll is something they can control a little more. I agree that it affects us all...it's no fun to work short, just like it's no fun to stand in line.
Could a better balance be found? I don't know. I guess that's why I am a ramper and not the CEO!
I would like to make more money, I would like to see positions more fully staffed...I would also like to see AS turn a profit and continue to be a viable entity.
The industry as a whole is in a tough spot. I wish that many things were different. I sincerely apologize for the negative impact that some of these things have on you. Our customers are the most important part of the business. You are why I have a job. Thank you for flying with us.
I, for one, will continue to go the extra mile for you. I don't generally interact with you, but be assured that I am "downstairs" working to make sure your bag connects with your flight, that everything is loaded safely, and that the mail, food, animals, and medicine moving between "The Great State" and the lower 48 are all well looked after.
Try to show some forebearance to my coworkers on the front lines. Most of them are really great people. And if you are watching us work out on the ramp (aka "the fishbowl") feel free to give a wave. Most of us will appreciate it.
I'm sorry I don't really have any answers...and the concerns you raised are most valid. I just thought I'd provide another (not better, but just different) perspective.
Your FT friend,
-eastwest