NATCA Staff Spotlight: Political and Legislative Representative Annika Olson
We have an amazing National Office staff of which our membership can be very proud. They work hard every day and are committed to providing our members with the very best service and representation in organized labor. Today, we feature NATCA Political and Legislative Representative Annika Olson, one of the newest members of NATCA’s staff. Welcome to the NATCA family Annika!
Where are you from, or what places have you lived?
I was born in Syracuse, N.Y., but spent about 10 years in Southern California, 10 years in Massachusetts, and, most recently, Austin.
Where did you go to school, or what other education do you have?
I received my undergraduate degree at University of Massachusetts Amherst, and my graduate education at Georgetown University.
How did you come to work at NATCA?
After my first phone call with Government Affairs Director John Bressler, I knew NATCA was a place I wanted to work. With each discussion and each interview, I realized the strength of this team lies in their hard work and dedication — both to the mission of the organization and to each other. I had so much fun learning about the history of air traffic control and the role NATCA has played in shaping the industry. I am honored to be here.
Do you have family members who are involved in unions?
My dad was a member of Teamsters at Disneyland in the 1960s, as well as the Orange County Employees Association in Santa Ana, Calif. He recalls very fondly the work of both unions.
Do you have any hobbies or any other activities you enjoy outside of your work for NATCA?
I love swimming, biking, running, and anything outdoors! I’m a board member of the YMCA and volunteer with local food pantries whenever I can. I’m also an avid reader and am obsessed with black and white 40s and 50s movies. I’m always excited to continue adding rotary phones and vintage radios to my collection at home.
Has there been a favorite moment for you while at NATCA?
On day two of my work at NATCA, Sean and I went to an event on Capitol Hill and were able to chat with Speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi. It was quite an exciting second day of work!
My favorite musician is: Dean Martin.
If I could pick four people to have dinner with, dead or alive, I would choose: Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Gene Kranz (Apollo 13 Flight Director), and actor Stanley Tucci.
The best place I’ve ever traveled to was: My favorite city on earth is Florence, Italy. I’ve been a number of times and am always eager to get back.
My specialty cooking masterpiece: Last Christmas I made my mom homemade fig newtons, my dad homemade graham crackers, and my sister homemade Girl Scout thin mint cookies.
