Christine Mahoe, a seasoned professional from Local Lodge 1979, has been appointed as the new Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Coordinator at Hawaiian Airlines. With her extensive experience as a Chief Cargo Agent, a Customer Service Agent, and an impressive 15-year career in social work, Christine is uniquely positioned to build an effective EAP to guide and support the Machinists Union members through their professional and personal challenges.
Christine’s journey in social work began in 1995 and spanned across various sectors such as domestic violence, family courts, drug rehabilitation, and high-risk youth programs. Her ability to transition between programs during times of budget cuts enriched her expertise across multiple social work domains. Her roles demanded a readiness to assist youths in trouble and to reunite them with their families, skills that will serve her well in her new position. She also served in homeless shelters, learning to identify and leverage resources available within the community, a proficiency that will benefit her in the EAP role.
As the EAP Coordinator, Christine will draw on her past experience to ease the stress and confusion that can sometimes arise from workplace changes. Inspired by the mantra “Be the Change,” she plans to use her extensive experience to guide frontline employees navigating difficult times.
The EAP is a voluntary, work-based program that offers support to employees in resolving personal issues that may adversely impact their work performance, health, and overall well-being. These issues can range from stress, substance abuse, and major life events to financial or legal troubles. The EAP provides free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services to employees.
Understanding the unique circumstances of Hawaii, where different stations are located on various islands, Christine aims to build a resource base for connecting members to services within their communities, a task that aligns well with her past experience in locating resources over several islands. She will also conduct visits to these stations to educate members about the EAP and the significant benefits it provides.
District President Mike Klemm applauded the new appointment, stating, “Christine’s passion and commitment to the well-being of union members is inspiring. We’re excited to have her drive the Employee Assistance Program at Hawaiian Airlines, providing crucial support for our Machinists Union members during these transformative times.”
EAP Director Bryan Hutchinson echoed Klemm’s sentiments. “Christine has demonstrated exceptional dedication and capability in her previous roles,” he said. “We have full faith in her ability to lead the EAP and bring a positive impact to our community.”
“Looking ahead, we anticipate the continued growth and success of the EAP with Christine on the team,” he continued. Machinists Union Members are welcome to reach out to Christine directly or via email at cmahoe@IAM141.org. More information about the Employee Assistance Program can be found online at IAM141.org/141eap.
In the words of Christine, “When I was growing up, my father worked on the sugar plantation and was heavily involved with the union. I watched my dad help so many people who were treated poorly by management. He taught all of my siblings and I to always stand up for what we believed in and to defend those that could not defend themselves. He was my inspiration.”
