The Seahawks joined Delta Air Lines, the Official Airline of the Seattle Seahawks, in hosting the YMCA of Greater Seattle's annual Accelerator program Level Up!, which saw 150 young adults come together last week for an exploration of life skills. 

The event featured workshops led by professionals in technology, human resources, banking, law, and non-profits, as well as a resource fair to make participants aware of community services available in the greater Seattle area. The conference helped attendees build their leadership skills in an effort to "Crush Adulthood."

Chuck Arnold, Chief Operating Officer of the Seahawks, and John Caldwell, Delta Vice President — Seattle, served as keynote speakers this past Tuesday, when the two shared stories about how they got started in their respective fields, offered advice to professionals entering the workforce, and shared what steps they took to achieve success.

"A couple things that I would suggest doing is look at yourself in the mirror and say, 'This is who I am now and this is the person I want to become.' What qualities have helped me succeed and how do I keep from wavering?" said Arnold, whose Seahawks career started as an intern in the team's public relations department before he took on a ticket sales role in 1994. "One of those qualities is character. I'm not the most talented person, but I have grit. Sometimes grit is better than talent. We've all faced challenges and had to overcome those difficulties. And the character you display in overcoming those challenges is what creates grit. I believe it is my character that has helped separate me from competition or the person next to me."

Added Caldwell, whose airline career began back in 1985 in reservations, marketing, and sales: "Find something you love to do, and you won't work a day in your life. Focus on your strengths."

Seahawks Legend Marcus Trufant and 'Voice of the Seahawks' Steve Raible were also on hand for the two-day conference, which concluded last Wednesday evening at Seattle's Benaroya Hall.