Happy Father’s Day to all of our SkyWest dads and to the fathers who have helped encourage us to achieve our aviation dreams! This includes Captain Mark, who inspired his daughter, First Officer McKenna, to pursue a career as a pilot.

“Long story short, I got into aviation because of my dad,” McKenna said. “I don’t know many people who still have a passion for what they do after doing it for 30 years. That’s rare.”

Captain Mark has been with SkyWest for nearly three decades and he has been a part of plenty of positive changes over the years. In fact, he remembers a time when there were only 500 SkyWest pilots and our operations were much smaller.

“SkyWest has been smart with their growth over the years,” Captain Mark said. “I’ve had a good career and life here.”

McKenna was surrounded by the aviation industry growing up, but it wasn’t until she was a few years into a medical degree that she decided to make the switch to aviation and follow in her father’s footsteps to become a pilot.

“I’m grateful to have parents who supported my decision,” McKenna said. “And I’m especially grateful to have the best example of the kind of pilot I hope to be someday.”

McKenna was familiar with SkyWest thanks to her dad’s career and knew it would be a great place to fly. She was also drawn in because of the travel opportunities and special memories her family was able to make growing up.

“I always thought SkyWest was the best, but the more I learned about my opportunities here, the more I found that to be true.” McKenna said. “I’m proud to work here and be surrounded by great people who are really good at what they do.”

Captain Mark and McKenna’s shared journey in aviation has strengthened their bond. They are grateful for the opportunity they have had to both be at SkyWest where they’ve even been able to fly a short turn together, from Salt Lake City, (SLC) to Fresno (FAT).

“The greatest day I have had at work was a couple of weeks ago, when I got to fly with my daughter, I don’t think anything could ever top that,” Captain Mark said.

“Flying with my dad has been my goal for many years now, and it was so cool to finally accomplish it and work with him,” McKenna said. “He is a great example to me of exactly what a Captain should be, and I appreciate his guidance and support.”

Aviation has truly become a family tradition for their family. All three of Captain Mark’s children completed their flight training and soloed at Utah State University, just like he did. McKenna’s younger brother is currently a flight instructor, and her older sister had been scheduled to begin ground school at SkyWest before her unexpected passing.

“I have great kids, and I know McKenna’s big sister was with us on that flight,” Captain Mark said. “Everything McKenna has accomplished is a testament to her strength and the challenges she’s overcome. I couldn’t be more proud of her.”