Category Archives: Making a Difference

Oct 30

SkyWest Flight Attendant Bests Breast Cancer

In 2014, an estimated 232,670 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. and approximately 40,000 women will die from this disease according to the American Cancer Society. And SkyWest people are out making a difference! From participating in walks and fundraising cook-offs to sporting pink awareness attire, our people are taking action to raise awareness and funds to help fight breast cancer.

Julie Bruno, a Denver, Colorado-based flight attendant, shares her story of survival and explains how the diagnosis helped motivate her to accomplish her dream of joining our InFlight Department. The following is Julie’s brave and determined account!

I started my career with SkyWest in Colorado Springs, Colorado as a customer service agent in October 2006. After getting some experience in Customer Service, my plan was to transfer to InFlight in the spring, but I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2007.

I will never forget that day. I went for my annual mammogram like I did every year. After the exam, I was told that the doctor wanted to speak with me. The nurse shuffled me into his office and all I saw were my X-ray films hanging on a white screen. The films were lit up from behind as to not miss a single detail. Nothing was said. The silence made my blood run cold. The doctor finally said, “You have cancer.” The only thing I could think to say was, “Am I going to die?”

That day my world had blown up and would never be the same. Things happened so quickly; trying to get a hold of my emotions was nearly impossible. My decision to have surgery and reconstruction was one of the toughest. Over the next seven months, I cried a lot, laughed a lot, loved a lot, prayed a whole lot and found people that have become my very close friends. I look at my world much differently now than before, and with good reason. My family, my faith in God, and a positive attitude got me through my toughest and darkest hours. I told myself that when I recovered I was going to make that jump to InFlight, which I did in August 2007.

I have been cancer-free for more than seven years now, and I would like to share my story with other women and their families who have experienced breast cancer. Many of us and our families (mine included) have been touched by cancer. We can benefit from each other’s personal stories which give hope and encouragement for a bright future. I hope we can all take this month, and every month, to bring awareness to breast cancer research and prevention.

Jun 18

SkyWest Employees Make a Difference in Costa Rica

When planning a trip to an exotic destination like Costa Rica, most people don’t think about packing their bags with 200 lbs. of paper, folders, coloring books, calculators, soccer balls, shampoo, stuffed animals and hair accessories. That is, unless they are SkyWest Director of Flight Operations Bill Mostowy and his wife, Brandi Mostowy, a Flight Operations Facilitator.

The idea for the unusual luggage started roughly two years ago when the couple traveled to Costa Rica to vacation and visit family members in Tamarindo. While enjoying the beautiful country, zip-lining and playing in the surf, they noticed a drastic difference between the tourist areas and back-country villages.

“We saw elementary schools that lacked basic necessities like running water, air conditioning, books, restrooms, paper, pencils and other supplies that any school should have,” said Bill. “And after that first trip, we knew we couldn’t return without bringing as many supplies and donations as we could carry.”

To help meet their goal, Bill and Brandi solicited donations from friends, family and their SkyWest coworkers who are always eager to help with these types of efforts. In fact, they finally had to stop taking donations because they simply ran out of room from all of the tremendous support.

After arriving in Liberia, Costa Rica, they traveled to the coastal town of Tamarindo. And while they thought they had carefully accounted for everything, the Mostowys quickly realized that the school year in Costa Rica had not yet begun and the schools were closed. Thankfully, two friends managed to contact school officials to arrange for someone to meet the group at the school to receive the supplies.

“As we drove up to the school, we were shocked to see nearly every student waiting for us,” said Brandi. ””It was hard to tell who was most excited, us, or the 15 students and their parents.”

After their initial shyness evaporated, the kids welcomed them and peppered them with questions, which they eagerly answered through the help of their translators. In addition to all of the school supplies, each child was also given a gift bag and had a chance to put together some SkyWest paper airplanes.

“It was truly an amazing experience to see how something so simple could bring so much happiness,” said the couple.

And Brandi and Bill didn’t just stop there. In addition to their trip to Escuela Linderos, they set aside supplies and toys for another charitable program called Casa Luz, located in San Jose. Casa Luz is a haven for adolescent mothers who have come out of abusive situations or extreme poverty. It was established in 2003 by Canadians, Eldon and Lori Cooke, who felt the need to help these exploited adolescents and their children.

Bill and Brandi both say they’re grateful for all of the support they experienced in putting together this humanitarian trip and are planning to organize another effort soon.
The care and compassion demonstrated by Bill and Brandi is also shared by many of the other 10,500 employees working at SkyWest Airlines. They are committed to going above and beyond, to help in the communities where they live and work. To learn more about SkyWest Airlines, visit www.skywest.com.

May 02

SkyWest Airlines’ Mini Indy 2014 a Success!

SkyWest Airlines’ Mini Indy 2014 is a wrap! In March, 30 companies from around the world traveled to St. George, Utah to compete in a go-kart race. Why would multi-billion dollar companies travel Utah to drive a go-kart that travels 23 mph? Other than the intense racing action, these racers gather for a greater cause – helping those in need!

Mini Indy is an annual charity event that takes place in SkyWest Airlines’ hometown – St. George, Utah. Every year, hundreds of people from companies around the world come pouring into St. George for four days of adrenaline pumping competition including go-kart racing, pit-stop competitions, golfing and fine dining.

Over the last 14 years, SkyWest Airlines, in partnership with the City of St. George, has raised more than a million dollars for the United Way Dixie, an organization that funds 16 community partners like Habitat for Humanity and the Dove Center.

To put it into perspective, thanks to the funds from just one Mini Indy, 23 families were moved from the streets to permanent living conditions, 12 children were placed with a Big Brother, Big Sister mentor, and 171 domestic violence victims received legal representation. And these success stories come from just three of the 16 organizations that receive funds from Mini Indy. SkyWest is committed to giving back to the communities where employees live and work, and Mini Indy is just one example of that focus.

While SkyWest Airlines’ Mini Indy is an opportunity for companies to network, mingle and have a good time, the impact stretches far beyond the track. It directly influences the lives of those living and working in Southern Utah.

Apr 07

SkyWest Employee Challenges Parkinson’s Step by Step

Patrick Altree, a SkyWest Airlines employee based in Phoenix, Ariz. first noticed a problem as he was pouring himself a glass of soda. That simple, routine task became a significant turning point when his right hand began to wobble uncontrollably. Soon after, he noticed trouble trying to eat soup or cereal, and his handwriting deteriorated to a scribble.

Patrick said, “I thought it was just stress or caffeine, and that it can’t be anything serious.”

After some encouragement, Patrick scheduled an appointment with a local neurologist. He was asked to perform basic tasks like opening and closing his hands, and walking down the hall. That’s when his doctor noticed that Patrick didn’t move his right arm as he walked. Following some additional testing, Patrick was received his diagnosis: Parkinson’s disease – a chronic, progressive neurological disorder characterized by tremors and general slowing.

“To say I was stunned would be a huge understatement,” said Patrick. At 38 when he was diagnosed, Patrick never imagined he would be living with a disease that normally affects those in their 60s.

“Parkinson’s has taught me a lot about priorities and the strength of the human spirit,” said Patrick. “Most importantly, I try to live a normal life.”

Patrick is also finding ways to fight back, especially when it comes to raising awareness and money to fund research. For the last two years, he has helped organize his SkyWest colleagues to participate in the Step by Step 5K Walk/Fun Run in San Diego. The annual event, sponsored by the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego, provides an opportunity for thousands to learn the latest about Parkinson’s medicine and research, and to find resources to improve their health and fitness. So far, team SkyWest has raised more than $8,000 by participating in the 5K and Patrick is hoping to raise an additional $10,000 this year!

SkyWest Airlines’ commitment to give back to the communities they serve is exemplified by their people in action. Patrick Altree and his dedication is a shining example of the passion and selflessness that is shared by more than 10,500 SkyWest employees share across the United States.

Catch Patrick and the SkyWest team in action this year on Saturday, April 12 at Liberty Station in San Diego, or visit the Team SkyWest page to learn how you can support their efforts!

Apr 04

Advancing the Role of Women in Aviation

SkyWest employee Melissa Adams & Daughters

SkyWest pilot Melissa Adams & daughters

From the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) of World War II to pioneers like Amelia Earhart, women have long played important roles in the aviation industry. SkyWest Airlines is committed to advancing the role of women in the industry, which is one of the reasons they regularly participate in events like the annual Women in Aviation (WIA) Conference. And this year, SkyWest provided several sponsorships so that even more employees could attend the conference in Florida.

For Crystal Jorgensen, a SkyWest flight attendant based in Salt Lake City, Utah, the chance to attend the WIA conference was an incredible surprise.

“I was almost speechless and a wave of pure excitement came over me,” said Crystal. “I was and still am excited and honored of the fact that SkyWest would pick me to go.”

Crystal says the conference gave her a chance to rub shoulders with many amazing people within the aviation industry.

Crystal said, “I not only learned of few ways to go about getting my pilot’s license, but I also learned where different aircraft parts come from and who builds them. As a woman in the aviation industry, I feel blessed to be where I am, although I am not finished.”

For Judi Stephenson, a SkyWest first officer based in Denver, Colo., the conference was a chance to meet some of her aviation idols.

“I stumbled across an article about the WASPs from World War II and I was hooked,” said Judi. “At the conference, I looked across the large conference center and saw Bernice ‘Bee’ Falk Haydu – the woman who was once named as the ‘President of the Order of Fifinella.’ This is a woman whose uniform is on display at the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum and it was an honor to meet her.”

Judi Stephenson & Bee Falk Haydu

Like other attendees, SkyWest employees also had the chance to attend classes and keynote presentations that continued to inspire them in their individual careers. The experience is one that they will not soon forget.

Marie Becker, a SkyWest maintenance purchasing agent from St. George, Utah, said, “Meeting the other SkyWest employees and spending a wonderful day exploring the exhibit hall confirmed that I had chosen the right career.”

“NTSB Chairman Deborah Hersman spoke about safety in aviation. It was so inspiring and as I listened to her stories, it made me want to be a better person, “ added Jill Baker, an Los Angeles-based SkyWest flight attendant.

SkyWest Airlines is proud to employ more 4,100 women. These incredible aviation professionals help in all aspects of the operation, from the ticket counter and ramp, to the maintenance hangar flight deck and inside the cabin. They truly help set the standard for SkyWest to be the Airline of Choice, Employer of Choice and the Investment of Choice.

Marie Becker and Crystal Jorgenson at the SkyWest booth

Feb 13

SkyWest Family Member Finishes in Top 10 for Olympic Snowboard Halfpipe!

The people working at SkyWest Airlines are truly what makes the company great. And SkyWest pride was running high as 18-year-old Kent Callister, son of Kim Callister, a SkyWest flight attendant based in SFO, made his Olympic debut in Sochi. Kent is the first Australian man to finish in the top 10 in the snowboard halfpipe at the Olympics.

Kent moved with his family from the Gold Coast in Australia to Oregon when he was 10. He came up through the U.S. junior snowboarding ranks and was even invited to the U.S. team. Kent chose to join the Australian team because of their amazing training program and with the hope of one day going to the Olympics.

Even as he was making his way through the senior international ranks, Kent didn’t expect he would ever be included among the ten best in the world at Sochi. In fact, he just learned his two different double corks in the weeks leading up to the games but has shown considerable composure to perform them for the first time under the pressure of Olympic competition.

“It was more than I ever expected,” said Kent when he reached the final. “It was just unreal, that’s the best contest I’ve ever been in. It was the best day of my life too. I just had so much fun out there riding with everyone.’’

“We could not be prouder of our son!” says Kim. “He is not only an amazing athlete, but he is the kindest, most sincere, fun-loving child we could ask for (besides our daughter)!”

Congratulations, Kent on an amazing performance!

Dec 23

Wishing You the Warmest Holiday Season

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Dec 18

SkyWest Flies 50 Children to the North Pole!

On Saturday night, the SkyWest team in Colorado Springs (COS) and members from the community transformed part of the airport terminal into a dream come true for 50 children and their families for the seventh annual SkyWest Fantasy Flight! Children aboard the Fantasy Flight are enrolled in one of CPCD’s early childhood education programs. These children live at or below the federal poverty level, have an identified special need, or have a fragile home situation that puts them at risk for school failure.

The evening started with dinner, hob knobbing with Olympians and goofing around with Sox the Fox mascot! Once the plane arrived, the little passengers showed their boarding passes and were ushered into their seats to experience the miracle of flight for the first time.

“I have wanted to participate in this flight for a couple years now,” said COS CRJ Captain Bruce Paris.

“It really is an honor!” chimed in COS CRJ First Officer Kevin Scott.

The excitement was palpable as the kids fell silent and stared out the windows for takeoff. Once in the air, the flight attendants sung cheerfully (although not always in tune) and encouraged the kids to sing along.

After a joy-filled 30-minute flight full of song and laughter, the plane landed at the North Pole (otherwise known as a different area of the airport)! There, the kids were greeted by Santa Claus himself (and Mrs. Claus!) and enjoyed opening presents, eating cookies and playing games. One little girl summed up the event with a single statement, “This was the best Christmas ever!”

A lot of hard work and planning goes into every aspect of the flight. Right down to getting the fuel donated and making intricate snowflakes to decorate North Pole. But if you ask Jamie Young, SkyWest’s COS General Manager, the planning is just a small part of the big picture. “Seeing the kids and the parents enjoy the event makes it all worth it!” she said.

Thank you to the entire SkyWest COS team, dispatch, maintenance and crew members, and many others who volunteered their time in order to make the event happen. You truly exemplify the SkyWest spirit of giving and what the holiday season is all about!

Interesting side note: In order to decorate the terminal, brand new snowflakes were handmade because last year’s snowflakes were donated to Sandy Hook Elementary in the wake of the tragic shooting. Last year, the COS team sent 200 snowflakes to Sandy Hook, Conn. where they were hung in the gymnasium during the Sandy Hook Elementary Snow Flake Drive.

Dec 11

SkyWest Employees Raise More Than $10,000 for Cancer Research in October!

SkyWest Airlines employees across the country are constantly engaged in many different causes and charities; one of those efforts being raising money to support cancer research during the month of October. Through lemonade and bake sales, direct donations and various other avenues last month, SkyWest employees raised more than $10,000!

Donation Highlights:

· SLC-based flight attendants raised more than $6,330 as a part of Breast Cancer Awareness month, including more than $550 from one flight where a frequent flyer announced he would match any donations from his fellow passengers.

· Employees at SkyWest’s Corporate Headquarters put their cooking skills to work for a bake sale and the Second Annual Chili Cook Off, with all proceeds going to support the American Cancer Society. In less than two hours, more than $500 was added to the month’s contributions.

SkyWest employees are proudly committed to supporting causes like Breast Cancer Awareness, and in giving back to the communities where they live and work.