Category Archives: Making a Difference

Nov 30

Native American Heritage Month: Embracing Heritage and Culture

SkyWest is home to incredible people. This includes First Officer Emmalee G., and Flight Attendants Nicolette S. and Valerie S. who each shared their thoughts about Native American Heritage Month and how their background and experience has been a part of their careers at SkyWest.

Nicolette S. – SLC Flight Attendant

For Nicolette, becoming a flight attendant meant taking a chance on a career that was totally unknown to her. She joined the SkyWest team as the first class of 2017, an experience that she calls transformative.

“I can’t imagine leaving the aviation industry,” said Nicolette. “It’s allowed me to explore many opportunities. I only wish I had gotten my foot in the door a lot sooner, as I’m so grateful to work for a company that recognizes diversity and community.”

In celebrating Native American Heritage Month, Nicolette emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, success, and contemporary representation of Indigenous People. She is also very happy to be in a position of strong connections to her roots, highlighting her pride in working for a company that recognizes diversity.

Nicolette considers it an honor to represent the Dine’ (Navajo) spirit while flying. She aims to make her community proud by raising awareness about topics close to her heart and strives to contribute to increasing opportunities in the aviation industry for Indigenous People.

“I’m blessed for all the love and support from family and friends,” said Nicolette. “It’s an honor to spread the Dine’ spirit while flying.”

Looking ahead, Nicolette looks forward to returning to Dine’tah (Navajo Nation) to spend time with her family and friends. Engaging in family activities like cooking, beading, and winter storytelling by a warm fire are things she finds grounding and that hep connect her to her identity and aspirations, both in the air and on the ground.

Emmalee G. – DTW First Officer

Four years ago, Emmalee was motivated by her brother – a fellow SkyWest pilot – into transitioning from flight instructing to apply as a SkyWest pilot. It’s a decision she considers among the best in her life. Flying alongside her brother and sharing the flight deck with other Native Americans “has added a unique dimension to her aviation experience.”

In recognizing Native American/Alaska Native Legacies this month, Emmalee believes it’s very important to share with others the historical impact of these communities.

“It’s important to recognize these present-day heroes,” said Emmalee. “Native Americans/Alaska Natives have a rich history of contributing positively, and breaking barriers. We are here, proudly representing our cultures throughout the world.”

Learning about her heritage and culture through books and conversations with family members, Emmalee is excited to become a mouthpiece of her history and looks forward to following her family’s footsteps. Her mother, in particular, crafts Kuspuks (similar to hoodies) for family members, a talent she said inspired her to learn Iñupiaq, a native language fluently spoken by only about 2,000 people. Despite the initial challenges of learning due to limited resources, Emmalee finds joy in finding new learning tools, and credits the guidance of a family friend from Nome, Alaska.

For Emmalee, this month is all about learning. Learning more about her ancestors and about her native language becomes a meaningful way to celebrate and connect with her heritage and culture.

Valerie S. – DEN Flight Attendant

A proud member of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibway Tribe on the Cass Lake Indian Reservation in Northern Minnesota, Valerie’s heritage reflects a blend of an Ojibway mother and a Norwegian father. She got her start at SkyWest thanks to a friend, Jill Roundy, a SkyWest flight attendant, who encouraged her to attend a group interview.

“When I realized Skywest is contracted to fly into the Bemidji Regional Airport (BJI), which is only 16 miles West from Cass Lake, I was excited,” Valerie said. “I could now visit my family more often, and I could also give them the opportunity to travel the world.”

Drawn by the proximity to BJI, she accepted the job offer and began training. For her initial five months at SkyWest, she was based in Minneapolis, Minnesota but a transfer back to Salt Lake City, Utah came a month before the passing of her father. Grateful for the moments and memories her employment with SkyWest provided during this challenging time, she cherishes the ability to spend those precious last moments with her father.

For Valerie, this month is a great reminder of what her heritage has done for her life. Her tribe’s support played a crucial role in her earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. As a Social Worker, she dedicated her time to giving back, focusing on services tailored for Native Americans, including mental health counseling for LDS Social Services.

Beyond academic pursuits, Valerie represented her tribe in athletics, qualifying for the First Women’s Olympic Trials in 1984 and the 1988 Olympic Trials. Her tribe’s support, demonstrated through a “Blanket Dance” at a local Pow Wow, helped fund her participation in these events. Valerie’s achievements include winning the Salt Lake City Deseret News Marathon three times, securing second place at the St. George Marathon, and induction into the St George Marathon’s Road of Fame.

Throughout her career with SkyWest, she has cherished four-day trips that allowed overnight stays, offering precious moments to visit family. Her travel privileges also allowed her to attend a surprise birthday party for her mother and to be together with all her siblings for the first time ever. It became a cherished memory, especially since one of her sisters passed away not long after.

“I’m grateful for the opportunities SkyWest has provided me to travel the world and visit my family,” Valerie said. “I’m thankful for my Native American heritage, and I will continue to live to make my tribe proud of me.”

Nov 28

Giving Tuesday: SkyWest People Leading by Example

SkyWest people are known for providing reliable air service to millions of passengers every month, but our work often goes beyond the airports we work in. Throughout 2023, SkyWest people have regularly gone above and beyond to give back in the communities where we live and work.

In honor of #GivingTuesday, here are a few examples of how SkyWest teams are having a positive impact:

Southern Utah Food Bank
This week, several dozen SkyWest employees volunteered at the Utah Food Bank’s Southern Distribution Center. There they organized and packed over 2,000 pounds of food to help those in need living in Utah’s six southernmost counties: Beaver, Iron, Washington, Garfield, Kane and San Juan. Through the Distribution Center, 46 local pantries and other partner organizations in Southern Utah are receiving products more directly and frequently from Utah Food Bank.

Across the state, employees are also helping to fight hunger by contributing to SkyWest’s virtual food drive. This year we are hoping to raise $4,000. Every dollar donated will become $8.36 toward food and necessities for Utahns in need, allowing us to strengthen our positive impact.

Special Olympics Plane Pulls
Teams of SkyWest employees in Colorado Springs and Chicago “pulled” out all the stops to help support the Special Olympics Colorado and Special Olympics Illinois at two different plane pulls. Both organizations exceeded their fundraising goals and can continue providing year-round sports, competitions, health screenings, and leadership opportunities to nearly 21,000 athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Spirit of SkyWest
The SOS: Our People in Action program is unique in supporting the causes and groups that our employees are most passionate about. Just this year, more than 30 employees have participated in a non-profit event. In each case, SkyWest donates to the charity on behalf of the employees involved. This includes events to raise awareness for tuberous sclerosis complex research, accessible healthcare for communities in Texas, and the Special Olympics plane pulls.

American Red Cross
The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. Together, SkyWest people have donated more than $10,300 this year alone to help those affected by natural disasters and other humanitarian crises.

SkyWest Supports On Board with Autism
Nearly 30 kids and their families boarded a SkyWest aircraft in Erie, Pennsylvania (ERI). Unlike a typical flight, though, the plane never left the ground because the flight was part of On Board with Autism, an event organized by the Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania. Read how airport officials and SkyWest crew assisted in creating a positive and memorable experience for all involved.

Thank you to all of our people for the many ways you contribute to make your communities and our world a better place! We encourage you to keep finding ways to give back, no matter how small. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact.

Nov 11

Honoring Our SkyWest Veterans

Veterans Day is a time to honor the brave individuals who have devoted themselves to serving America. It’s a chance to recognize their sacrifices, dedication, and their unwavering commitment to our country. Among the countless heroes who have selflessly served are many SkyWest people.

Command Master Chief Neal J.

Neal, a Scottsbluff (BFF) cross utilized agent, served in the U.S. Navy for 32 years. When enlisting in 1982, he was aiming for a career in aviation, but vision constraints led him to serve 20 years on submarines.

“I became a sonar technician, which I call an air traffic controller under the water,” Neal said.

In the ‘80s, he completed a tour in Japan, was deployed in the Philippines where he met his eventual wife, Minda, and then spent 12 years in Hawaii. Neal did tours in Kings Bay, Georgia; Bremerton, Washington; San Diego and Ridgecrest, California; Fallon, Nevada; El Paso, Texas; and Patuxent River, Maryland.

One assignment on the U.S.S. Maine was to do deterrent patrolling.

“We make sure that our enemies — Russia, China, all of them — know that we’re out there and we’ve got 24 ballistic missiles with 10 warheads pointed at them if they decide to do anything,” Neal said. “We always said if we ever actually had to launch, we failed our mission. We didn’t ever want to launch.”

Although they launched a test missile, his subs never launched a ballistic missile for war. His longest submarine deployment lasted 124 days underwater in the western Pacific.

“The best way to summarize a submarine is that you would have weeks of boredom followed by moments of sheer terror, especially if you actually had a real accident or real casualty,” he said.

Over the years, Neal worked his way up the ranks to the Chief of Boat (COB) and a trainer for sonar staff. With 20 years under his belt, Neal was selected to join the Command Master Chief program, releasing him from submarines to switch to aviation.

“Once I got my eyes corrected, they let me go flying. I joined the Navy to be in aviation, and I got there, it just took me 20 years to do it in a roundabout way.”

Neal spent his last 12 years in senior leadership positions in aviation commands. After a family emergency scare, he decided to retire as a Command Master Chief in 2014 and moved to Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

“It was a job, and a job I loved,” Neal said.

When SkyWest began operations at BFF, Neal jumped on the opportunity to work in the commercial aviation industry and now works as a cross utilized agent.

Infantry Soldier Josh M.

Josh, a cross utilized agent in Prescott, Arizona (PRC), joined the U.S. Army Infantry in 2007. He was stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska and served one combat tour in the Diyala province of Iraq, serving as a grenadier and radio telephone operator (RTO). His bravery and dedication were recognized with the Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal.

In 2010, Josh used the G.I. Bill, a program created to help finance school or training for American military veterans, to become an English teacher. After eight years in public education, he transitioned to aviation.

Josh is currently utilizing the Vocational Readiness and Employment program from Veteran Affairs to complete his master’s degree in aviation safety at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He joined SkyWest in July.

“Upon finishing my degree, I would love to advance my career with SkyWest and serve in a safety role,” he said.

As we observe Veterans Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to Neal, Josh and all of our SkyWest Veterans for their sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the United States and the many freedoms we enjoy.

Thank you for your service and happy Veterans Day.

Nov 01

Celebrating Native American Heritage Month

November is Native American Heritage Month and SkyWest is proud to recognize our people and their varied backgrounds and cultures. Watch for stories throughout the month featuring some of our people, including Penny M., parts manager in South Bend, who is part of the Lumbee tribe of North Carolina, and DEN-based First Officer Maria M. who is part of the Leach Lake band of Ojibwe tribe in Minnesota.

Penny M. – SBN Parts Manager

For SkyWest Parts Manager Penny, being Native American is something that she is proud of and holds close to her heart. She is a member of the Lumbee tribe, made up of tribal nations from the Algonquian, Iroquoian, and Siouan language families, including the Hatteras, the Tuscarora, and the Cheraw. Recognized as Indian in 1885 by the State of North Carolina, the Lumbee continue working to educate others about their right to be federally recognized, a movement that Penny holds dear to her heart.

Growing up in Michigan and far from her tribe in North Carolina, Penny credits her father for the knowledge and appreciation she has for her heritage and culture.

“I have a lot of pride in my heritage,” she said. “I’ve always been interested in learning more about my culture since I was 11 years old, and my dad instilled in me a love of where I came from and who my tribe was. Just ask my family, I’m the go-to person for tribal information and family history.”

Before coming to SkyWest, Penny worked as a JCPenney corporate manager for 20 years. There she gained experience working with teams and helping showcase the value of recognizing diversity and fairness. In 2022, a family member convinced Penny to take a break from retirement and join the SkyWest team where she has seen how our diversity has helped us be successful.

“I’m grateful that SkyWest gives us opportunities to share our stories with each other,” she said. “It shows that we can have different backgrounds and share with each other the best parts of ourselves. I think this is why my team has been so great to work with and for me to lead. We all understand each other and have learned from each other’s stories.”

Penny is devoted to sharing her heritage with her family members too. She’s been able to fly with her grandchildren to attend powwows and cultural celebrations along the Lumbee River in North Carolina, where her tribe originated. She also visits local tribe festivals where she can connect with other Native Americans and learn more about their history.

Penny’s favorite part of this month, “Recognizing each other!”

“My native heritage has helped me immensely in my career and has brought my family closer,” said Penny. “I love being able to share that with others and to learn more from their stories. Not only does this recognition help us become more aware as humankind but it’s a freedom that we can all learn from.”

Maria M. – DEN First Officer

Denver-based CRJ First Officer Maria has always wanted to become an airline pilot. As she was training and flying with mentors, she learned about SkyWest and knew the airline is exactly what she was looking for.

“What really piqued my interest was the culture of SkyWest that I had always heard about,” she said. “Whether it was the Pilot Pathway Program, an interview, or at my instructing job, people would mention SkyWest. They convinced me it was the best learning and working environment out there.”

Maria joined the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program in 2021 and she recently completed her first flight as a first officer.

“Once I got to my first day of training, I knew I had made the right choice,” she said. “Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful and I’m happy I made the decision to continue my career with SkyWest.”

Maria is proud to be celebrating her Native American heritage throughout the month and is excited for others to recognize and connect with her great culture. She is a member of the Leach Lake band of Ojibwe tribe in Minnesota, a tribe known for their preservation of heritage.

“It is important to recognize Native American Heritage Month because it makes people feel more comfortable and welcome, especially in their workplace,” she said. “Being able to share my story is so encouraging and ensures that representation for the culture and community stays alive.”

Maintaining her connection to her heritage is very important for Maria. She celebrates her culture by spending time with family, sharing experiences, and attending various traditional events. Maria’s advice for those wanting to recognize this month is to support indigenous artists!

Oct 06

Cancer Awareness: Hope and Support

Whether you are a survivor, advocate, community organizer or co-survivor, cancer affects all of us. Throughout October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month we will be sharing the stories of SkyWest people and their battles against cancer in its various forms.

Flight Attendant Jaime R. and Captain Ricky M. have both faced the challenge of a cancer diagnosis and are still fighting the ongoing battles of treatment and recovery. Their unique journeys serve as powerful examples of how resilience and unwavering determination have enabled them to conquer adversities.

Jaime R. – DEN Flight Attendant

After years of preventive care, regular exams at home and with her doctor, and no familial history of cancer, Jaime was surprised when she was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) earlier this year. At age 46 she began her new life of tests, never ending appointments, and what seemed like endless treatments.

“I always thought because I was doing the right things, I don’t smoke, I eat clean, only glassware for drinks, regular exercise, and natural deodorant, that I would prevent cancer,” she said. “I did several at-home checks and with my doctor and felt confident of being cancer free. The only way that the cancer was detected was through a mammogram, a free test that can be done for anyone. Something that I found too uncomfortable and had put off.”

After a pathology report determined that Jaime had four tumors, the largest at 15mm, and large amounts of Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), her doctors gave her the options to begin her battle against cancer. She underwent a seven-hour bi-lateral double mastectomy with a direct implant reconstruction. Her weekly chemo sessions begin this weekend for the aggressive cancer, and an additional year of infusion treatments to come.

“I found out that I’ve had this cancer inside of me for a long time,” she said. “I still have a small amount DCIS they couldn’t get, and I’m hopeful the chemo gets it.”

For Jaime, prioritizing herself and well-being has become more important since her diagnosis.

“Many of us think we’re too busy and that our work schedules, children, and homes are a priority over our own,” she said. “We barely make time for ourselves, and our self-care is in the back seat. I was no different. Between three kids and two jobs, I neglected myself. Do not wait on self-care, it matters.”

For anyone with questions about breast cancer, Jaime offers this advice, “Get a mammogram by 35 for a good baseline. A FREE yearly screening is all it took and could have made all the diﬀerence for me. You matter, your life matters. Make yourself a priority!”

Captain Ricky M. – LAX ERJ Captain

For Captain Ricky M., the month of October is more than his battle with cancer but a great time to reflect on what others are going through.

“This month makes me appreciate all the great things I’ve experienced in my life and the dark times I survived.,” he said.

As a kid, Captain M. had always wanted to be a pilot. When he was 18 years old, he signed up at his nearest flight school and worked hard to become an airline pilot. In 2003 he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent multiple surgeries, treatments, and reconstruction surgeries. He started chemo the next year, and only two months later joined the SkyWest team.

“I’ve learned the greatest lessons since my diagnosis,” said Captain M. “I’m living my dream, and nothing can stop that. No one can tell me that I can’t do what I love, which is flying airplanes for the best company. I’ve been doing this for almost 20 years, and I’ve still got a long way to go! Having cancer didn’t stop my dream and I don’t see it stopping me anytime soon.”

Captain M. has since flown the EMB, CRJ, and E175. He’s held several positions throughout his almost 20 years at SkyWest as a Captain on various aircraft and a line check airman. He’s also seen a lot of support from coworkers throughout his battle, including those who have supported him through the SkyWest’s internal employee programs.

His advice for those battling cancer: “People will be hesitant to tell you the truth about cancer, ask them to be brutally honest. Having cancer is the scariest thing that you’ll go through, please hold tight to your loved ones, and rely on the systems of support that you have. Finally, do not watch crime movies or dark TV shows, the best medicine is slapstick comedy and cartoons, trust me.”

Screening tests can also help find cancer early, significantly increasing the survival rate of those diagnosed with cancer. Ensure you and your loved ones are having regular screenings. One excellent option is to use United Healthcare’s preventive care checklist tool to see what exams you might expect at your next checkup.

SkyWest supports the fight against cancer and knowing you’re not alone is an important way we can support each other.

Aug 09

SkyWest Culture: Casting a Line for Connections

It all started back in 2015 when a group of SkyWest mechanics in Colorado Springs decided to put their passion and skills for fishing to the test through a friendly competition. The idea took off, and the first fishing tournament resulted in an unforgettable event filled with laughter, fishing tales, and the thrill of the catch. After just one year they were hooked, and that initial group vowed to make it an annual affair. Now, nine years later, it has now evolved to include employees from other SkyWest teams, their families, and continues to provide opportunities for camaraderie, connection, and giving back.

“We not only compete for the biggest catch but also compete in acts of kindness and generosity, giving back to our community and supporting charitable causes,” said Bruce Chang, SkyWest maintenance training instructor.

Bruce was one of the first to put the idea of a fishing tournament together. He says its uniqueness lies not only in the friendship it fosters among the SkyWest employees but also in the culture of giving that surrounds the event.

To participate, individuals from any SkyWest team or location pay an entrance fee with proceeds going towards prizes or being donated to organizations like Trout Unlimited. Prizes have also been donated by colleagues and fishing companies. These have included fishing gear and accessories, along with SkyWest apparel and merchandise, with the goal of being able to provide a prize to every child who participates in the tournament. This approach has helped foster a sense of belonging and strengthen connections within the SkyWest team.

“Beyond the thrill of the competition, our fishing tournaments are opportunities for families and friends to create memories and strengthen the bonds that keep us connected,” said Bruce.

The fishing tournaments have also acted as a catalyst for forming new friendships and acquaintances within the company. Newcomers are always welcome, and their participation enriches the event’s atmosphere and dynamics as employees from different departments can connect over their shared hobby.

“For nine years running, our fishing tournaments have been a testament to our commitment to fostering unity within SkyWest,” said Bruce. “As we look to the future, we hope to expand and share this wonderful tradition with even more participants.”

More than just a competition, the tournament promotes teamwork, belonging, and generosity. Each year, participants eagerly await the tournament, ready to cast their lines, create new stories, and strengthen the bonds of friendship and family.

Ready to join a company with great culture? Go to www.skywest.com/careers to get started on an application today!

Jul 14

SkyWest Recognized as an Outstanding Navy Reserve Employer

SkyWest representatives receive Navy Reserve award

SkyWest was recently recognized by the U.S. Navy as one of America’s outstanding Navy Reserve employers. We were nominated for the award by a current SkyWest employee for the support we provide to Veterans and reservists.

“We honor and recognize the many employers who support our Citizen Sailors, who are often called upon to leave their families and civilian jobs on short notice,” said Vice Adm. John B. Mustin, Chief of Navy Reserve and Commander, Navy Reserve Force.

SkyWest Chief Pilot Makenzie Meek and Assistant Chief Pilot Jorge Yepiz attended the Navy Employer Recognition Event in San Diego and accepted the award on behalf of SkyWest.

SkyWest is home to nearly 1,500 men and women who have or are still serving in the U.S. armed forces. We are proud of their service and look forward to seeing even more bring their incredible skills to our team in the future. SkyWest provides military pilots who have a DD214 form a $7,500 bonus, and we offer a Rotor Transition Program (RTP) for military rotor pilots to enter the commercial aviation industry. Through this program, pilots begin accruing company seniority, receive an enhanced introduction to SkyWest, have access to mentors and interview prep, and are eligible for up to $25,000 in bonuses and tuition reimbursement.

Jun 17

Happy Father’s Day

Lexi K. – CRJ First Officer (SLC)

“My dad has been my inspiration to fly since I was a little girl. My brother and I both chose to become pilots because of him, and we were lucky enough to be trained by him and fly together here at SkyWest.

“Growing up with my dad’s flight privileges is the reason I enjoyed traveling, but I didn’t know that I wanted to become a pilot. I even attended college to study another major and it wasn’t until I almost completed my bachelor’s degree that I finally took a discovery flight and realized that I needed to be in the skies. Joining SkyWest and being able to train with my family and eventually work in the flight deck with my dad has been really cool. Flying with my dad gets me really excited for my future in aviation and inspires me to do as much as I can with my career.”

Gabbie S. – Flight Attendant (ORD)

“Happy Father’s Day to the most impeccable person I know, my dad Cllr. S. He’s done and continues to do so much for my siblings and I, and we’ll never be able to fully share with the world his greatness.

“My dad put his law career on hold to move us out of Liberia, a war-torn country at the time, to America so that we could have a better life. I will forever cherish the sacrifices he made for my family. His determination to create a better life for us, and for those around him is reflected in the current work he does as a one of Liberia’s top lawyers. My dad inspires me to do better, and to become the best person that I can be. He’s taught me to help and care for the ones I love.

“Dad, I love you past the stars and back, you will always and forever be my superhero. I love you papa.”

Happy Father’s Day to all our SkyWest dads and to the fathers who helped inspire us to follow our passion to be part of the aviation industry!

May 30

AAPI: A Journey Through Culture

SkyWest is home to incredible people. As we wrap Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we’ve enjoyed sharing the stories of our team members. This includes people like Tala Maluia-Zepeda, a SkyWest flight attendant in San Diego, California.

For Tautalafua Maluia – Zepeda, or Tala as everyone calls her, this month is more than just a celebration for her. It’s a chance to showcase her pride for her people’s contributions to society, a connection of her identity with her ancestors, and a time of remembrance of the culture and heritage that is deeply rooted into her life and family.

“It’s important that we recognize this month for what it is,” said Tala. “Remembering our roots and the path that our ancestors traveled. We are people of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia who have traveled thousands of miles from home, to work and secure a better life for our families. Our people are strong because we continue to embrace our culture while adapting to changes and becoming acclimated to new surroundings. Knowing this helps me pave a way through the many obstacles in my journey, and my life.”

Born and raised in American Samoa, a South Pacific Island with a population of 25,000 people in the 1970s, Tala grew up surrounded by her culture and a tight-nit family.

“Samoans are very proud of their culture and family traditions because we are taught from a very young age to always put God first, ‘Samoa muamua le Atua,’” she said. “Our ancestors instilled in us the importance of starting and ending your day with prayer, respecting your elders, saying excuse me ‘tulou,’ lowering your head every time you walk past others while they are engaged in a conversation, and saying please ‘fa’amolemole’ and thank you ‘fa’afetai’ when you ask and receive something.”

Tala was raised to speak Samoan for most of her childhood but quickly learned English from her cousins who visited from the United States. This helped her as she attended elementary school, high school, and then gained acceptance into the only community college in American Samoa at the time. She credits her parents and her upbringing in her culture as things that led to the opportunities she has today.

“I was working a job as a credit analyst in Hawaii when I joined my sister at the airport for Wackenhut Security monitoring and checking carry-on bags for passengers boarding flights,” said Tala. “This was my first taste of a career in the industry and I quickly gained the skills to keep up in the ever-changing world of aviation customer service.”

She later moved to San Diego, California in the late 80s and began work for Rohr Industries, one of the biggest aerospace manufacturing companies.

“I worked another job during my time with Rohr Industries, but this is where I truly developed a love for aviation and for the details that go into manufacturing an aircraft,” said Tala. “I worked in various departments where I was involved in the research and development of the 787 aircraft, coordinated movement of raw materials, and where I provided support to quality control, warehouse management and aftermarket services.”

Tala later joined the Department of Defense as a supply systems analyst contractor at the U.S. Naval Base 32nd San Diego, California. She was offered an overseas position to assist in the startup of DDKS (Defense Distribution Depot Kuwait, Southwest Asia). This is where she was able to overcome her fear of flying as she was now traveling thousands of miles away from home to work. She lived and worked in Kuwait for three years before returning home to the United States.

“As soon as I got home, I started looking for airline jobs,” said Tala. “I knew that I needed to be in aviation, and after hours of interviewing and research, I knew that I was meant to be with SkyWest.”

Tala calls her time at SkyWest “amazing and adventurous.” She has enjoyed the travel privileges that have given her the opportunity to visit different places and, most importantly, re-connect with her family for important events.

“I am always proud to see Pacific Islanders throughout the system,” said Tala. “The first thing I ask them is, are you a pacific islander? And what island are you from? I am fluent in the Samoan language so l enjoy conversating with them if they speak the language too. It always makes me happy to connect with the many different faces of the islands.”