This Black History Month, SkyWest is honored to recognize the Black men and women who help to make our airline the best in the industry.
Throughout February, we will be featuring stories and updates from our own SkyWest employees.
Mike M. – MX Admin, SBN
Mike began his SkyWest journey over four years ago. He came here from another airline where he had been working in aviation maintenance. Mike says he was initially nervous to begin a new career at a new company but had only heard great things about SkyWest.
“I’ve been in aviation for a little over eight years now and SkyWest has been the place I’ve enjoyed the most,” he said. “It’s the welcoming atmosphere towards all people of cultures and backgrounds that makes it different from other jobs. SkyWest has been very welcoming from the beginning and my time here has been filled with great memories and some of the kindest people I’ve met.”
Thinking about Black History Month, Mike says he is inspired by Ruby Ridges. She is an American civil rights activist who was the first Black child to attend a formerly segregated elementary school in Louisiana during the New Orleans school desegregation crisis on Nov. 14, 1960.
“Black history month for me is a time to reflect on how far we’ve come as a society,” he said. “Ruby’s experience has shown me that if we can learn to embrace our differences, regardless of the noise around us, the sky can truly be the limit on what can be achieved.”
Myah D. – Flight Attendant, PHX
For Myah, Black History Month is a celebration of Black culture and an opportunity to for everyone to learn more about Black History. It’s also a chance to recognize the remarkable journey of the Black community.
Growing up as one of the few Black students in her school, Myah struggled with self-consciousness, always feeling the need to prove herself. This struggle persisted even after completing school, and until she decided to break away from her work-from-home routine.
“I felt like there was more, so I started job hunting,” she said. “My search led me to apply as a cabin agent/cleaner for Alaska Airlines. It was in this job, that I was introduced to the world of aviation: gate agents, ground personnel, and flight attendants.”
A newcomer to aviation, Myah grew up with a fear of flying. Mostly due to her limited experience of flying, her perception slowly shifted during her shifts, witnessing professional flight attendants she interacted with. Despite initial reservations about her suitability for the job, the sight of Black flight attendants and pilots inspired her to apply. Walking into the SkyWest group interview, she felt a sense of belonging.
“Watching flight crews and getting to interact with them made me realize that becoming a flight attendant was my dream,” she said. “I was nervous about how young I was and if I was experienced enough in the industry. When I saw Black crewmembers, I felt so much pride and knew that I needed to apply.”
Contrary to her earlier assumptions, the airline industry, particularly SkyWest, proved to be more diverse than Myah anticipated. While the journey wasn’t without challenges, she is grateful she has been able to secure her dream job of becoming a flight attendant.
“I am so proud to be a SkyWest flight attendant, and I hope anyone who thinks that their dreams are out of reach will one day just go for it like I did,” she said.
Myah encourages everyone to pursue their aspirations, emphasizing that representation matters. This month in particular, Myah wishes everyone a joyful celebration, hopeful for a future where dreams are within reach for all.