Tag Archives: Colorado Springs

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!

SkyWest Fantasy Flight Flies Children to The North Pole!


For the 13th year running, SkyWest Airlines flew a group of children to “the North Pole” as part of the annual Fantasy Flight at Colorado Springs Airport! Together with the Junior League of Colorado Springs (JLCS) and CPCD…giving children a head start, SkyWest welcomed nearly 30 children and their families to enjoy a night full of magic, joy and laughter.

Those in attendance were able to participate in a number of activities, including ornament making, dinner, playing with the Go Team Therapy Crisis Airport Dogs, and of course, flying on a CRJ700 to the North Pole.

While in the air, the SkyWest crews prepared the children for their magical destination by playing games and singing Christmas carols across the night sky.

“I’m just so proud to be a member of the SkyWest team,” offered Captain Richard Lucci. “It’s an honor for me to fly.”

Once on the ground, the children were met by Jolly Old Saint Nicholas and Mrs. Claus, and cheers of delight filled the air as they walked up the jet bridge to the fully decorated terminal of the Colorado Springs Airport.

Each child then had the chance to sit on Santa’s lap and was presented with a bag full of toys picked specifically for them—the perfect ending to an unforgettable night.

“One of the reasons why I came to SkyWest is because they are so involved with the community,” said First Officer Kirksey Hagan. “Getting to be a part of SkyWest and the opportunity to open our ‘new route’ to the North Pole means the world to me and shows that SkyWest does a whole lot for the kids in the community.”

Many thanks to all of the SkyWest teams who helped make the event possible through countless hours of coordination and expertise.

Interested in working for a company that makes a positive difference in the community? Click here to see career opportunities at SkyWest.