Tag Archives: SkyWest

Nov 07

Helping Teens Build Airplanes

Wyatt S., a Tucson-based mechanic, joined SkyWest in March 2023 but he has been “obsessed” with airplanes since he was a kid. At 16 he drove an old truck that required a bit of work to keep it running. Wyatt became fond of taking things apart, fixing them up, and working with his hands. So, when he found the Southern Arizona Teen Aviation program, he was able to combine his love for fixing things and aviation by building an airplane.

The project introduced Wyatt to many things including wiring, working with sheet metal and fiber glass, people skills, tool organization, following instructions, and procedures. He also learned all about making mistakes: everyone makes them and how to move forward. Through it all, Wyatt worked on the first two planes that were built by teenagers in the program and was able to help sign them off as airworthy.

“I was there for that approval,” Wyatt said. “Seeing both of those airplanes fly for the first time was awesome.”

After graduating high school, Wyatt completed the Aviation Maintenance program at Pima Community College before joining SkyWest.

“SkyWest was hiring, and everything went smoothly,” he said, knowing he was in the right place. “Once I got in, it was all just awesome.”

His contributions and hard work at SkyWest have also been appreciated by his team in TUS.

“Wyatt is a great mechanic!” said James H., TUS manager of maintenance.

Wyatt credits Southern Arizona Teen Aviation for where he is now.

“I am out of school, I make good money, and I love my job,” he shared. “Not many people can say that.”

So, when the program offered Wyatt the chance to return as a mentor, he jumped on the opportunity.

“I thought about how good it was for me and now I wanted to help the program and the students as they figure out what they want to do and how to pursue it,” he added.

Now, nearly every Monday, Wyatt meets with fellow mentors to plan what the students will work on for the day, preparing instructions and materials. Once the kids arrive, he oversees them, letting them figure things out and offering guidance and answering questions when needed.

He also continually encourages anyone interested in aviation to get involved in similar programs.

“It’s a very valuable learning experience,” Wyatt said. “Go to camps and experiences and find whatever entry level programs that you can. If you can’t find any, go find someone and just talk to them. Everybody in aviation, for the most part, was helped by someone to get where they are. So they are very willing to help you reach your goals.”

Inspired by Wyatt’s journey? SkyWest is looking for passionate individuals to join our maintenance team. Apply today and start your aviation career!

Oct 04

Hispanic Heritage Month: Cultural Influences

As we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we are excited to highlight Mechanics Leonardo and Horacio who recently shared their thoughts on how their culture has influenced their careers.

Leonardo, MX II (MKE)
Leonardo joined SkyWest’s maintenance team in Milwaukee because he wanted to be at a company he respected and that would allow him to grow in his career.

“I come from two Mexican migrant parents,” he shared. “My father came here at 16 and later met my mom while working at a local tannery. They always assured me that success will not be determined by my heritage and reminded me that perseverance will always be in my blood. That’s been true to this day.”

Leonardo enjoys incorporating Mexican, American, and Puerto Rican traditions into everyday life. From holidays with family to the food on their plates, his heritage touches all aspects of his life, and it started with his family.

He says that recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it helps to promote an open mind, which builds more teamwork with those around him.

“In a work environment that is crucial,” he said.

Horacio, MX Fleet Service (PSP)
Horacio didn’t originally expect to work at SkyWest seven years ago but he knew he wanted to be part of the aviation industry. With that goal in mind, he stopped by the maintenance hangar in Palm Springs and was immediately impressed with the team he met.

“Thanks to God and the manager Cesar V.,” he said. “I was given this opportunity and the confidence to work for SkyWest Airlines. Since then, my loyalty to SkyWest remains to this day.”

During his time at SkyWest, Horacio has learned a lot about aviation and knows he made the right choice in joining the industry. He’s also been grateful for the support he has felt in in sharing his background and culture with his team.

“Showcasing the achievements of Hispanic culture can help younger generations set and achieve their future goals,” he emphasized.

Celebrating his Mexican culture is something Horacio cherishes deeply and something he does in various ways, characterized by happiness and a strong sense of family unity. Traditions such as Day of the Dead; Mexican Independence Day; and traditional food, dances, and music are integral parts of these celebrations.

“Although different, many Hispanic traditions share customs and can help people identify themselves with other Hispanics,” he said.

One of Horacio’s fondest memories is the tradition of posadas in December. An event that takes place over nine nights in December and is organized by neighbors to commemorate the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary before Jesus was born.

“Along with everyone in the neighborhood, we make a tour with candles and ask for lodging in the houses,” he said. “Piñatas are broken, filled with fruit like oranges, cane, jicama, and tejocote (little apple). We receive a bag called ‘Aguinaldo,’ filled with animal crackers, candy, and peanuts. We drink fruit punch and socialize with everyone who attends this event.”

Horacio believes that by sharing these memories, he can help keep his culture and traditions alive and celebrated.

Thank you, Leonardo and Horacio, for sharing your stories with us. We are fortunate for the influence and difference you have made on our SkyWest team!

Oct 01

Cancer Awareness: Serving with a Purpose

Whether you are a survivor, advocate, community organizer, or co-survivor, cancer touches us all. This October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will share the inspiring stories and events of the SkyWest people who are actively fighting cancer of all types in their communities.

Recently, our SBN Maintenance team participated in a charity golf event to support women battling cancer.

The sunny weather, coupled with the enthusiasm of the participants, created a perfect atmosphere for a day of fun and giving back to a nonprofit organization called Hello Gorgeous. This foundation offers professional makeovers to women who are undergoing cancer treatment, so that they can feel confident and beautiful again.

“I have supported this organization for over 15 years,” Manager of Parts Penny M. said. “As a former cosmetologist, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact it has on women to lose their hair during treatment. Seeing the smile on someone’s face after being given a full makeover is priceless.”

Penny is deeply passionate about helping women in their fight against cancer, as she has seen the lasting effects the disease has had on many of her friends and family.

“I volunteer for all the events that are held locally,” Penny explains. “My favorite part of the golf event is to see so many men participate. It helps them to not feel so helpless when their wife, mother, sister, or daughter is diagnosed with cancer. Supporting an organization like this makes them feel like they are making a difference.”

The golf course provided an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. As members of the MX team made their way through the course, they were greeted with various on-course activities, like a longest-drive contest and closest-to-the-pin challenge that added an extra element of team building to the day.

“I am so proud to have some of my SBN MX team join me in supporting women battling cancer,” Penny said. “A special thank you to Brian W., Ryan P., Joey R., and Zachary M., who gave generously of their time and money to help a great cause.”

Sep 15

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Sept. 15 marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month and SkyWest is honored to recognize and celebrate the month by featuring updates from employees across the operation who share their thoughts about what this month means to them.

Read on to hear what Hector T., SFO-based E175 first officer, and Vicente G.P., OKC lead mechanic, say about their personal journeys and how they honor their heritage while contributing to the world of aviation.

Hector T., E175 FO (SFO)

Hector T.s’ transition from the IT industry to the flight deck embodies the spirit of pursuing one’s dreams. After spending 23 years in IT, with the last decade in management roles, Hector decided to follow his childhood passion for flying. His dream was realized just a few months ago when he became a SkyWest pilot.

“After consulting with current and previous SkyWest pilots, it was evident that SkyWest was my first choice,” Hector said. “It is the best regional airline in the industry, with a strong record and performance.”

For Hector, recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month is an important celebration of diversity and an opportunity to spotlight the contributions of the Hispanic community to aviation.

“Diversity should be celebrated,” Hector said. “It’s a chance for others to learn about our cultures and promote the field of aviation.”

Hector moved from Puerto Rico to San Diego in 1989, where he continues to live today with his family, and has worked to ensure his heritage continues to play a significant role in his life. He fondly recalls “Las Fiestas Patronales,” a series of local festivals where communities gather to celebrate Puerto Rican culture with food, music, and pageants. These festivals offer a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of Puerto Rico.

Vicente G.P., Lead Mechanic Crew (OKC)

Vicente’s path to SkyWest is rooted in a commitment to excellence and a desire to work with a great team. He chose SkyWest thanks to our reputation in supporting and developing its employees.

“I wanted to work somewhere I could use my skills as an aircraft mechanic and be part of a team that values safety and innovation,” he said.

For Vicente, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect on and share the rich cultural legacy of Hispanic communities.

“It’s important to celebrate and honor our history,” he said. “It helps everyone understand and appreciate our backgrounds.”

One story Vicente likes to share with his friends is when he and his family moved from Durango, Mexico to Artesia, New Mexico. The move marked a significant shift and was only possible thanks to the resilience and dedication of his family.

“Their journey has taught me the value of hard work and staying true to our heritage,” he reflects.

Vicente also works to keep his culture alive through traditional practices, such as enjoying Mexican food and participating in cultural events. Family is central to his celebrations, and he emphasizes the importance of maintaining customs that connect him to his heritage.

As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, the stories of Hector and Vicente remind us of the diverse backgrounds and experiences that contribute to making SkyWest the best in our industry.

Jun 29

SkyWest Teams Give Back to Local Communities

Since 1972, SkyWest people have been known for providing exceptional service in the skies and in the communities where we live and work. As SkyWest celebrates 52 years of flying this month, that commitment to giving back to the community has been on full display with our people volunteering at various food banks across the U.S.

“What a wonderful experience and opportunity we had to serve and give back to our community,” said Boise Domicile Support Specialist Bekah W. “St. Vincent’s de Paul in Boise reaches a multitude of families weekly within the Treasure Valley and it was fantastic to be a part of helping.“

Team members in Salt Lake, Denver, Los Angeles, Boise, Chicago, Phoenix, and St. George, Utah worked together to sort and pack thousands of pounds of food donations and to assemble thousands of food kits that were then shipped to families in need. While the fight against hunger remains an ongoing battle, the efforts of those who volunteered helped to ease the burdens of many families who do not always know where their next meal will come from.

“Witnessing everyone come together for such a meaningful cause was truly inspiring,” said Chicago Domicile Support Specialist Tony G. “Together we packed 901 boxes of shelf-stable food for the elderly. I’m looking forward to the next time when hopefully we can reach 1,000 boxes!”

This initiative not only benefitted the food banks in managing their operations but also gave team members a sense of joy and fulfillment through their service.

“I really enjoyed my experience at the food bank,” said Katie H., a Human Resource coordinator at SkyWest HDQ. “It was fun to interact with coworkers outside of work while we helped with a good cause. I would love to do it again!”

SkyWest Airlines is proud to partner with organizations like food banks and other non-profit groups that provide vital support to our local communities. A special thank you to those who participated in these opportunities and the countless others who continue to go above and beyond to serve and give back.

If you are looking to be part of a team that values exceptional service and giving back to your community visit our Careers page and check out the current openings here at SkyWest!

Jun 16

Happy Father’s Day

Happy Father’s Day to all our SkyWest dads and to the fathers who encouraged us to follow our dreams! Here’s what a few SkyWest people had to say about the dads in their lives in honor of Father’s Day.

Kalley G., ERJ First Officer (MSP)

“Happy Father’s Day, Dad! I’m incredibly thankful to have you in my life and to enjoy our love for aviation together! I wouldn’t be the person I am today without both you and Mom! Sending love to you both!”

Tom T., Agt Ramp (SGU)

“My dad is still with us and l continue to learn from him. He is now a great-grandfather and is very involved with his family. I have fond memories of herding sheep with him as a kid. He taught me to work hard and to always have a positive attitude. I’ve rarely heard him complain. He is a great example to us!”

Wes T., Agt Ramp (SGU)

“My favorite trait of my dad is his ability to get along with absolutely everyone. You give him a few minutes with a stranger, and they will be friends in no time at all. He’s always been more on the laid-back side but still we always knew he was in charge; I feel like I have learned to teach my kids the life lessons they need in a similar type of way.

“We’ve also had a few adventures along the way. This photo was taken in Maui, Hawaii when I went with my parents to a work retreat. It was a long time ago but was a fun trip. Another time, my dad was out of town for work in Portland Oregon, and he called me to meet him at a great barbecue restaurant he stumbled upon. I had a couple of days off, so I was able join him. We drove to the restaurant and arrived at a little hole in the wall barbecue restaurant. As soon as we entered people were amazed to see that we found the place. I was wondering the same thing at the time, but the food was amazing, and we had a great time.”

Amber O., InFlight Support Center (SLC)

“I first met Keith in my earlier years at SkyWest when I was working on the ramp, and he was in maintenance. He was always fun to crack jokes with. Later, he married my mom, and he immediately loved all of us like we were his own. Keith, your love for my family is genuine, and I am so grateful for that. You are always there to lend a hand and share a good joke. I love going on our long walks and having our deep chats; they are truly the highlight of my day. Happy Father’s Day!”

Jun 01

Happy Pride Month!

June is Pride Month and SkyWest is honored to recognize our people! This month, we will be sharing stories from across the system highlighting some of those who make us the best regional airline in the industry.

Cross Utilized Agent Jamie K. joined SkyWest in 2021 at Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport (MQT). It was there that she found not only a career she loves, but also the woman who is now her wife.

While working on the ramp, Jamie met Anania T., a previous SkyWest cross utilized agent. With a shared passion for aviation, it didn’t take long for love to take flight and two years later, they got married on the same Delta ramp.

For them, Pride Month is all about love.

“Pride month, to me, provides an opportunity for everyone to get some additional exposure to LGBTQIA2S+ lives and love,” Jamie shared. “It can provide people with visuals and stories that help normalize our lives, and bring us from the margins to the center, in the hopes of the general population gaining more empathy and understanding.”

“All love is good,” Anania added. “Love is love and love is good.”

In general, being part of the LGBTQ+ community is being yourself and being accepted for that.

“You can be your true self,” Anania said. “It is all okay. There is nothing wrong with or abnormal about you. If you follow your heart and are the path to finding love, everything will work out. Be true to who you are and everything will work out.”

At SkyWest, the couple says they “have had nothing but positive and respectful experiences.” Their manager even went out of their way to figure out how to have their ceremony on the ramp and a coworker marshalled them down to say their vows.

The couple is now soaring to new heights in their career: Anania is pursuing her private pilot’s license and Jamie is considering joining a maintenance program. They also have dreams of bush flying in Alaska and spending their free time in Hawaii.

SkyWest is proud to celebrate Pride Month and share the stories of our people.

Click here to share your own Pride Month story.

Feb 29

Black History Month: Living My Lifelong Dream

Throughout the month we’ve heard incredible stories from SkyWest people about their journeys to aviation and how their culture has influenced their careers. Before Black History Month ends, we want to highlight the experience of MSP-based First Officer Ryan B., an aviation pioneer for his family and community.

Ryan B. – First Officer CRJ

CRJ First Officer Ryan is proud to be a Black aviator and even prouder to be the first in his family to achieve this milestone.

“Being an airline pilot is something that I wanted to do since I was a kid,” said Ryan. “I did not think it would be possible for a person like me to achieve their dream. It took me sitting in an accounting class and watching planes fly into the Chicago O’Hare Airport to make the switch.”

Realizing he couldn’t continue doing something he didn’t love, Ryan took a chance on his aviation dreams. His pilot journey began in 2017 at Purdue University; continued through instructing in White Plains, New York; and finally obtaining his Airline Transport Pilot license in Salt Lake City, Utah. He joined the SkyWest team in 2021, accomplishing his childhood dream of becoming an airline pilot.

“SkyWest has given me the opportunity to live my lifelong dream,” said Ryan. “Some of the best moments for me here at SkyWest are when a passenger or a ramp worker tells me how happy they are to see someone like them in the flight deck. Not only does it inspire them to achieve greatness, but it inspires me to work harder towards my goal of being a Captain at one of our major airlines.”

For Ryan, Black History Month means taking advantage of all the opportunities life presents and making something spectacular with it. He credits the unwavering support of his family, friends, and colleagues at SkyWest, without whom his achievements wouldn’t have been possible.

Keep Reading

Throughout the month, we’ve also celebrated the remarkable achievements of individuals like Maintenance Admin Mike M. and Flight Attendant Myah D., whose unwavering resolve exemplifies the boundless potential within us all.

Additionally, we highlighted First Officer Kamia B. and Flight Attendant TK S., whose diverse backgrounds and personal journeys fuel their dedication to community service and volunteerism.

Feb 01

February is Black History Month

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.