Tag Archives: SkyWest Airlines

Nov 30

A Tribute to Native American Heritage Month

Throughout November we’ve been celebrating Native American Heritage Month by sharing the stories of some of our incredible people. Read on to hear how their background and culture has impacted these SkyWest employees.

Anna G. – First Officer, SFO

Anna is a member of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. Her tribe wasn’t federally recognized until 1994, a significant milestone that came after years of persistent advocacy and effort.

Anna takes pride in knowing that her grandmother played a pivotal role in the journey to Federal recognition. She testified in front of Congress, passionately advocating for the tribe’s recognition. Her courage and dedication were instrumental in securing the rights that the tribe now holds.

For Anna, her grandmother’s legacy is a source of motivation. She believes it is important to highlight the rich history and ongoing contributions of Native American communities.

“A tradition in my culture is to receive an eagle feather to recognize our success,” Anna said. “I’ve received feathers for many of my accomplishments including graduations, finishing flight school, and completing training with SkyWest.”

Each feather she has received serves as a tangible reminder of her hard work and helps her hold her heritage close. Symbolizing the support from her community, who helped her achieve her dreams.

Anna’s passion for aviation began in highschool. Her mother, who was a flight attendant for a short time, had many friends with airplanes and one of them took Anna on her first flight in a Cessna 182.

“I have been hooked ever since,” Anna said. “I knew I wanted to pursue a career in aviation.”

Anna was drawn to SkyWest because of it’s reputation for job security and it’s exceptional safety record. The assurance of stability and the company’s commitment to maintaining high safety standards provided her with the confidence that she was making the right choice for her aviation career.

“I’m happy to represent my tribe as a SkyWest pilot,” Anna explained. “And I’m proud to be a part of a company that celebrates me.”

Shelby A. – Agt. Cross Utilized, RIW

As a proud member of the Dena’ina Athabascan tribe, Shelby believes she naturally gravitated towards the aviation industry because of the integral role it played in her daily life. Growing up in Nondalton, Alaska, aviation was essential to connecting remote communities with essential services.

“Flying serves as the primary source of transportation for all of Alaska,” Shelby said. “So it has become a prominent staple of who I am. I was welcomed into the business by SkyWest Airlines in Riverton about five years ago now, and I am excited to contribute for many more years to come.”

For Shelby, honoring her heritage is a communal experience. She chooses to celebrate with her fellow tribesmen through various cultural activities that reinforce their connection to their ancestors and traditions.

These activities include gatherings where they come together to share stories, songs, dances, and traditional cuisine that have been passed down through generations. These practices are not only a way to preserve their cultural heritage but also to educate others about the legacy of their people.

Camillo A. – First Officer ERJ, SEA

Growing up on the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Camillo was often captivated by the sight of planes from a nearby flight school flying over his community and he enjoyed watching the pilots practice their maneuvers.

“I realized then that a career in aviation had to be the coolest job in the world,” Camillo said. “That’s what inspired me to pursue flying.”

Camillo decided to join SkyWest during the pandemic. He had a friend who worked at SkyWest who suggested he apply after seeing how SkyWest continued to be successful even during industry uncertainty.

“This prompted me to convert my license and apply to SkyWest,” Camillo said. “I sought stability and consistency, a job I could depend on to provide for me and my family.”

For Camillo, Native American Heritage month is important because it is an opportunity for people to learn about the resilience and perseverance of the Native cultures, and recognize the remarkable endurance they have demonstrated through generations.

“In the early 1800s, Chief WhiteBear had a vision of a lake to the north,” Camillo explains. “In his vision, he saw a united people, composed of individuals from cultures all over the world, singing songs and celebrating together. Determined to fulfill this vision, he traveled north with his clan, enduring many moons of harsh weather. Eventually, they arrived at the lake he had seen in his dreams. There, they settled and called it home. Today, this community is known as the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation. Every year, the Nation hosts a powwow, attracting clans from around the globe to come together in celebration. I believe this annual event is a testament to Chief WhiteBear’s vision of unity and cultural celebration.”

Alayha M. – Crew Scheduler, HDQ

Alayha is passionate about upholding her family’s traditions and connecting with her culture. While she was growing up, Alayha’s mother served as the Superintendent of the Bureau of Indian Affairs for several years in St. George, Utah. During this time, she would often take Alayha and her siblings to see various reservations in the Southern Utah area. These visits provided valuable learning experiences that allowed her family to immerse themselves in the diverse traditions and customs of different Native American communities.

Her experience in Southern Utah also helped bring Alayha to SkyWest. A friend suggested she apply for a role in crew scheduling knowing how much she loved solving puzzles and multitasking.

“He was right,” Alayha said. “Years later, and I still love working here!”

Alayha says she is happy to be part of a company that celebrates her and takes pride in sharing her family legacy. She believes that it is important to share the stories of her ancestors, so they are not forgotten.

“On my mother’s side, my family is proud to be directly related to Susan La Fleshe Picotte, the very first Native American physician,” Alayha explained. “She was a true trailblazer, breaking barriers for Native American women and setting an inspiring example for our tribe and beyond.”

Her dedication, hard work, and compassion brought much-needed medical care to the Omaha reservation, making a significant impact on the health and well-being of her community.

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.”

Jul 24

Amelia Earhart Day

Amelia Earhart Day is celebrated each July to recognize the pioneering achievements she made for women in aviation. The organizers behind the Amelia Earhart Festival in Atchison, Kansas continue this effort by honoring outstanding aviation professionals each year who are making a difference in the industry. This year, they presented the Pioneering Achievement Award to SkyWest First Officer Kamia B. for her career achievements and community contributions.

“Given her journey from homelessness to flight instructor, Kamia has a compelling story to tell,” said museum and festival coordinator Maggie Nelson Collins.

Kamia was recognized and accepted the award from Amelia Rose Earhart (no relation to the pioneer Amelia Earhart), who had won the Pioneering Achievement Award almost 10 years ago and had provided a scholarship to Kamia early in her flight training.

“It means so much to me that SkyWest cares about my achievements and is willing to be part of such a glorious occasion. I love this company and truly feel like part of a family,” said Kamia. “I’m excited to upgrade as soon as I get my hours and do the best job I can here.”

SkyWest, Inc. Board Chairman James Welch and Director of Flight Operations and Company Chief Pilot Jessica Mulligan, and their spouses, attended the event and were excited for the opportunity to recognize Kamia.

“The event was fantastic,” said Jessica Mulligan, Director of Flight Operations and SkyWest Company Chief Pilot. “Kamia’s speech was raw, endearing, and motivating. She did a wonderful job discussing the obstacles she has overcome and providing advice and inspiration to others. It was a privilege to support her and be part of the festivities.”

Congratulations, Kamia, on receiving this prestigious recognition and for continuing to inspire others to pursue their dreams. Learn more about how you can take to the skies as a SkyWest pilot.

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.

May 16

AAPI: Honoring Diverse Histories and Cultures

The SkyWest team is the best in the industry thanks to our people and the various skills and strengths we bring to work every day. As we continue to celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, read what Captain Lauren A. and Mera B. have to say about their experience at SkyWest and how they share their culture with those around them.

Captain Lauren A. – CRJ Captain DFW
Captain Lauren A.’s journey with SkyWest Airlines began as a college student, non-revving between Phoenix and Honolulu thanks to her father, a Delta Air Lines mechanic. Inspired by how happy our crews always were, Lauren set her sights on becoming a pilot with SkyWest. Proudly of Hawaiian, Japanese, Filipino, and English descent, Lauren embraces her diverse heritage and loves the unity that defines our company culture.

“Every flight feels like a reunion,” says Captain Lauren A., recalling her encounters with fellow Polynesians and Asians. “No matter where we go, we always find the island connections. The Aloha spirit lives on in all of us.”

Beyond the flightdeck, Captain Lauren A. celebrates her family culture by sharing traditions, customs, and favorite meals with her crews, hoping to share her sense of belonging and appreciation.

Mera B. – Parts Clerk OKC
Mera says that Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a deeply personal and prideful experience. Born in Oahu and hailing from the Marshall Islands, Mera finds solace in wearing handmade Marshallese accessories and supporting local island businesses, even while residing far from her homeland.

“As the saying goes, ‘You can take the girl from the Island, but you can’t take the Island from the girl,'” Mera said. “I am proud to be a Marshallese, I am proud to be an Island girl!”

Grateful for the inclusive environment fostered at SkyWest Airlines, Mera emphasizes the importance of celebrating AAPI month as a means of honoring diverse histories and cultures.

“In our family, we are builders, war survivors, songwriters, and missionaries,” said Mera. “But the common thread is our commitment to preserving our land and heritage.”

May 02

SkyWest Celebrates Asian American Pacific Islander Month

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and at SkyWest we take pride in the rich diversity of our team and the various backgrounds and cultures of our people.

Lika F. – Coordinator Crew Admin, HDQ

Lika, a coordinator crew admin at HDQ, doesn’t limit celebrating her culture to just the month of May; she embraces every opportunity to share what her heritage means to her and how it influences her life and career at SkyWest.

“Recognizing AAPI Heritage Month is important to me because it acknowledges the significant achievements, contributions, and impact of Asian American and Pacific Islander individuals and communities in history, culture, and society,” Lika explains.

As a member of the Pacific Islander community, specifically from the island of Samoa, Lika sees this month as a beautiful reminder to preserve cultural memory and to take pride in her identity. One key aspect of her heritage being her family and their history as farmers on the island, a connection of land and people that she describes as, “deeply rooted in the Samoan people.”

“The land is a source of life,” Lika said. “My family spends a lot of time outdoors together maintaining our cacao, plantain, and taro plantations. Once harvesting season comes, we prepare the crops to be taken to the farmers market for sale. We are planters and farmers. This is who we are, and it’s a part of who I am.”

So, how does Lika celebrate her culture? For her, it’s all about family and community.

“There’s no better way to celebrate than being surrounded by family at a cookout,” she says. “Traditional Siva or dancing is always the highlight of any Samoan cultural celebration. Whether it’s the art of dance and storytelling, listening to cultural music, learning and speaking the native language, or wearing traditional garments, there are many ways to celebrate our culture.”

The desire to be surrounded by a positive culture and community was an important part of Lika’s journey to SkyWest.

“I came to SkyWest after hearing a lot of positive feedback about the culture and leadership,” Lika says. “Along with its prestigious reputation, SkyWest also presented endless opportunities for professional growth and development.”

Captain Johnny C. – ERJ Captain, ORD

Captain Johnny C.’s journey with SkyWest began long before he became an airline pilot. As an exchange student during his first visit to the United States, his initial flight to his host family was operated by SkyWest.

“I quickly noticed the immense presence this airline had in the country,” Captain Johnny C. recalled. “I knew then that SkyWest would offer me a diverse range of flying experiences, unlike any other.”

This month, Captain Johnny C. has been reflecting on his journey from Taiwan to the Midwest and the significant importance of AAPI recognition.

“Understanding and embracing our differences allows us to break out of our shells,” he said. “Even though we are far from our home countries, this helps us feel closer to our heritage. This month, we can truly live, laugh, and smile as we celebrate our cultural differences through food, clothing, and various activities.”

For Captain Johnny C., the most unique aspect of his culture back home is the variety of street food that he misses celebrating. He also misses seeing others wearing traditional clothes, as it was a way to show pride in their ancestors and tribes.

“I’m grateful to be a part of this month’s celebration of AAPI,” said Captain Johnny C. “Our cultures are like a massive melting pot. Although we may look different, we share many similarities and view each other as family. That’s what it’s all about – the support we give our brothers and sisters to succeed in this industry, where we make up only a fraction of it.”

Throughout the month, we will feature updates from employees across the operation sharing their thoughts about what AAPI Month means to them and how their culture and background have shaped their experience at SkyWest.

Apr 10

National Siblings Day: Brothers and Pilots

The choice to become a pilot is a monumental decision and it comes in many shapes and sizes. For some, it starts as a childhood dream and, for others, it comes from their adventurous spirit and desire to see the world. First Officer Colton S.’s decision came thanks to the example of his brother and has led him to a fulfilling and invigorating career.

Colton’s brother, Captain Cody S., joined the SkyWest team in 2001. As Captain Cody was transitioning from the E175 to the CRJ in 2019, his simulator instructor, Captain Adam M., encouraged him to share the experience with his friends and family. This gesture not only gave Colton a chance to learn more about what it is really like to fly an aircraft but led to his decision to pursue a career in the skies.

“[Cody sharing his experience] was the moment that really changed everything for me,” Colton said. “It was really eye-opening and helped me understand why my brother enjoyed his career so much. I left [the conversation] with the realization that I was not enjoying what I did for a living and that someday I wanted to become an airline pilot for SkyWest, whatever it took to get there.”

“I feel for Colton it was a life-changing experience when he realized this is something he could do, and it could provide a stable career for him and his wife’s future,” Captain Adam M. said.

Shortly after, Colton enrolled in flight school at ATP in Ogden, quit his job, and surprised his brother Cody with the news a few days before class began by wearing his new school’s apparel. Colton enjoyed his time as a student at ATP, earning his CFI, CFII, and MEI. While building his hours, he became a flight instructor, then a lead flight instructor at ATP, and joined the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program.

“I was a SkyWest cadet, and it was truly the only airline that I had considered or looked into, so I am fortunate to have made it here,” Colton said.

Colton has since graduated from flight school and is currently a SLC-based first officer.

“This has truly been a full-circle journey from the start of my aviation pursuit to where I am today,” Colton shared. “I want to thank Captain Adam M., my simulator instructor, for playing such a big role in a major life-changing decision, and I hope to fly with him someday! Also, I want to thank my brother Cody for all of his support throughout my aviation journey so far and for being a great example to me. We are both looking forward to flying together in the near future!”

Thank you, Captain Adam M. and Captain Cody S., for sharing your love for aviation. Welcome to the SkyWest family, Colton!