May 10

Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy Mother’s Day to all of our SkyWest moms! Read on to hear a few stories that some of our incredible SkyWest people submitted about how motherhood has changed their lives and moms have shaped their aviation careers.

Susan C. – DEN Flight Attendant / Captain Andrew C. – DEN Captain CRJ

Captain Andrew says he wouldn’t be where he is today without his mom, Susan. Along with helping him pay for flight lessons, she also taught him values that make him a successful captain.

“She definitely inspired and challenged me along the way,” Captain Andrew said. “Her attitude and empathy toward people really inspire me to be the best version of myself and try to make people smile every day.”

Susan continues to be an example when the pair have the chance to fly together.

“I didn’t become a flight attendant because of Andrew, but it’s a bonus that he works here,” Susan said. “This is my favorite job in the world. I wish I had been here my entire career rather than just four years with SkyWest.”

Susan says she is grateful she found a home at SkyWest when she was looking for a change after the pandemic. It was just a few months before Captain Andrew started training as a first officer.

Now, a captain, Andrew takes the lead onboard, a welcome adjustment for his mom.

“It makes me so proud of him,” Susan said.

Captain Kate R. – DEN Captain ERJ

Captain Kate originally wanted to become an architect until, on a whim, she went on a discovery flight.

“I thought, ‘Well that sounds like fun.’ I tried it once, and I was hooked,” Captain Kate said.

Pursuing a career as a pilot hasn’t always been an easy process, but Captain Kate’s husband, a fellow pilot, and children have been supportive along the way. She even credits them for helping her become the leader she is today.

“Being a parent has helped shape me to be a successful leader in the flight deck,” Captain Kate said. “I think parenthood is the hardest job. It makes aviation look easy at times.”

One thing that has helped is the flexibility she has enjoyed at SkyWest to prioritize her family.

“SkyWest has allowed me to balance motherhood and my career,” Captain Kate said. “I can be home and be the interactive parent that I want to be.”

Cindy M. – SLC Flight Attendant / Riley M. – COS First Officer CRJ

Riley grew up around aviation, His family managed the Huntington Municipal Airport in Utah. His dad, Rob, was also a pilot at SkyWest, which allowed Riley and his family to travel across the world during the summer.

Those early experiences sparked Riley’s fascination with aviation, and he set a goal to visit all 50 states. His mom, Cindy, was there every step of the way.

“She was always willing to help me figure out how to do travel so we could go out and see new places,” Riley said.

Riley said his mom helped him find joy in learning with experiences like his 50-state quest, setting him up to pursue flying.

“My mom also emphasized that whatever we wanted to do, it’s going to require a lot of work and effort,” Riley said. “You might as well put that work and effort towards something you enjoy doing.”

Cindy was also drawn to the aviation industry and became a flight attendant at SkyWest nearly nine years ago.

“The biggest thing we love about SkyWest is it’s always felt like it’s part of our family,” Cindy said.

Cindy recently had the opportunity to work with Riley on one of his first four-day trips. He loved working with his mom and wandering around their overnight towns.

“It’s fun to see your mom in the back helping with passengers, and doing the briefings with her and the captain,” Riley said.

It was also a special trip for Cindy as a mom.

“I was very proud of the way he holds himself and the way he works with his crewmembers,” said Cindy. “It’s a powerful moment as a mom to see how he’s a good pilot, he’s a good first officer, he’s a good crewmember, and he likes to take care of people. Not many parents get to see that.”

Riley added that like him, many pilots have their parents to thank for their success.

“Most of the pilots I’ve talked to in the flight deck felt like they got here because of the support of their moms and dads,” Riley said. “A lot of times, they specifically talk about the hard work their moms did. I think that one of the best things moms do is encourage you and help you remember the reason you sought those goals.”

Captain Penny H. – DEN Captain ERJ

Around first grade, Captain Penny took a flight as an unaccompanied minor from Seattle to Minneapolis. Sitting by the window, she saw the engines start and the plane push back.

“I remember thinking, ‘This is amazing,’” Captain Penny said. “This is what pilots do all day. They don’t have to go to school. They get to fly airplanes all day.”

When she arrived at her grandparents’ farm in Iowa, her grandpa took her flying in his Piper Cub. As she soared above the cornfields, Captain Penny was officially bitten by the aviation bug and decided she was going to be a pilot.

Now, Captain Penny is married to a pilot and their son, Tyler, has recently earned his commercial license – making four generations of pilots in their family.

Pursing her career while being a mother has not always been easy, particularly balancing her schedule, but motherhood is rewarding for Captain Penny.

“It can be challenging doing this career and having kids at the same time,” Captain Penny said. “The flight time here at SkyWest has been good. I’ve built up some seniority, and I get better trips. I’m kind of living the good life now.”

May 01

Celebrating our AAPI Colleagues!

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month, and SkyWest is pleased to celebrate the stories of some of our amazing people.

Michael L. – DVL Agt Cross Utilized

Growing up in Hong Kong, Michael watched Boeing 747s navigate the infamous approach at Kai Tak Airport (HKG). Aircraft would use a large checkerboard-painted hill as a visual sign to start a hard turn, descending to the runway with a tight, right turn over skyscrapers. Michael says he was impressed by the expertise displayed by pilots every day.

“It was a really difficult approach, you can ask any pilot about that,” Michael said. “I admired the skills that the pilots had, and after that, I wanted to be a pilot.”

Michael said living in Hong Kong also played a role in shaping him for a successful future in aviation.

“Hong Kong has a mixed culture as a city. I think that really helped prepare me to be able to adapt to different cultures and to get ready for flight training,” Michael said.

A graduate of the University of North Dakota, Michael is building up his flight hours and working his way toward the flight deck. Recently, he joined the SkyWest airport operations team in Devils Lake, North Dakota (DVL).

“At UND, I always heard good things about SkyWest,” Michael said. “I’ve always heard SkyWest is welcoming of everyone.”

Michael has also enjoyed seeing a different side of the aviation industry as a cross-utilized agent.

“It’s a good opportunity to help me understand the whole operation from the airport side, not only a pilot’s point of view,” Michael said. “I think it prepares me for what comes next and I think it’s really helpful.”

Michael enjoys working at a regional airport and learning how to be an agent.

“I’ve had a positive experience with SkyWest,” Michael said. “I’m working with a small team and they’ve really helped me to succeed. SkyWest is a great environment for me.”

Magdalene F. – BOI Clerk Parts III

Magdalene started her aviation career in airport operations at the Boise, Idaho (BOI) airport. Drawn to SkyWest because of the great benefits, she started on the ramp and quickly made a good impression with her skills.

“My leaders would say, ‘Oh my gosh, you’re so buff,’” Magdalene said with a laugh. “Because you’d have to carry luggage and all that other stuff. They saw me as a strong individual, so they put me in places where I could be the best.”

That was a natural fit for Magdalene, who thrives on stepping up where she is needed.

“I like to be a helping set of hands,” Magdalene said. “If anybody needs help, then I’m there.”

Magdalene says her parents helped her get to where she is today. Her family is from Western Samoa and New Zealand. Magdalene’s parents moved their family to California to provide a better life for their kids. Her mom managed a warehouse, and her dad built his own trucking business. Her parents’ examples, along with a cultural identity built on strong, efficient work, have encouraged Magdalene to take big steps every time she gets the opportunity, including making the jump from Airport Operations to Maintenance.

After over a decade of quality work and personal reliability, Magdalene has excelled in her current role as a parts clerk in the Maintenance Department.

“I have learned a lot from SkyWest,” Magdalene said. “My leaders seem to like my work ethic. They’ve given me many opportunities and I appreciate the confidence they have in me.”

When asked about more reasons she’s stayed for a decade, Magdalene adds excellent coworkers to the list.

“I love it here,” Magdalene said. “All the personalities we have here just fit in so well together. There’s a lot of different backgrounds, and we just get along so well.”

Sijin R. – DEN First Officer CRJ

Sijin moved to the United States from China at 17 years old. He was originally drawn to aviation as a flight attendant. Sijin was always impressed with how crewmembers presented themselves professionally, and he was intrigued by the opportunity to travel and meet people from all different cultures.

In 2014, Sijin joined American Airlines, and later met his wife, a fellow flight attendant, in Chicago. She helped Sijin to chase his dreams and become a pilot.

“My wife encouraged me,” Sijin said. “She wanted me to take a big step forward, so she pushed me to go to flight school and become a pilot. She’s my biggest supporter.”

Sijin attended Cornerstone Aviation and heard fellow student pilots talking about SkyWest.

“I started to look into SkyWest and learn about the company culture,” Sijin said. “I found out SkyWest is a great place to work, a great company, and has an awesome culture. That is how I decided to join SkyWest.”

Sijin joined the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program while in flight school, and after graduation, he got his professional start at SWC, where he flew a variety of passengers, including college sports teams.

After a year, Sijin jumped at the opportunity to join SkyWest Airlines.

“I always wanted to fly here so that opportunity was great,” Sijin said. “I get great destinations to explore, and of course I love to fly.”

Sijin has found SkyWest to be a welcoming place for everybody.

“SkyWest is a place for equal job opportunities for everyone,” Sijin said. “If you’re willing to work hard and put your best foot forward, SkyWest will welcome you. That’s what I’ve experienced.”

Apr 08

SkyWest Team Gives Back In Idaho Falls

Several SkyWest employees from our Idaho Falls, Idaho (IDA) station recently traded in their uniforms for aprons as they volunteered at The Idaho Falls Soup Kitchen. The team chopped, baked, and plated more than 200 meals.

“We spend our days taking care of passengers in the air,” said Julie, IDA customer service agent. “We’re happy to take care of our neighbors here at home.”

The group says the decision to volunteer their time to give back was an easy one.

“We were made aware of a need in our community and acted quickly to form a team,” said fellow agent Kim. “We all wanted to offer our time to help ease this burden.”

The Idaho Falls Soup Kitchen provides daily meals year-round to individuals and families facing food insecurity. With 1-in-8 Idaho residents facing limited or uncertain access to adequate food, community partnerships like this one play an important role in keeping services running.

“Community support makes all the difference,” said DJ Collins, director of The Idaho Falls Soup Kitchen. “When organizations show up like this, it strengthens the entire Idaho Falls community.”

SkyWest people, like our team in IDA, are known for giving back to their communities. In fact, the station plans to continue supporting local outreach efforts. They hope their example encourages other SkyWest people to “lift where they stand.”

Mar 31

Celebrating Women’s History Month!

March is Women’s History Month, and SkyWest is excited to celebrate the stories of some of our incredible people.

Jessica T. – DEN Captain ERJ

Living near a small airport inspired Captain Jessica to make a career change.

“I always saw the planes flying around. I went for a discovery flight, and I was absolutely hooked on aviation and flying,” Captain Jessica said.

She picked up flying as a hobby and enrolled in flight school planning to become a flight instructor to afford more flight time. When she met instructors that went on to join SkyWest, Captain Jessica knew she wanted to follow that path.

“It was just such a good opportunity to try to make that happen,” Captain Jessica said. “I was a single mom, so I moved back home with my family to make SkyWest work. My parents were fantastic and just helped me make that dream come true.”

Captain Jessica loves being a pilot because there is variety in every shift. She has learned to rely on her team in the flight deck, cabin, and on the ground to excel each day.

“Everyone at the company has been extremely supportive and understanding,” Captain Jessica said. “SkyWest has always had a good support system. The company gives us the tools that we need to make decisions. They take the time to talk through things with you. They’ve made an effort to make the job a lot easier for us.”

Captain Jessica said it’s SkyWest’s people and culture that have kept her here for 20 years and inspired her to step into leadership roles.

“I remember when I went down to my chief pilot’s office to tell him that I was thinking about applying to be a line check airman, he said, ‘Why do you want to be a line check airman?’ I told him, ’We’re growing as an airline, and I want to be there to carry forward the culture as we bring in a lot of new life.’”

Scarlett O.S. – PSP Mechanic II

Growing up, Scarlett saw her mom as Superwoman. With her example, Scarlett knew she could accomplish anything, including following her passion to become an aircraft mechanic.

“She’s a single mom and she was providing for us on her own,” Scarlett said. “Seeing her handle that gave me the confidence to go for it.”

At SkyWest, Scarlett has found a welcoming environment that has allowed her to succeed.

“I was extremely nervous just coming into the field as a woman,” Scarlett said. “It’s intimidating. I was kind of expecting to have some strange experiences, but I haven’t. Everyone was welcoming. If I had questions or needed help with anything, they were more than happy to do that, and it was a judgment-free zone. I love all the opportunities that we get to continue advancing.”

Scarlett was also pleased to see a female lead mechanic, another great example of women successfully pursuing her field.

“It gave me a boost,” Scarlett said. “It felt nice to see someone in an elite position. She’s been a good mentor for me.”

Phally H. – DFW Flight Attendant

Growing up, Phally had a neighbor who was a flight attendant. She would watch her heading off to work, dressed professionally, and carrying her suitcases. One day, Phally asked her what she did and her neighbor told her she was a flight attendant.

“I didn’t know what it was,” Phally said. “She explained it to me as a kid and I was like, ‘That’s what I want to do when I grow up.’”

Phally was able to achieve this dream because of the sacrifices her mother, Pring Aik, made. She came to the United States to give her family a better life after going through war in Cambodia.

“My mother is my mentor, guide, hero, and every term possible,” Phally said. “I wouldn’t be here without her going through the war in Cambodia and getting us here safely. Also, giving us the opportunity to go to school, study, and become who we want to be in the future.”

Pring and other family members instilled values in Phally that have made her a successful flight attendant.

“They taught me great work ethic and the determination to always do things to the best of my ability and beyond, never shortcutting anything,” Phally said. “Me going into this field just kind of enhanced what my mom, parents, uncles, and aunts have taught me throughout the years: Work hard and you will achieve whatever you want in life.”

Phally sees these values in many of the women she works with at SkyWest.

“They’re dedicated. They’re loyal. They do everything that is expected and more,” Phally said. “Their hard work and work ethic are what I’m inspired by.”

Phally has also appreciated the leaders at SkyWest who have mentored her throughout her time in the skies.

“Our leaders are fantastic. They mold you and help you grow,” Phally said. “One, in particular, has been a huge positive role model to me. She’s very private and I have the utmost love and respect for her. She’s a huge inspiration in my life and comparable to my mom at how influential she is to me.”

People like that have made this job the perfect fit for Phally.

“I absolutely love the company and love the people I work with,” Phally said. “The flexibility of our job, the mentorship, and all the different departments that I’ve been able to work with, spoken to, or even asked help with, just overall are hands-down amazing.”

Lexci L. – ORD Mechanic III

After seeing what her future might look like at a desk job, Lexci knew she wanted to do something else. In high school, she especially enjoyed hands-on classes like welding and woodshop. With the help of her mom, a former flight attendant, Lexci decided to pursue aircraft maintenance

“I always knew that I wanted to fix things, work on things, and get my hands dirty,” Lexci said.

After about three years at SkyWest, Lexci is qualified to work on almost everything as a mechanic. She loves the variety she experiences at work every day.

“There’s just always a lot to offer, and I like that there’s always something new to work on cause it’s never the same old thing with planes,” Lexci said.

When she arrived at the SkyWest maintenance base in Chicago, Lexci was the only woman there, but she felt welcomed and has forged great friendships. Now, she’s helped bring new hires, including other women, at the base up to speed, even spending some time as a lead.

“I really get along well with a lot of my coworkers,” Lexci said. “They are like a second family to me.”

Noelle S. – DEN First Officer ERJ

Noelle aspired to be an airline pilot as a kid but didn’t know anyone working in the industry. After researching her next step out of high school, Noelle settled on Baylor University in Waco, Texas. She credits the aviation program there with setting her up for success.

“When I started out, I didn’t know anything about aviation,” Noelle said. “Their main focus was to introduce the airline world to brand new pilots, and that was super helpful.”

When Noelle was looking at regionals to apply for, SkyWest became an obvious choice.

“Everyone that I talked to, who was at SkyWest, seemed to love it,” Noelle said. “I wanted to be a part of that.”

Noelle says it’s the people and culture at SkyWest that have made this job so enjoyable for her. Flights with all-women crews have also been a particular highlight for Noelle.

“It’s really cool because it doesn’t happen very often to get an all-female crew, but when it does, it’s pretty special, and we usually will take a picture,” Noelle said.

Noelle recognizes the women that paved the way for her to have her dream career.

“It’s important to recognize all of the women that have come before so that I could live my dream,” Noelle said.

Allison Z. – OKC Mechanic II

For Allison, being an aircraft mechanic is a family thing. Her dad worked for Boeing for decades, which started Allison’s fascination with aircraft. He showed her planes at his job and took her to air shows.

When it came time to figure out what to do after high school, Allison naturally decided to become an aircraft mechanic.

“I wasn’t interested in being a pilot,” Allison said. “I loved working with my hands to the point where I just wanted to be a mechanic and actually work on the airplanes.”

It didn’t happen right away, but Allison found her way to aviation.

Allison’s family is her biggest supporter, with her parents helping her find and succeed in her career.

“They’re both very proud of me,” Allison said.

Feb 23

Celebrating Black History Month!

As we celebrate Black History Month, we’re excited to recognize some of the unique stories of a few members of our SkyWest team.

Chuck N. – DTW CRJ First Officer

Chuck was born in Queens, New York, after his parents immigrated from Nigeria to give him better opportunities.

Growing up, Chuck spent time on flight simulators, fueling his passion for aviation. He still vividly remembers the awe he felt during his first airport experience and seeing a 747 aircraft in person. He later joined the Army as an aircraft mechanic and spent two years deployed in Iraq.

After serving his country, Chuck was fortunate to have mentors who encouraged him and helped him along the path to becoming an airline pilot. This included encouragement to join the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program as he transitioned from Army aviation to airline flying.

“SkyWest does an incredible job at facilitating a successful environment for learning,” Chuck said. “Training was spot on, and it prepared me well to be on the line.”

Chuck said that he is thankful for the opportunities he’s had to work hard, grow in his career, and continue pursuing his aviation goals at SkyWest.

“The work you put in is a direct result of what you’re able to achieve in this life,” Chuck said. “I am proud of how far I have come in my aviation journey, and now I’m looking forward to upgrading to Captain and becoming a PIC on the CRJ.”

Tondalah S. – DFW InFlight Admin Assistant

For Tondalah, starting her aviation career represented a new beginning.

“I was rebuilding and moving forward with my life after my son graduated high school, and I was recovering from some health challenges that shifted my perspective,” Tondalah recalled. “I wanted to focus on building a truly fulfilling career.”

Tondalah said that her role as a SkyWest flight attendant represented freedom. After years in desk-based work, she appreciated the fast-paced environment of the industry, the opportunity to be part of a large team, and connecting with people from many different cultures around the world.

Tondalah says she was drawn to SkyWest for its strong reputation, stability, and the close-knit and supportive atmosphere.

“I appreciate the strong leadership here at SkyWest, and how, even as the largest regional airline, it still feels like a family,” Tondalah said. “Our contributions here are recognized and valued.”

Tondalah believes that it is important to reflect on the examples of strength and resilience from those that came before us.

“My grandfather worked for the railroad and never missed a day of work, my mother was a perfect model of integrity and constantly showed up for those around her,” Tondalah recalled. “Their examples really helped shape how I approach my job in aviation and demonstrated to me that consistency, trust, and reliability matter.”

Keith J. – DEN ERJ First Officer

Keith had already graduated with a degree in film and television production when he was bit by the aviation bug after taking a discovery flight. With support and encouragement from his parents, he decided to make a career switch and become a pilot.

“My parents uprooted their lives and left behind their families in Arkansas to move to Denver for a bigger city with more opportunities,” Keith said. “My parents helped me finance my schooling so I could become the first person in my family to graduate from college. When I told them I wanted to pursue aviation, they were incredibly supportive about my decision.”

Keith loves a challenge and was drawn to SkyWest because he was impressed by our reputation for having some of the highest training standards in the industry.

“I knew I wanted to be part of SkyWest because of our stellar training record, I talked to our airline partners and they all agreed that SkyWest was the very best,” Keith said. “I was ready to dive in and fully immerse myself in aviation so I joined the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program, which gave me valuable insight on how the industry operates.”

Keith is grateful he took the leap into aviation and is proud to be building his career at SkyWest, where he continues to grow, and push himself to become better each day alongside his incredible colleagues.

Oct 29

Stories of Strength: Overcoming Cancer

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are highlighting the stories and the strength of several SkyWest employees who have shared their personal experiences with battling cancer.

Christin B. – SBP Ramp Agent

In June 2024, Christin was diagnosed with breast cancer, and her world suddenly shifted. Her days became filled with doctors, treatments, and uncertainty for the future. During this time, she said she made a conscious decision to only focus on what she could control.

Christin says that her work at SkyWest became her lifeline. It helped ground her and kept her focused on the present moment.

“The ramp is demanding. Every task requires focus and precision. From moving aircraft to loading baggage and supporting my team, there’s no room for distraction. Out on the tarmac, cancer couldn’t consume me,” Christin said. “Each shift gave me a sense of purpose, a reminder that I was capable of showing up strong, no matter what was happening behind the scenes.”

Christin says she is also grateful for her colleagues, who became like family to her. Their encouragement, teamwork, and support helped her to remain hopeful.

Now, almost on the other side of her cancer journey, Christin can reflect and see the important role that resilience and a positive attitude played in her recovery. As she prepares to return to work, she feels stronger than before, and says she is ready to rejoin her team with a renewed sense of purpose.

“For me, SkyWest was more than an employer; it was a reminder that even in life’s most difficult seasons, strength is found when you focus on what you can control and lean on the people who believe in you.”

Alex S. – SGU, Customer Service Agent

In October 2021, Alex noticed a large lump on his neck that continued to grow. After meeting with an oncologist and receiving a biopsy, he learned that he tested positive for Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Further scans revealed that he had cancer all over his neck, chest, and throughout his lymph nodes.

After discussing treatment options with his doctor, Alex started down the long road to recovery. It started with six rounds of chemo every two weeks and 25 rounds of radiation. After another scan in March 2022, he began radiation treatment and was declared in remission by July.

In January 2023, Alex learned his cancer had aggressively returned and spread to multiple organs. He was referred to the University of Arkansas for intensive treatment, including 11 chemo drugs, immunotherapy, and a bone marrow transplant. During his treatment Alex had to spend a month in isolation during recovery and was released after a successful engraftment.

“It has now been two years since that day and I’m still in remission! It was a long, painful, and emotional road, but I’m extremely grateful for the second chance at life and being able to tell my story,” Alex said. “If you’re fighting, stay strong and positive. Surround yourself with love and people who support you and push you to do better. If I can do it, anybody can do it.”

Lorie L. – SAN Flight Attendant

Lorie began working for SkyWest nearly two decades ago. She remembers those early days with pride as she was pinning on her wings for the first time, and striving every day to honor her role as a flight attendant with the best regional airline in the industry.

“Life in aviation is not always smooth skies. There are delays and unpredictable schedules, but I have learned how to serve with grace under pressure and how to find joy in the journey,” Lorie says.

Lorie believes that the discipline, resilience, and adaptability she has learned at SkyWest are the same qualities that helped her push through her battle with breast cancer.

“When I finally heard the words ‘cancer free,’ I realized the lessons I learned in the skies helped me push through treatments, surgeries, and countless difficult days,” Lorie said. “As I look back on my career with SkyWest and my journey as a survivor, I see a story of strength, gratitude and growth. My wings may have started as a symbol of my career, but they have become a reminder that no matter the turbulence, I can rise above it.”

Oct 08

SkyWest SBN MX Team Supports Women Battling Cancer

Whether you are a survivor, advocate, community organizer or co-survivor, cancer affects all of us. Recently, the South Bend, Indiana (SBN) Maintenance team participated in a fundraising event for Hello Gorgeous of Hope Inc., a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting women across the country who are battling cancer. This event was the foundation’s largest fundraiser to date.

“This event means so much to me,” said Penny M., parts manager. “I loved that our SBN MX Team had a chance to participate. It’s incredible to see our people come together to support such a meaningful cause.”

Hello Gorgeous provides professional makeovers, wigs, and educational resources to women undergoing cancer treatment, helping restore confidence and dignity during a difficult time. Penny has supported the organization for years, and her passion continues to inspire others.

Along with raising awareness for those battling cancer, this event also qualifies for SkyWest’s SOS: Our People in Action program. Through this unique program, SkyWest will donate to non-profit events and causes that are important to our people. A donation was made on behalf of each SkyWest employee who participated in the Hello Gorgeous golf event, on top of the money already raised by the team.

“I’m proud of the way our team shows up,” Penny added. “It’s not just about playing golf, it’s about making a real impact in the lives of women who need to know they’re not alone.”

SkyWest remains committed to supporting the fight against cancer and encourages everyone to find ways to get involved. Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or simply sharing your story, every effort counts. We’re proud of the SkyWest people who generously gave their time and money to play golf in support of women fighting cancer.

Sep 23

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month!

We are proud of our SkyWest team and pleased to celebrate the various backgrounds and experiences of our people who help to make us the premier airline in the industry. Below are a few unique stories from some of our incredible SkyWest team members in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Ethan M.D.C – First Officer

Ethan grew up in Southern California, where he developed an early interest in flying. As a child, he loved watching Star Wars and later enjoyed watching airplanes soaring over his school. This interest led him to begin flight training while still in high school. Upon graduation, he enrolled at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona.

Ethan always knew he wanted to stay on the West Coast, and SkyWest quickly stood out as a natural fit. After researching the airline, he was drawn to its strong reputation, structured training program, and the positive feedback from employees who genuinely enjoyed their work.

“It seemed like the perfect career opportunity,” Ethan said. “The training was well-organized, and SkyWest really wants you to succeed. Safety is a priority, and I was able to adapt quickly.”

Ethan’s passion and determination to succeed are deeply rooted in his upbringing. Ethan’s father, originally from Mexico, served in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked tirelessly to build a better life for their family. Ethan credits his father’s example and his Mexican heritage for shaping his work ethic.

“With immigration, nothing is given. Everything is earned,” Ethan said. “That is how I learned that I have to give 100% every day, especially in aviation.”

Ethan also values the diversity he sees within the aviation industry.

“Everyone in aviation comes from different backgrounds, because we’re flying with people from all around the world,” he said. “It’s rewarding to be part of a team that brings together so many perspectives to achieve a common goal.”

One of his most memorable experiences throughout his career was flying to Manzanita, Oregon, a town he visited as a child.

“I remember walking along the coast as a kid,” Ethan said. “Flying myself there at 26 was a full-circle moment.”

Angell A. – Flight Attendant

Angell’s journey into aviation began after seeing a job posting for SkyWest.

“People always told me I had the kind of personality that would thrive in aviation,” Angell said. “I realized this was the path I was meant to take.”

Angell was raised in a multicultural household, with family roots in Mexico and Spain. He said he experienced many challenges growing up, but those challenges helped him develop a sense of compassion that continues to help him succeed in his SkyWest career.

“I always go out of my way to help, whether it’s guiding someone through their travel route, suggesting meal options, or simply easing their nerves about traveling.” Angell shares. “We’re often the first and last faces people see on their travel journeys. It’s a powerful role, and I take it seriously.”

Angell is grateful for the ability he has to speak both English and Spanish so that he can connect with passengers from all over the world and help them to feel more at ease during their travels.

Prior to joining SkyWest, Angell had limited travel experience, having only flown once after winning a contest. Today, he travels regularly both for his job and for leisure.

“I feel like I am living the dream,” Angell said. “I am working a job I truly love. My coworkers are like family, and because of my career, I can fly to places I’ve never been and see the world.”

Celeste M. – System Controller

Celeste’s passion for aviation is rooted in her love of travel. Born into an Argentine family, she spent her childhood traveling between the United States and Argentina to visit relatives, which sparked a lifelong interest in exploring new places and cultures.

Today, Celeste says she has found both personal fulfillment and professional growth in her SkyWest career.

“Seeing how the system works as a whole, and how each department plays a role in keeping us flying, has given me a deep respect for the teamwork it takes to run an airline.”

Encouraged by her father to pursue a career at SkyWest, Celeste was drawn to SkyWest because of the many opportunities it offers.

“SkyWest is growing, and with that growth comes so many chances to advance in our aviation careers,” Celeste says. “The opportunity to travel is a blessing that not every job provides.”

For Celeste, travel isn’t just about seeing new places. It’s about connecting with her heritage and learning from others. She values the chance to experience Hispanic cultures beyond her own and believes that understanding different backgrounds is essential to building strong teams.

“It’s important to respect and care about the people you work with,” Celeste says. “That’s how you become an effective team.”

Alfredo H. M. – Flight Attendant

Alfredo moved with his parents to the U.S. from Mexico when he was young. His parents taught him that they were here to work hard, succeed, and help others. Looking back, Alfredo believes those values of respect and service helped shape the person he has become, and he continues to carry those teachings with him on the job each day.

“When I was younger, I used to fly alone to visit my grandparents in Mexico. I’d help with their travel and transportation,” Alfredo recalled. “That sense of caretaking started early, and it’s one of the most rewarding parts of my job now.”

Alfredo is trilingual, fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, a skill that allows him to connect with passengers from diverse backgrounds and offer comfort to them while traveling.

Alfredo says he enjoys his role as a flight attendant at SkyWest and is grateful to be part of the close-knit family we have here.

“SkyWest gives us room to grow. As the company thrives, it brings its people along. We feel included, empowered, and capable of making a difference on every flight,” Alfredo shares. “Every passenger interaction is an opportunity to have a positive impact.”

Jun 15

Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Father’s Day to all of our SkyWest dads and to the fathers who have helped encourage us to achieve our aviation dreams! This includes Captain Mark, who inspired his daughter, First Officer McKenna, to pursue a career as a pilot.

“Long story short, I got into aviation because of my dad,” McKenna said. “I don’t know many people who still have a passion for what they do after doing it for 30 years. That’s rare.”

Captain Mark has been with SkyWest for nearly three decades and he has been a part of plenty of positive changes over the years. In fact, he remembers a time when there were only 500 SkyWest pilots and our operations were much smaller.

“SkyWest has been smart with their growth over the years,” Captain Mark said. “I’ve had a good career and life here.”

McKenna was surrounded by the aviation industry growing up, but it wasn’t until she was a few years into a medical degree that she decided to make the switch to aviation and follow in her father’s footsteps to become a pilot.

“I’m grateful to have parents who supported my decision,” McKenna said. “And I’m especially grateful to have the best example of the kind of pilot I hope to be someday.”

McKenna was familiar with SkyWest thanks to her dad’s career and knew it would be a great place to fly. She was also drawn in because of the travel opportunities and special memories her family was able to make growing up.

“I always thought SkyWest was the best, but the more I learned about my opportunities here, the more I found that to be true.” McKenna said. “I’m proud to work here and be surrounded by great people who are really good at what they do.”

Captain Mark and McKenna’s shared journey in aviation has strengthened their bond. They are grateful for the opportunity they have had to both be at SkyWest where they’ve even been able to fly a short turn together, from Salt Lake City, (SLC) to Fresno (FAT).

“The greatest day I have had at work was a couple of weeks ago, when I got to fly with my daughter, I don’t think anything could ever top that,” Captain Mark said.

“Flying with my dad has been my goal for many years now, and it was so cool to finally accomplish it and work with him,” McKenna said. “He is a great example to me of exactly what a Captain should be, and I appreciate his guidance and support.”

Aviation has truly become a family tradition for their family. All three of Captain Mark’s children completed their flight training and soloed at Utah State University, just like he did. McKenna’s younger brother is currently a flight instructor, and her older sister had been scheduled to begin ground school at SkyWest before her unexpected passing.

“I have great kids, and I know McKenna’s big sister was with us on that flight,” Captain Mark said. “Everything McKenna has accomplished is a testament to her strength and the challenges she’s overcome. I couldn’t be more proud of her.”