Happy Father’s Day to all our SkyWest dads! Read on to hear some of the amazing stories our SkyWest people submitted about how fatherhood has impacted their lives and how dads have shaped their aviation careers.

Captain Chuck R. – ORD Captain ERJ / Rylie R. – ORD First Officer ERJ

For Captain Chuck, aviation isn’t just a career, it’s a lifelong passion. Not only does he fly airplanes, but he also builds them, and he’s built an incredible life as both a pilot and a father.

“I’ve been around airplanes and flying since I was 10 years old – I am that story,” Captain Chuck said. “SkyWest was always somewhere I wanted to end up.” 

Being hired at SkyWest was a “huge gift” for Captain Chuck, and with that gift, he set a goal when he started: “Be everyone’s favorite captain and leave a legacy.” 

According to his daughter, Rylie, that is a goal he’s met. She says she often hears, “You’re Chuck’s daughter? I love him!” when she begins her trips with a new pilot.

Rylie remembers taking her first flight with her dad on her second birthday. She grew up flying and never thought of it as an actual job because her dad made it seem like fun. After initially exploring engineering in college, Rylie knew she wanted to follow in her dad’s footsteps as a pilot. Fast forward to present day: the father-daughter duo will have a chance to fly a trip together this Father’s Day.

“There aren’t many opportunities in a career to work with a parent or loved one,” Rylie said. “I’m very grateful to be where I’m at right now. I’m in no rush to go anywhere else. I’m thoroughly enjoying my time, and I know that I’m only going to be in this position for so long, so I might as well enjoy it as much as possible.”

Captain Chuck said it’s incredible to be able to fly with Rylie and that he’s excited to celebrate the holiday with her. 

“I’m looking forward to her actually buying my dinner,” Captain Chuck joked. “But more seriously, I’m looking forward to enjoying this time with her, and to see her soar beyond the right seat too.”

“Many people helped me get to where I am today,” Rylie said. “SkyWest has given me meaningful, lifelong relationships, and I’m grateful for the opportunities it’s provided both professionally and personally.” She credits her dad as her biggest influence, describing him as smart, encouraging, and always willing to listen to others.

Captain Keith M. – DEN Captain ERJ

Captain Keith calls fatherhood his greatest calling in life. With his wife Andrea, they are the parents of 10 children, seven adopted children and three foster children who are soon to be adopted.

Many of Captain Keith’s children come from traumatic backgrounds, including abuse, neglect, instability, and the effects of addiction. The family supports them through fear, grief, court proceedings, and uncertainty. 

“Walking alongside them through healing has changed our lives forever,” Captain Keith said. “Rebuilding their trust has taught us patience, compassion, resilience, and unconditional love on a much deeper level. The journey is not always easy, but every difficult moment has been worth it to watch these kids grow, heal, and begin to truly believe they are safe, loved, and wanted.”

He also encourages others to consider becoming foster parents.

“There is an incredible need for safe, loving homes, and while the journey may stretch your heart in ways you never expected, it can also become one of the greatest blessings and purposes in your life,” Captain Keith said.

A SkyWest pilot for 28 years, Captain Keith’s love of aviation started early, sparked by his fascination with airplanes, travel, and the responsibility that comes with flying. He learned the value of hard work, discipline, humility, and staying calm under pressure throughout his time serving in the U.S. Air Force. He credits these qualities and his faith for guiding him in his aviation career, as well as in fatherhood. 

He was drawn to SkyWest for its reputation for professionalism, safety, family atmosphere, and strong culture. Joining SkyWest was, as he puts it, “one of the best decisions of my career,” allowing him to do what he loves, build lasting friendships, and support and provide for his family.

“At the end of the day, no professional accomplishment compares to being called Dad,” said Captain Keith.

Wesley D. – PSP Lead Parts Clerk Crew

Wesley grew up around SkyWest. His father, retired Captain Colin, flew for SkyWest for 39 years before retirement. Over the years, Wesley heard countless conversations about aviation, and he eventually decided to try flying.

“My dad definitely motivated me,” Wesley said. “He mentored me and taught me how to fly. I got my private pilot license and that was one way that we bonded.”

Captain Colin also encouraged Wesley to apply at SkyWest to begin learning the business, leading to Wesley’s start as a parts clerk in 2021.

With both father and son based in Palm Springs, Wesley was able to assist maintenance operations on the aircraft his dad flew. 

“I would go meet his plane and chat with him about his flight and his workday,” Wesley said. “My dad had worked at SkyWest for so long, so he had so much knowledge that helped me. That became really special to me because it gave us more to talk about and it was interesting to both of us.”

Father’s Day has given Wesley a chance to reflect on what his dad does and has done for him.

“My dad is an amazing father,” Wesley said. “He’s always looked out for me and tried to consider what’s in my best interest through his eyes. He’s always been very supportive.”

Captain Josh R. – BOI Captain ERJ / Della R. – BOI First Officer ERJ

Captain Josh says that flying with his daughter for the first time at SkyWest was “surreal.” 

“One moment I was holding her in my arms, and the next she’s sitting next to me, it was so special,” he recalled. 

For Captain Josh, the highlight of being a father has been watching his daughter, Della, grow and progress. 

“It’s so neat to watch her succeed,” he said.

Captain Josh joined SkyWest in 2016 and has greatly enjoyed his time here. He started flying in high school and later studied aviation at Central Washington University. As a child, he and his dad built a kit plane together – one he eventually went on to fly.

Della began flying at 16 with the goal of earning her private pilot license. Aviation runs deep in her family; both of her parents and both of her grandfathers are pilots. A family friend, who was a commercial pilot, helped teach her to fly.

Although becoming an airline pilot wasn’t initially on her radar, Della went on to pursue her certifications at Silverhawk Aviation Academy, where she completed her ratings and flight instruction. She says she feels “really lucky” that she was able to join the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program to help her prepare to become a first officer.

Della describes her dad as a “thoughtful, sweet guy” and credits him with encouraging her to pursue aviation and giving her the tools to succeed at such a young age. One of her most memorable experiences was flying together for the first time. Before departure, Captain Josh stood next to her in the cabin and told passengers how special the day was to him and how proud he was to fly with Della. 

Della appreciated that show of affection from her dad, who is usually someone who shies away from the spotlight. She echoed her dad’s description of their trip together. 

“To look over and see your dad sitting next to you is a surreal experience,” Della said. “I thank him for pushing me into this career and giving me the tools for success. This is a job I love, and a job that I’m going to be able to hopefully have for the next 40-plus years.”

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.”

We’re proud to be a team made up of individuals with unique backgrounds and experiences. This Pride Month, we’re sharing the stories of some of our team members and how their personal journeys have shaped their careers and strengthened our airline

Captain Dillon – DTW, Supv Flight Operations

Captain Dillon discovered his love for aviation in fourth grade, after flying for the first time during a spring break trip with his family. He found everything about the airport environment fascinating and afterwards told his parents he was going to be a pilot one day. He spent his spare time playing flight simulator and also joined an Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) chapter at his local airport. This gave him a chance to meet retired aviation enthusiasts who would sometimes take him out for a quick flight on their prop planes.

By 15, Captain Dillon was taking flying lessons. At 16, he completed his first solo flight, and, by 17, he had earned his private pilot license. He continued to pursue his aviation dream at Western Michigan University (WMU), where he earned additional ratings and instructed aspiring pilots.

While he was attending WMU, Captain Dillon helped start a National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) chapter with the goal of promoting acceptance within the flight deck.

“It was all about camaraderie,” Captain Dillon said. “I was part of the summit where we discovered that people who are not accepting of others can create a breakdown of crew resource management in the flight deck. The NGPA organization was designed to support diversity and connect like-minded people who want to become friends.”

Through mutual friends involved in NGPA, Captain Dillon met his partner – also a pilot – and the two have been together for over eight years. Their shared love of aviation helped bring them together and has been a cornerstone of their relationship.

“I appreciate being able to fly for SkyWest because I can be proud of the person I am and can live life as myself,” Captain Dillon said. “The culture here is incredibly accepting. I have so many friends here, and our crews feel like family. SkyWest is made up of people from so many different backgrounds and it is so important that we are all able to work together and understand each other.”

Captain Dillon has enjoyed his time at SkyWest and adapting to the daily challenges of the job. He values the opportunity to see the bigger picture while collaborating with various departments across the company to help ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Dietrich S. – PHX, Flight Attendant

Growing up, Dietrich was involved with the Civil Air Patrol and had the opportunity to help marshal, taxi, and fly in airshows. That early exposure to the thrill of flight sparked a lifelong passion for aviation and inspired him to pursue a career in the skies.

“I was drawn to SkyWest because of its reputation for having one of the most rigorous training programs for flight attendants,” Dietrich shared. “I thrive on challenges, and that training gives me confidence. When I’m working alongside another SkyWest flight attendant, I know we’re both well-prepared to handle any emergency situation. Another aspect I really enjoy is working with our partner airlines. It keeps you vigilant; every day is different. Whether it’s safety, service, or announcements, you’re constantly engaged and paying attention to every detail of the job.”

Dietrich says his unique background in aviation helps him to more effectively communicate to customers and bridge the gap between the flight deck and the cabin.

“I see myself as a translator between pilots and passengers,” Dietrich explains. “When there are delays or turbulence, I am able to let passengers know what’s happening in a way that is reassuring and helps put them at ease.”

Dietrich also says he appreciates SkyWest’s experienced leadership team.

“Most of our management have been flight attendants,” Dietrich said. “They know what it is like to be in our shoes, and we have so much support from them.”

Today, Dietrich is happily married to his husband, and the two are excitedly preparing to welcome a baby into their family.

“I’ve come a long way in my journey,” Dietrich reflects. “When I first came out, I quickly realized how important community is. Finding people who support and uplift you makes all the difference.”

That sense of connection is something Dietrich carries with him every day at work. He’s passionate about creating a welcoming environment, engaging with his fellow crewmembers, and building genuine connections and friendships with them.

“One of the things I love most about this industry is the opportunity to work with people from so many different backgrounds,” Dietrich said. “Every flight is a chance to learn something new, to connect, and to build a sense of belonging and camaraderie.”