Category Archives: SkyWest People

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.”

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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.

May 28

AAPI: Celebrating Their Stories

The SkyWest team includes those from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, helping to make us the best in the industry. Hear what a few of our people have to say about how their own experience has helped them at SkyWest as we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Seiya Y. – SFO, Captain ERJ

Captain Seiya Y. was inspired to pursue a career in aviation by his grandfather who worked in aircraft manufacturing. After high school, Seiya moved from Japan to the United States to attend the University of North Dakota for flight training, and, in 2021, he joined SkyWest Airlines.

“Working hard is deeply embedded in Japanese culture,” Captain Seiya Y. said. “That’s why I feel right at home at SkyWest; there’s a strong emphasis on work ethic here. I’ve had the privilege of flying with some truly outstanding crews.”

Beyond the flight deck, Captain Seiya Y. is also passionate about giving back. He volunteers with the Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA), where he mentors aspiring pilots and helps guide them on their journey into aviation.

“I really enjoy checking in, offering career advice, and supporting them however I can,” he said. “It’s rewarding to help the next generation of pilots find their path.”

One of the things Captain Seiya Y. values most about SkyWest is the supportive and approachable leadership.

“Here at SkyWest, you matter,” Captain Seiya Y. said. “I feel fortunate to be able to walk into the office and have a conversation with my chief pilot. The management team genuinely cares about each of us and wants to see us succeed.”

Reflecting on his journey so far, Captain Seiya Y. is grateful to be part of a team that shares his commitment to excellence. 

“I couldn’t be happier with my experience at SkyWest,” Captain Seiya Y. said. “I wake up excited to go to work every day, and I take great pride in what I do. This is the best regional airline in the industry, and I’m proud to be part of it, surrounded by the best people.”

Johnny W. – SBN, Mechanic II

Johnny moved to the U.S. from China for school. When considering where to begin his journey in aviation maintenance, Johnny said that SkyWest stood out as the ideal choice. A close friend who had already joined the company spoke highly of our supportive culture and collaborative atmosphere, which made the decision even easier.

“SkyWest offers an exceptional environment for new technicians,” Johnny said, “It’s a place where you can develop your skills, gain hands-on experience, and invest in your long-term career.”

Since joining SkyWest, Johnny has found the experience both rewarding and transformative. He said he values the inclusive environment and the opportunity to engage with a diverse team of talented individuals.

“My time here has been incredibly fulfilling,” Johnny reflects. “I’ve had the chance to work alongside individuals from all over the world. Collaborating to solve complex aircraft challenges has broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the global nature of this industry.”

Leo X. – SLC, Flight Attendant

Originally from Shanghai, China, Leo moved to the U.S. 11 years ago and was finally able to pursue his dream career as a flight attendant. He was introduced to SkyWest through friends who spoke positively about their experiences with the company.

“SkyWest’s reputation as the largest regional airline and its flexible work environment were major factors in my decision,” Leo said. “The company’s support for employees from many different backgrounds also stood out to me.”

Throughout his time at SkyWest, Leo has appreciated the opportunity to work with passengers and colleagues from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. He values the interpersonal aspect of the role and the ability to contribute to a positive travel experience for others.

“I enjoy working with people from all over the world,” Leo said. “It’s rewarding to connect with passengers from different cultures and help build understanding through small, everyday interactions.”

Leo attributes his strong work ethic and professionalism to the values instilled by his parents.

“Growing up in China, my parents always taught me to be a good person, work hard, and respect others,” Leo said. “These principles continue to help me be successful in my day-to-day responsibilities as a flight attendant.”

Outside of work, Leo enjoys cooking and often prepares traditional dishes, such as handmade dumplings, to share with friends and family during holidays like Chinese New Year. He also enjoys exploring local cuisine while traveling, viewing food as a meaningful way to engage with different cultures and bond with his coworkers on trips.

“Food is such a big part of culture,” Leo said. “Trying new dishes, in different places, helps me connect with the communities I get to visit while working.”

Karen Y. – SLC, Flight Attendant

Karen grew up in Hong Kong. When she was about six years old, she became inspired to be a flight attendant after seeing one of her neighbors wearing a flight attendant uniform.

“I deeply admired how stylish and sophisticated she looked in her uniform and I knew I wanted to be just like her when I grew up,” Karen said. “One day I got up the courage to ask about her career and she told me stories of travel, adventure, and connecting with people from around the world.”

After moving to the United States, Karen decided to continue to pursue her dream and thrived in SkyWest training, embracing every opportunity to grow in her role.

“I am very proud to be from Hong Kong, it was a very diverse environment and taught me to see the world from many different points of view,” Karen said. “I grew up around lots of different people and cultures, which has helped me be a better flight attendant because we serve passengers from around the world.”

Karen has enjoyed her seven years of SkyWest service and is looking forward to many more. One of the things she values most is the opportunity to work alongside the incredible crews that help make every flight a success. She describes our people as more than just colleagues, they’re like a second family.

“I love the culture and work environment here at SkyWest.” Karen said. “It is the law of attraction, an amazing company attracts amazing people, and that is why SkyWest is the best.”

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.

Oct 14

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Family Traditions

Throughout this past month we have been recognizing the rich cultural backgrounds of many members of our SkyWest family. We have been inspired by their stories and explored how they continue to celebrate their heritage. As Hispanic Heritage month comes to a close, we are excited to share Houston-based Flight Attendant Jennifer R.’s story.

Jennifer R., IF (IAH)

For Flight Attendant Jennifer R., Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor her culture and family. Her parents, first-generation immigrants, emigrated from El Salvador in search of better opportunities.

“It was all to help my generation and those beyond, my parents taught us that family and God come first,” Jennifer said. “I still wonder how they managed everything, ensuring we had food, clothes, a home, and love.”

Family plays a central role in both Jennifer’s life and career. She celebrates her heritage by spending time with loved ones and practicing cultural traditions, especially during holidays like Christmas. As part of their celebrations, her family exchanges gifts and enjoys homemade Salvadorian tamales and panes de pollo.

Her close-knit family has been the biggest support system and central to her success. Because of her parents’ sacrifices, Jennifer now has the unique opportunity to live out some of her biggest aspirations.

“My mother always dreamed of being a flight attendant and she encouraged me to follow my dreams,” Jennifer explained. “I am happy we now get to experience traveling the world together.”

Her grandmother also inspired her with lessons of perseverance and determination, recognizing Jennifer’s passion for aviation and encouraging her to work hard. Though her grandmother has passed on, Jennifer knows her spirit lives on through her.

“The biggest lesson she ever taught me was to never give up and keep striving for what you want,” Jennifer said. “I will always look up to her and hope to continue to make her proud.”

Thank you, Jennifer, for sharing your story with your SkyWest family and teaching us about the impact your heritage has had on your career.