Mar 16

Celebrating SkyWest Women in Aviation

As part of Women’s History Month, we are highlighting and recognizing employees across the system. Here is what a few had to say about the work they are doing and how it is continuing to pave the way for more women in the aviation industry.

Viola Henderson – Mechanic, DTW

Being an A&P mechanic is one of Viola Henderson’s biggest accomplishments. Growing up in Detroit, Viola lived down the street from a small airport and her love for aviation started at a very young age. The constant sound of airplanes only piqued Viola’s fascination. She would often ask her parents to walk down the block so she could get a closer look.

“I still remember the first day I walked down there. A prop plane was waiting to take off,” said Viola. “There I was, a small kid with her face pressed up against the fence. I knew then that I wanted to be around airplanes every day of my life and I was going to do everything in my power to make it happen.”

Viola attended Wayne State University and changed her major four times because nothing made her happy. She sought advice about what to do to be happy and successful, and was continually asked, “What makes you happy?” or “What do you like to do?”.

“My answer was always about airplanes, but I thought, ‘I’m a girl. I’m not going to be able to work with or around them,’” said Viola.

She then went to culinary school, but after 13 months there, knew that it still wasn’t the path for her. Finally, Viola began chasing her aviation dreams. She found a cleaning job at the airport and during that time was able to talk with aircraft mechanics. After a year and a half of cleaning aircraft toilets, she got her first job for an airline.

While working the front counter, she noticed a woman checking in was wearing an FAA badge. As she talked to her, she learned that the woman was also an aircraft mechanic. She told Viola to apply at a local aviation school and, as soon as the woman left, Viola found one, enrolled, and started the next week.

At the end of 2021, Viola graduated and received her A&P license.

“I kept telling myself that no one was going to stop me!” said Viola. “I had a lot of female support. Female instructors would tell me that it was not going to be easy in a male-dominated field, and they were right.”

After several experiences, Viola applied for a maintenance technician job at SkyWest. A few weeks later, she had her interview with her current manager, Chris Clem, who made her decision to choose SkyWest even easier.

“The help and openness SkyWest has given me has made me believe I made the right decision,” said Viola. “The other mechanics help me and answer my questions. And Chris always makes sure I have what I need to succeed.”

Viola recently finished her borescope inspection and is excited about her career at SkyWest.

“My advice to other women out there is don’t be afraid to ask for help, or to speak up and be heard, because you can do it just like I did!”

Allison Carroll – Dispatcher, HDQ

Allison Carroll started at SkyWest in 2013 and worked in various roles before becoming a dispatcher about a year ago.

When asked about her experience as a female dispatcher, Allison said, “We all have the same qualifications and the same goal, and I’m glad I can offer my professional perspective and viewpoint on situations.”

Women’s History Month stands out to Allison because it showcases how she is able to do what she does every day.

“It wasn’t long ago that women weren’t able to simply work for income or work under their own name,” said Allison. “I can do both.”

Allison enjoys seeing SkyWest’s support of women and the growing number of women who are working in every department throughout the company.

“It has come a long way, but I would love to see even more balance in the aviation industry,” said Allison.

Veronica Ortega – Mechanic III, MKE

When Veronica Ortega looked up information about becoming an aviation mechanic online, almost all the information materials depicted male technicians. Thankfully, that didn’t stop her. She quickly learned that anyone could do it and has worked hard to prove that there is a place for females in the field. Joining the ranks of other A&P mechanics felt like a whole new world to Veronica.

“I didn’t realize how big aviation was,” said Veronica. “But at SkyWest, I felt like I belonged.”

Reflecting on Women’s History Month, Veronica’s says her goal is to celebrate strong women who wanted to break out of the gender norms they were placed in.

“Women can do anything. We are strong!” said Veronica. “We can fix aircraft, fly aircraft, or anything else we set our minds to. No one can say we can’t; we can!”

During her time at SkyWest, Veronica has had many great A&P mechanics as role models – both men and women. All of them have taught her how to be a better aircraft mechanic.

“I did not come from a mechanical background, but I wanted to learn,” said Veronica. “If you are willing to learn and work hard, the SkyWest family will help you. Shout out to all the great mechanics in MKE!”

We are so glad to have difference-makers like Viola, Allison, Veronica, and many others on the SkyWest team! Find your place on our team by viewing our careers page today!

Mar 07

Family in the Flight Deck

Several years ago, Suzy and Donna Garrett made history when they took to the skies together as SkyWest’s first mother-daughter duo in the flight deck. On Jan. 23, 2022, the family reached a new milestone as Donna and her brother Mark were able to fly together with their mom, Suzy, joining them in the jumpseat.

“Having my mom in the jumpseat was the cherry on top,” said Mark. “It was easily the most fun I’ve had on a trip at SkyWest!”

Mark came to SkyWest in 2019 to follow in his family’s footsteps. Both of his parents and his sister Donna have all flown for SkyWest, so he said it made it an obvious choice.

“SkyWest’s reputation as one of the best regional airlines to work for sealed my decision,” said Mark. “The family feel at SkyWest goes beyond just my immediate family members working for the same company.”

Since joining the SkyWest team, Mark has been hoping to fly a trip with his sister and was thrilled when she upgraded to captain last year. The two were finally able to align schedules to fly two round trips from Chicago (ORD) to Des Moines, IA (DSM).

While Donna had flown previously with her brother during his flight training, this memorable trip was the first time they were able to fly a commercial flight together.

“Flying with my sister at SkyWest felt really comfortable. Years ago, we flew a cross country flight in a Cessna 172 from Oxnard, CA (OXR) to Oshkosh, WI (OSH) just after I had started learning how to fly,” said Mark. “Donna made all the major decisions during that trip and it felt like a captain and first officer situation. Our SkyWest trip reminded me of the old days of us flying together.”

The trip also gave Mark the chance to see how far Donna has progressed as a professional pilot.

“Her landings have come a long way since Oshkosh!” said Mark. “She has developed the attributes of a great captain. During this trip, she was my sister, Donna, but I also got to see her professional side of Captain Garrett.”

Are you interested in becoming part of the SkyWest family? Visit our careers page today!

Mar 01

Celebrating Women’s History Month

March marks the beginning of Women’s History Month; a time when we reflect on the role of women and their contributions throughout history. In the aviation industry, Emily Howell Warner made history as the first U.S. airline captain in 1976. Decades later, more females are in the flight deck, and at SkyWest we’re excited to see a growing number of all-female crews flying together.

“When I started flying 40 years ago, female pilots were extremely rare,” said Captain Lisa Johnson. “I am always excited to have a female first officer.”

Recently, Captain Johnson and the rest of her all-female crew were the first commercial crew to land at the grand opening of the newly renovated Concourse B at the Memphis International Airport in Memphis, Tennessee (MEM).

The first officer for the memorable trip was Bailey Parks who is currently in the process of upgrading to captain. Captain Johnson shared tips and experiences to encourage Bailey as she takes the next step in her career.

The flight attendants, Mary Tincher and Ella Ika, completed the standout female team.

The women all shared that they worked together seamlessly. The teamwork and communication set the tone for an amazing flight.

“Being a woman in a mostly male-dominated field, I really enjoy flying with other female crewmembers,” said Captain Johnson. “It brings another level of camaraderie.”

Captain Joni Thiesse, First Officer Hui Wang, and Flight Attendants Karissa Whitehead and Wendy MacArthur Peters, who were also part of an all-female crew during a multi-day trip out of DEN recently, say they too felt that unique camaraderie on their flight.

During the trip, passengers would cheer or give support to the all-female crew. One hotel staff member even commented on how cool it was to see an all-female crew at check-in.

“Being a part of the SkyWest team that supports a flight crew of all women who have taken strong measures to accomplish things was meaningful,” said Wendy. “It was great to receive acknowledgement from the passengers as well as the support from SkyWest. I am honored to be part of such a great team!”

SkyWest is proud to support our current female aviators and is continually working to encourage and support more women joining the industry. This month we are a sponsor for the annual Women in Aviation Conference in Nashville and were able to support several upcoming female aviators by paying the entrance fees for the conference.

Feb 28

Black History Month: Role Models

As part of Black History Month we have been sharing the stories of several SkyWest team members. There are also a number of the Black aviation professionals on the SkyWest team who have helped to pave the way at our airline too:

Beverley Mendez – Flight Attendant, SFO
Beverley Mendez was among our first Black flight attendants and was willing to share her story. Beverley wanted to work for an airline and came across an employment ad for United Express/SkyWest Airlines as a customer service agent in 1999. As she was talking to the hiring manager, they learned she was interested in being a flight attendant and referred her to InFlight.

In addition to flying the line, Beverly has worked as an InFlight instructor and chief flight attendant, now known as regional operations managers.

Beverley has a passion for customer service and caring for people and like most of the employees here at SkyWest, she has a passion for the sky and traveling.
“What I love most about Black History Month is an opportunity to educate, learn and share our contributions made as Americans,” said Beverley. “My most iconic Black history moment was made Feb. 16, 2013 when I met Colin Powell.”

Faz Faruki – The First Black Pilot at SkyWest
Faz Faruki always knew that he would fly. While growing up in Uganda, he was inspired by everything aviation as he listened to stories of the great Black aviators in America.

After moving to the U.S. to start his family, he knew it was time to test his wings. Faz started flying for SkyWest in 1986 out of Santa Barbara and was the first Black pilot on the team. He spent 27 years flying at SkyWest.
“I never thought about being the first of anything, let alone the first Black pilot at SkyWest,” said Faz. “I never focused on that because my time at SkyWest was great and everyone treated me so well.”

When asked about his time with SkyWest, Faz said, “From scheduling to dispatch, everyone made me feel welcome! The people I worked with made it a great experience. A great company that let me have a greater job”.

The highlight of his time here was flying with his son Shahn, who was a first officer with SkyWest, right before retiring.
“I feel honored because for me Black History Month means being a Black person who can work hard and not care about what everyone else is saying,” said Faz. “I hope someone is inspired along the way. I am grateful for my time as a pilot and I’m happy I flew with SkyWest, especially as the first Black pilot.”

Elamin Elamin – General Facility Maintenance, SLC

In 1998, Elamin Elamin started working at the SLC airport. During his time there, he worked alongside many SkyWest employees and knew he wanted to work for SkyWest. In 2007, he got his chance when he received a job offer at the SkyWest hangar in SLC.

I have a very large family here in the states and in Sudan, and I work hard for them,” said Elamin. “I love my job at SkyWest because I get to be with my family and I get to travel to see them more than I could anywhere else.
When asked about what this month means to him, Elamin said, “Black History Month is important because it reminds me to be grateful for so many things. I think hard on the time I’ve spent working for my family and the love I have for them. My wife is having a baby very soon and think of the love that is coming. This month I think of the gratitude I have for those in my life at home, work, and everyone around me.”

Eddie Owiti – First Officer, DEN
First Officer Eddie Owiti began his SkyWest journey nearly a year ago. Prior to joining the team, he was working for a government subcontractor as a UAV chase pilot in the Southern California high desert. He was nearing the ATP hour minimums and came to a crossroad in his flying career.

“I considered going the corporate route to build my time for the majors, however, many friends and previous colleagues that were at SkyWest convinced me otherwise,” said Eddie. “I am glad I made that decision! The last few months have been exciting and stressful, but ultimately rewarding. I have learned a lot and continue to learn every time I step onto the aircraft.”

Eddie’s fascination with airplanes began at age five. He continues to be fascinated by the wonder and science of flying and hopes to inspire others.

Recently, he had an experience that truly connected his love for aviation and Black History Month:

“I was eating my breakfast at SFO and I looked up to see a young, Black boy staring at me across the glass. He had his hands around his face and seemed to be very fascinated by my uniform. He smiled at me while pointing at the wings on my shirt and then proceeded to spread his arms like wings to mimic an airplane flying. I smiled back and told him he could be a pilot when he grows up.”

Feb 16

Black History Month: Showing Your Character

In honor of Black History Month, we asked several SkyWest team members to share their unique stories and tell us why this month is so important to them.

Hal Jackman Jr. – CRJ Captain, ORD

Five years ago, Hal Jackman, Jr. received a call from a friend who was also a SkyWest recruiter. He asked Hal if he’d ever considered flying for an airline. While they were discussing the merits of SkyWest and the prospect of Hal applying, the friend said, “Hey, hold on,” and Hal was put on hold. While he was waiting for his friend to return, he received another call. He answered and heard a friendly voice say, “Hal? This is Monica. I heard you’re interested in joining the SkyWest team!”

Hal was stunned and amused by his friend’s bold recruiting technique, but within a few minutes, Monica filled him in on SkyWest and he had an interview date.

“Now I’m flying for the best regional airline on earth,” said Hal. “And guess what, I’ve never looked back!”

During this month, Hal says he has been reflecting on his journey and what it means to be one of only a small number of Black airline pilots in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, just 3.9% of pilots are Black or African American.

“More than disbelief, I am filled with dedication each and every time I don my uniform and start my day,” Hal said. “I am dedicated to honoring and respecting the legacy of all those who paved the way for me to be where I am now. Undoubtedly, I soar on the wings of giants; giants like Emory Malick, the first African American to earn a pilot certificate in the United States, or Bessie Coleman, the first African American to earn an international pilot certificate, or the famed Tuskegee Airmen of WWII, or Captain Marlon Green, America’s first Black airline pilot who had to sue a legacy carrier just for the opportunity to earn a seat among his peers just a mere 60 years ago.”

These men and women, among others, were pioneers who helped make Hal’s dream of becoming a commercial pilot a reality.

“During this and every February I salute them, their achievements, and their sacrifice,” said Hal. “Because of them, I’ve been able to soar boldly in the direction of my dreams without looking back.”

Brandon Long – Supervisor Warranty, HDQ

Brandon Long was bit by the traveling bug at age 17 when his adventurous nature caused him to move across the country. He hasn’t stopped traveling since and, while his travels have taken him around the globe, his curiosity for the travel industry was piqued.

That intrigue brought him to SkyWest more than a year ago and he is excited about the opportunity to work in the airline industry. Since starting, he has gained an immense amount of knowledge about what happens in the aviation industry and how many people it takes to keep our aircraft flying.

When asked about what this month means to him and his transition into the aviation industry, Brandon said:

“Black History Month is all about integrity, leadership, and determination,” he said when asked about what this month means to him. “It’s about showing your character.”

The achievements made throughout history have changed the way we get to live today, and we are thankful for SkyWest team members like Hal and Brandon who continue to carry the torch, and who continue to act as role models for others to follow.

Feb 01

Celebrating Black History Month

February marks the start of Black History Month, honoring African American men and women and celebrating the contributions they’ve made.

This includes many of our own SkyWest employees. Throughout the month we’ll be sharing some of their stories and highlighting how they are making an impact or inspiring others around them.

Michelle McElwee – Flight Attendant, DTW

Michelle has been on the SkyWest team for more than three years. She was inspired to get her wings after seeing her daughter, who is also a flight attendant, join the industry and fall in love with aviation.

Her passion for all things aviation has also led her to write a children’s book called I Found My Wings. The book follows Shelly, a young, Black girl, who is apprehensive about her first flight experience. Michelle wanted to showcase the diversity of flying and give young Black girls and boys inspiration to travel and to believe in their own dreams and aspirations.

“This is what Black History Month is all about,” she said. “Being inspired by each other, dreaming, working, and representation.”

LaWanda Williams – Flight Attendant, DTW

LaWanda knew she wanted to work in the travel industry, and after learning about SkyWest, the choice was a no-brainer. She was initially excited about the flight privileges on each of our mainline partners, but soon after being hired she discovered how much she loves being part of our SkyWest team.

“My grandmother and mother were women who traveled and would share stories about the places they visited,” said LaWanda. “I was given the opportunity to fulfill my dream job and now their stories don’t compare to mine!”

For LaWanda, Black History Month means the world gets the opportunity to know the accomplishments Black people have contributed to making our world a better place. She remembers her grandfather’s candy company that makes peanut patties, peanut brittle, and peppermint candy. His sweet treats can still be found in grocery stores across Texas. Another standout memory for her is the Black women’s contributions to America’s moon landing.

“I love my job and that no two days are the same,” she said. “And, I am happy to share my story and remember my predecessors through Black History Month.”

Jan 12

Chasing Flight Attendant Dreams

SkyWest Flight Attendant Diane Hansen had big dreams to become a stewardess in the 1960s. Unfortunately, she never reached the 5’2” standard that was required.

“I had a measuring tape attached to my doorframe and I would measure myself, but I never grew,” she said. As there were no exceptions to the rules, Diane decided she would never be a flight attendant. Thankfully this didn’t dampen her love for the aviation industry.

In fact, years after putting her dream to become a flight attendant on hold, Diane became involved in the volunteer Navigator Program at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport where she helps passengers as they are flying in and out. Through her volunteer efforts for the last 17 years, she has also encountered many flight attendants in the airport. Eventually she thought, “This is my dream. If I don’t try now, I’ll lose my chance.”

Diane thought no one would want to hire a 70-year-old flight attendant but after applying to several airlines she received an offer from both SkyWest and Frontier Airlines.

“It was an easy decision to go with SkyWest,” she said. “It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve been here for three years and I’m having more fun than I could possibly believe.”

“You can’t say that you can’t do something because you’re too old,” said Diane. Her inspiring story is a great example of following your dreams and we are so happy to have her on the SkyWest team! If you’re ready to follow your aviation dreams, visit our careers page today!

Oct 29

SkyWest Pilot Shares His Fight With Cancer

For SkyWest pilot Bruce McNaughton, next month will mark 23 years since his last dose of chemotherapy. While not everyone is fortunate to beat cancer, Captain McNaughton is thankful for the extra time that has allowed him to see his kids grow up, and to continue his passion for aviation.

The Denver ERJ Captain was diagnosed in 1994 with hairy cell leukemia when he was serving in the Air Force. Following his diagnosis, he began treatment for the next six months.

“I remember the oncologist telling me that if I had to get cancer, this was the one,” Captain McNaughton recalled. “This particular cancer is considered an indolent disease; it takes its time. But there was still physical discomfort, life disruption, and the unknowns.”

In 1995, he returned to flight status and moved to another Air Force base. Then, during a checkup three years later, the flight surgeon noticed that Captain McNaughton’s blood count was trending down. A relapse was diagnosed and he resumed treatment. The following year, Captain McNaughton returned to flight status and has been disease-free ever since.

After retiring from the Air Force, Captain McNaughton joined the airline industry and flew commercially before taking some time away to work at a family-owned tax practice.

“I quickly realized how much I missed flying,” he said. “I put in an application to SkyWest in 2016, and I’ve been here ever since. It’s been great and I have really enjoyed being at SkyWest.”

When he’s not flying 35,000 feet in the air, Captain McNaughton can be found visiting with cancer patients as well as sending gifts to many who are fighting the disease throughout the country.

“When I started chemotherapy in 1994, I would go in every other Monday for six months,” he said. “During this time, I would get hooked up to an IV and the nurse would put a jar of “belly flops” – which are imperfect jelly beans – on the table next to me for a snack. It’s a whimsical diversion because you never know what flavor it’s going to be. So what I’ve done over the years is send a jar of belly flops to those I hear about who have cancer. I tell them my story and let them know that they are not alone.”

For Captain McNaughton, just being there for others is what it’s all about.

“I’ve had people tell me that they wanted to call me, but were hesitant because they didn’t know what to say,” he said. “So my message to those people is this: Please don’t avoid contact because you don’t know what to say. Just being there, or keeping in contact with a phone call, text, or postcard goes a long way.”

Congratulations Captain McNaughton on being cancer free the past 23 years. Your efforts to encourage and inspire others is shared by all of us at SkyWest in the fight against cancer.

Oct 15

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

SkyWest is proud to have a diverse team with many cultures and backgrounds represented throughout our workforce. This month we celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month and heard from many of our employees about what their heritage means to them and how it plays a role at SkyWest. Here’s what they had to say:

Paola Johnson — Flight Attendant, SLC

I was born in Santiago, Chile, and came to the United States when I was 10 years old. I’ll never forget that night and the bittersweet goodbyes. On that 10-hour flight, my love for aviation began thanks to an amazing flight attendant who took me under her wing. Though she was working first class, she constantly checked up on me and spoiled me with inflight goodies (pillow, blanket, snacks, and coloring books). It was that moment when I said to myself, “I want to be just like her.” The kindness she showed me really impacted me and inspired me to become a flight attendant just like her.

Years later, one of my friends told me about a SkyWest hiring event that was being held in Salt Lake City the following day. I thought the idea of possibly interviewing the very next day was crazy, but I took my chances, and five years later, here I am!

After my first year at SkyWest, I jumped at the opportunity to join the InFlight recruitment team. I love going to recruitment events and seeing not only the excitement that so many applicants have, but giving them the same opportunities that I was given. I’ll never forget when I asked an applicant a question and he responded by saying that it was inspiring and motivating for him to see a Latina flight attendant conducting his interview. It made him proud and happy to see diversity here at SkyWest.

In July, I celebrated my five-year work anniversary at SkyWest and my experiences have been nothing but amazing. I’m so grateful for the many friendships that I’ve built here and the places I’ve been able to see and explore. I’m very grateful for all the opportunities SkyWest has provided for me and my family!

Eventually, my family went back to Chile, but they left me with many valuable lessons that I still cherish to this day: the value of hard work, having courage and believing in yourself – even if you have to start over. As a mom, I hope that I’m teaching my daughters that same work ethic and showing them that anything is possible, no matter where they come from.

Nayomie Burns — Flight Attendant, DFW

I have always wanted to be a flight attendant. I grew up an Army brat (child), and lived in some pretty diverse places. Both of my parents were born and raised in Puerto Rico and married very young. My mom always instilled in us to get an education and to do better than they did. So, although my desire was to become a flight attendant after high school, I obeyed and went to college.

I truly enjoyed my time as a college student and made such great friends. But again, I was in rural Louisiana at the time and people did not know that Puerto Ricans could have such dark skin. I always had to explain myself to others, but that is one thing that I’ve never had to do at SkyWest.

When I joined the SkyWest family as a flight attendant, I said to myself, “I am done. I am in my forever career.” I’m so glad I came here and didn’t go elsewhere. I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many great people and have met more Latinx pilots than I can count. I have been inspired by them and countless others to try my hand on the other side of the door.

I started taking flight lessons a couple of years ago and finally received my PPL this past June – right as I transferred to Dallas (DFW). During this time, I have met so many Latinx pilots and plan to join them one day as an Afro-Latina, which I am proud to be. I really appreciate the opportunities that SkyWest affords me and how they embrace and encourage individuality while still being part of a larger community.

Rene Azahar — CRJ Captain, FAT

SkyWest CRJ Captain Rene Azahar credits his father for sparking his passion for aviation and for helping him get to where he is today.

“Growing up, my dad would take me over to Los Angeles International Airport to watch the planes take off and land. It was a thrill! When we weren’t at the airport, you could find us flying model airplanes at the park.”

A few years later, the family moved to Santa Maria, California, right behind the airport. From his backyard, Captain Azahar could see the SkyWest planes take off and land. It was during this time that Captain Azahar made it his goal to be a commercial airline pilot for SkyWest one day.

With strong family support and his dad telling him to never give up on his dream, Captain Azahar fulfilled that promise in 2017 when he was hired at SkyWest.

Click here to read more about Captain Azahar’s inspiring path to becoming a commercial airline pilot.

JJ Jimenez Lopez — Flight Attendant, DFW

For SkyWest Flight Attendant JJ Jimenez Lopez, working in the aviation industry wasn’t something that had ever crossed his mind growing up. That all changed when a friend and fellow SkyWest Flight Attendant Vanna Hoang, encouraged him to look into it.

“Vanna introduced me to SkyWest and the aviation industry, and the next minute I’m covering one of her trips,” said JJ. “How cool is that! Every time I see Vanna I make sure to thank her because SkyWest has changed my life.”

For JJ, who recently celebrated his five-year work anniversary this summer, it all wouldn’t have been possible without the help of his parents who made a number of sacrifices so that he could have a better life.

“I’m proud of my heritage. It means everything to me,” said the Dallas-based flight attendant. “My parents taught me early on about the importance of hard work, dedication, and being proud of where I come from and who I am. My parents came from nothing and gave my siblings and me a better life. Their sacrifice and love is something that I’ll never forget.”

Click here to read more about JJ’s path to becoming a flight attendant.