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.”
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.
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.
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.”
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.
Wyatt S., a Tucson-based mechanic, joined SkyWest in March 2023 but he has been “obsessed” with airplanes since he was a kid. At 16 he drove an old truck that required a bit of work to keep it running. Wyatt became fond of taking things apart, fixing them up, and working with his hands. So, when he found the Southern Arizona Teen Aviation program, he was able to combine his love for fixing things and aviation by building an airplane.
The project introduced Wyatt to many things including wiring, working with sheet metal and fiber glass, people skills, tool organization, following instructions, and procedures. He also learned all about making mistakes: everyone makes them and how to move forward. Through it all, Wyatt worked on the first two planes that were built by teenagers in the program and was able to help sign them off as airworthy.
“I was there for that approval,” Wyatt said. “Seeing both of those airplanes fly for the first time was awesome.”
After graduating high school, Wyatt completed the Aviation Maintenance program at Pima Community College before joining SkyWest.
“SkyWest was hiring, and everything went smoothly,” he said, knowing he was in the right place. “Once I got in, it was all just awesome.”
His contributions and hard work at SkyWest have also been appreciated by his team in TUS.
“Wyatt is a great mechanic!” said James H., TUS manager of maintenance.
Wyatt credits Southern Arizona Teen Aviation for where he is now.
“I am out of school, I make good money, and I love my job,” he shared. “Not many people can say that.”
So, when the program offered Wyatt the chance to return as a mentor, he jumped on the opportunity.
“I thought about how good it was for me and now I wanted to help the program and the students as they figure out what they want to do and how to pursue it,” he added.
Now, nearly every Monday, Wyatt meets with fellow mentors to plan what the students will work on for the day, preparing instructions and materials. Once the kids arrive, he oversees them, letting them figure things out and offering guidance and answering questions when needed.
He also continually encourages anyone interested in aviation to get involved in similar programs.
“It’s a very valuable learning experience,” Wyatt said. “Go to camps and experiences and find whatever entry level programs that you can. If you can’t find any, go find someone and just talk to them. Everybody in aviation, for the most part, was helped by someone to get where they are. So they are very willing to help you reach your goals.”
As we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we are excited to highlight Mechanics Leonardo and Horacio who recently shared their thoughts on how their culture has influenced their careers.
Leonardo, MX II (MKE) Leonardo joined SkyWest’s maintenance team in Milwaukee because he wanted to be at a company he respected and that would allow him to grow in his career.
“I come from two Mexican migrant parents,” he shared. “My father came here at 16 and later met my mom while working at a local tannery. They always assured me that success will not be determined by my heritage and reminded me that perseverance will always be in my blood. That’s been true to this day.”
Leonardo enjoys incorporating Mexican, American, and Puerto Rican traditions into everyday life. From holidays with family to the food on their plates, his heritage touches all aspects of his life, and it started with his family.
He says that recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it helps to promote an open mind, which builds more teamwork with those around him.
“In a work environment that is crucial,” he said.
Horacio, MX Fleet Service (PSP) Horacio didn’t originally expect to work at SkyWest seven years ago but he knew he wanted to be part of the aviation industry. With that goal in mind, he stopped by the maintenance hangar in Palm Springs and was immediately impressed with the team he met.
“Thanks to God and the manager Cesar V.,” he said. “I was given this opportunity and the confidence to work for SkyWest Airlines. Since then, my loyalty to SkyWest remains to this day.”
During his time at SkyWest, Horacio has learned a lot about aviation and knows he made the right choice in joining the industry. He’s also been grateful for the support he has felt in in sharing his background and culture with his team.
“Showcasing the achievements of Hispanic culture can help younger generations set and achieve their future goals,” he emphasized.
Celebrating his Mexican culture is something Horacio cherishes deeply and something he does in various ways, characterized by happiness and a strong sense of family unity. Traditions such as Day of the Dead; Mexican Independence Day; and traditional food, dances, and music are integral parts of these celebrations.
“Although different, many Hispanic traditions share customs and can help people identify themselves with other Hispanics,” he said.
One of Horacio’s fondest memories is the tradition of posadas in December. An event that takes place over nine nights in December and is organized by neighbors to commemorate the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary before Jesus was born.
“Along with everyone in the neighborhood, we make a tour with candles and ask for lodging in the houses,” he said. “Piñatas are broken, filled with fruit like oranges, cane, jicama, and tejocote (little apple). We receive a bag called ‘Aguinaldo,’ filled with animal crackers, candy, and peanuts. We drink fruit punch and socialize with everyone who attends this event.”
Horacio believes that by sharing these memories, he can help keep his culture and traditions alive and celebrated.
Thank you, Leonardo and Horacio, for sharing your stories with us. We are fortunate for the influence and difference you have made on our SkyWest team!
Whether you are a survivor, advocate, community organizer, or co-survivor, cancer touches us all. This October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will share the inspiring stories and events of the SkyWest people who are actively fighting cancer of all types in their communities.
Recently, our SBN Maintenance team participated in a charity golf event to support women battling cancer.
The sunny weather, coupled with the enthusiasm of the participants, created a perfect atmosphere for a day of fun and giving back to a nonprofit organization called Hello Gorgeous. This foundation offers professional makeovers to women who are undergoing cancer treatment, so that they can feel confident and beautiful again.
“I have supported this organization for over 15 years,” Manager of Parts Penny M. said. “As a former cosmetologist, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact it has on women to lose their hair during treatment. Seeing the smile on someone’s face after being given a full makeover is priceless.”
Penny is deeply passionate about helping women in their fight against cancer, as she has seen the lasting effects the disease has had on many of her friends and family.
“I volunteer for all the events that are held locally,” Penny explains. “My favorite part of the golf event is to see so many men participate. It helps them to not feel so helpless when their wife, mother, sister, or daughter is diagnosed with cancer. Supporting an organization like this makes them feel like they are making a difference.”
The golf course provided an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. As members of the MX team made their way through the course, they were greeted with various on-course activities, like a longest-drive contest and closest-to-the-pin challenge that added an extra element of team building to the day.
“I am so proud to have some of my SBN MX team join me in supporting women battling cancer,” Penny said. “A special thank you to Brian W., Ryan P., Joey R., and Zachary M., who gave generously of their time and money to help a great cause.”
Amelia Earhart Day is celebrated each July to recognize the pioneering achievements she made for women in aviation. The organizers behind the Amelia Earhart Festival in Atchison, Kansas continue this effort by honoring outstanding aviation professionals each year who are making a difference in the industry. This year, they presented the Pioneering Achievement Award to SkyWest First Officer Kamia B. for her career achievements and community contributions.
“Given her journey from homelessness to flight instructor, Kamia has a compelling story to tell,” said museum and festival coordinator Maggie Nelson Collins.
Kamia was recognized and accepted the award from Amelia Rose Earhart (no relation to the pioneer Amelia Earhart), who had won the Pioneering Achievement Award almost 10 years ago and had provided a scholarship to Kamia early in her flight training.
“It means so much to me that SkyWest cares about my achievements and is willing to be part of such a glorious occasion. I love this company and truly feel like part of a family,” said Kamia. “I’m excited to upgrade as soon as I get my hours and do the best job I can here.”
SkyWest, Inc. Board Chairman James Welch and Director of Flight Operations and Company Chief Pilot Jessica Mulligan, and their spouses, attended the event and were excited for the opportunity to recognize Kamia.
“The event was fantastic,” said Jessica Mulligan, Director of Flight Operations and SkyWest Company Chief Pilot. “Kamia’s speech was raw, endearing, and motivating. She did a wonderful job discussing the obstacles she has overcome and providing advice and inspiration to others. It was a privilege to support her and be part of the festivities.”
Congratulations, Kamia, on receiving this prestigious recognition and for continuing to inspire others to pursue their dreams. Learn more about how you can take to the skies as a SkyWest pilot.
