Tag Archives: SkyWest Family

May 10

Happy Mother’s Day!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Captain Kate R. – DEN Captain ERJ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Captain Penny H. – DEN Captain ERJ

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

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

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

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

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

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

May 01

Celebrating our AAPI Colleagues!

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

Michael L. – DVL Agt Cross Utilized

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Magdalene F. – BOI Clerk Parts III

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sijin R. – DEN First Officer CRJ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Apr 08

SkyWest Team Gives Back In Idaho Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mar 31

Celebrating Women’s History Month!

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

Jessica T. – DEN Captain ERJ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scarlett O.S. – PSP Mechanic II

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phally H. – DFW Flight Attendant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lexci L. – ORD Mechanic III

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

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

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

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

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

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

Noelle S. – DEN First Officer ERJ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Allison Z. – OKC Mechanic II

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

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

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

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

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

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

Feb 23

Celebrating Black History Month!

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

Chuck N. – DTW CRJ First Officer

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tondalah S. – DFW InFlight Admin Assistant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keith J. – DEN ERJ First Officer

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Oct 04

Hispanic Heritage Month: Cultural Influences

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!