Families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Seattle are often dealing with high stress and anxiety as their children are undergoing serious medical treatment. To help, the House offers families the chance to relax with movie nights each weekend.
SkyWest people from Seattle recently had the chance to host a movie night and to spend time with some of the families. It was an experience the volunteers described as meaningful, humbling, and deeply rewarding.
“This event was all about bringing a bit of happiness and escape to the families,” said Siobahn R., SEA domicile support specialist. “It was incredibly rewarding to see everyone come together, laugh and enjoy the movie.”
Siobahn, along with several flight attendants and pilots, helped make the evening memorable by setting out treats, tidying the theater area, and welcoming families in for a showing of Disney‑Pixar’s Planes. The volunteers said creating a warm, comfortable environment for families navigating difficult medical journeys was a privilege and a reminder of why giving back matters.
“Even though these kids are sick, they are still silly, goofy kids,” Captain Ray said. “It was refreshing to see. I also went home feeling so fortunate that my family is healthy. A good reminder that none of us are owed tomorrow.”
The night was also an opportunity to connect with families who need it most.
“It felt great to give back to the Seattle community. Everyone who volunteered was enthusiastic, and it felt good to provide a fun night for the families,” said First Officer Justin. “I’m looking forward to helping more in the future.”
The Ronald McDonald House mission, to provide comfort, care and resources to families with seriously ill children, relies on strong community support. Thank you to our people in Seattle and across the system for helping to support these types of organizations and for your commitment to give back in the communities where we live and work.
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.
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.
Happy Father’s Day to all our SkyWest dads and to the fathers who encouraged us to follow our dreams! Here’s what a few SkyWest people had to say about the dads in their lives in honor of Father’s Day.
Kalley G., ERJ First Officer (MSP)
“Happy Father’s Day, Dad! I’m incredibly thankful to have you in my life and to enjoy our love for aviation together! I wouldn’t be the person I am today without both you and Mom! Sending love to you both!”
Tom T., Agt Ramp (SGU)
“My dad is still with us and l continue to learn from him. He is now a great-grandfather and is very involved with his family. I have fond memories of herding sheep with him as a kid. He taught me to work hard and to always have a positive attitude. I’ve rarely heard him complain. He is a great example to us!”
Wes T., Agt Ramp (SGU)
“My favorite trait of my dad is his ability to get along with absolutely everyone. You give him a few minutes with a stranger, and they will be friends in no time at all. He’s always been more on the laid-back side but still we always knew he was in charge; I feel like I have learned to teach my kids the life lessons they need in a similar type of way.
“We’ve also had a few adventures along the way. This photo was taken in Maui, Hawaii when I went with my parents to a work retreat. It was a long time ago but was a fun trip. Another time, my dad was out of town for work in Portland Oregon, and he called me to meet him at a great barbecue restaurant he stumbled upon. I had a couple of days off, so I was able join him. We drove to the restaurant and arrived at a little hole in the wall barbecue restaurant. As soon as we entered people were amazed to see that we found the place. I was wondering the same thing at the time, but the food was amazing, and we had a great time.”
Amber O., InFlight Support Center (SLC)
“I first met Keith in my earlier years at SkyWest when I was working on the ramp, and he was in maintenance. He was always fun to crack jokes with. Later, he married my mom, and he immediately loved all of us like we were his own. Keith, your love for my family is genuine, and I am so grateful for that. You are always there to lend a hand and share a good joke. I love going on our long walks and having our deep chats; they are truly the highlight of my day. Happy Father’s Day!”
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and at SkyWest we take pride in the rich diversity of our team and the various backgrounds and cultures of our people.
Lika F. – Coordinator Crew Admin, HDQ
Lika, a coordinator crew admin at HDQ, doesn’t limit celebrating her culture to just the month of May; she embraces every opportunity to share what her heritage means to her and how it influences her life and career at SkyWest.
“Recognizing AAPI Heritage Month is important to me because it acknowledges the significant achievements, contributions, and impact of Asian American and Pacific Islander individuals and communities in history, culture, and society,” Lika explains.
As a member of the Pacific Islander community, specifically from the island of Samoa, Lika sees this month as a beautiful reminder to preserve cultural memory and to take pride in her identity. One key aspect of her heritage being her family and their history as farmers on the island, a connection of land and people that she describes as, “deeply rooted in the Samoan people.”
“The land is a source of life,” Lika said. “My family spends a lot of time outdoors together maintaining our cacao, plantain, and taro plantations. Once harvesting season comes, we prepare the crops to be taken to the farmers market for sale. We are planters and farmers. This is who we are, and it’s a part of who I am.”
So, how does Lika celebrate her culture? For her, it’s all about family and community.
“There’s no better way to celebrate than being surrounded by family at a cookout,” she says. “Traditional Siva or dancing is always the highlight of any Samoan cultural celebration. Whether it’s the art of dance and storytelling, listening to cultural music, learning and speaking the native language, or wearing traditional garments, there are many ways to celebrate our culture.”
The desire to be surrounded by a positive culture and community was an important part of Lika’s journey to SkyWest.
“I came to SkyWest after hearing a lot of positive feedback about the culture and leadership,” Lika says. “Along with its prestigious reputation, SkyWest also presented endless opportunities for professional growth and development.”
Captain Johnny C. – ERJ Captain, ORD
Captain Johnny C.’s journey with SkyWest began long before he became an airline pilot. As an exchange student during his first visit to the United States, his initial flight to his host family was operated by SkyWest.
“I quickly noticed the immense presence this airline had in the country,” Captain Johnny C. recalled. “I knew then that SkyWest would offer me a diverse range of flying experiences, unlike any other.”
This month, Captain Johnny C. has been reflecting on his journey from Taiwan to the Midwest and the significant importance of AAPI recognition.
“Understanding and embracing our differences allows us to break out of our shells,” he said. “Even though we are far from our home countries, this helps us feel closer to our heritage. This month, we can truly live, laugh, and smile as we celebrate our cultural differences through food, clothing, and various activities.”
For Captain Johnny C., the most unique aspect of his culture back home is the variety of street food that he misses celebrating. He also misses seeing others wearing traditional clothes, as it was a way to show pride in their ancestors and tribes.
“I’m grateful to be a part of this month’s celebration of AAPI,” said Captain Johnny C. “Our cultures are like a massive melting pot. Although we may look different, we share many similarities and view each other as family. That’s what it’s all about – the support we give our brothers and sisters to succeed in this industry, where we make up only a fraction of it.”
Throughout the month, we will feature updates from employees across the operation sharing their thoughts about what AAPI Month means to them and how their culture and background have shaped their experience at SkyWest.
The choice to become a pilot is a monumental decision and it comes in many shapes and sizes. For some, it starts as a childhood dream and, for others, it comes from their adventurous spirit and desire to see the world. First Officer Colton S.’s decision came thanks to the example of his brother and has led him to a fulfilling and invigorating career.
Colton’s brother, Captain Cody S., joined the SkyWest team in 2001. As Captain Cody was transitioning from the E175 to the CRJ in 2019, his simulator instructor, Captain Adam M., encouraged him to share the experience with his friends and family. This gesture not only gave Colton a chance to learn more about what it is really like to fly an aircraft but led to his decision to pursue a career in the skies.
“[Cody sharing his experience] was the moment that really changed everything for me,” Colton said. “It was really eye-opening and helped me understand why my brother enjoyed his career so much. I left [the conversation] with the realization that I was not enjoying what I did for a living and that someday I wanted to become an airline pilot for SkyWest, whatever it took to get there.”
“I feel for Colton it was a life-changing experience when he realized this is something he could do, and it could provide a stable career for him and his wife’s future,” Captain Adam M. said.
Shortly after, Colton enrolled in flight school at ATP in Ogden, quit his job, and surprised his brother Cody with the news a few days before class began by wearing his new school’s apparel. Colton enjoyed his time as a student at ATP, earning his CFI, CFII, and MEI. While building his hours, he became a flight instructor, then a lead flight instructor at ATP, and joined the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program.
“I was a SkyWest cadet, and it was truly the only airline that I had considered or looked into, so I am fortunate to have made it here,” Colton said.
Colton has since graduated from flight school and is currently a SLC-based first officer.
“This has truly been a full-circle journey from the start of my aviation pursuit to where I am today,” Colton shared. “I want to thank Captain Adam M., my simulator instructor, for playing such a big role in a major life-changing decision, and I hope to fly with him someday! Also, I want to thank my brother Cody for all of his support throughout my aviation journey so far and for being a great example to me. We are both looking forward to flying together in the near future!”
Thank you, Captain Adam M. and Captain Cody S., for sharing your love for aviation. Welcome to the SkyWest family, Colton!
SkyWest operates nearly 2,000 flights every day. In just the last few months, several of these flights have been operated by an all-female flight crew. While the overall flight itself may be ordinary, check out what our people had to say about these flights.
ERJ Captain Claire F. and Flight Attendant Toni M. were part of an all-female crew that had the chance to meet SkyWest, President and CEO Chip Childs.
“I always love when we have an all-female crew,” Captain Claire F. said. “It’s always a LOT of fun!”
All-female crews provide a great opportunity for customers to see that the aviation industry is for everyone, no matter your gender.
“If you can see her, you really can be her,” Captain Claire F. added.
For Toni, being a part of an all-female crew is always heart-warming.
“Not only are SkyWest flight attendants and pilots among the best in the aviation industry but whenever I work with an all-female crew, I have an increased sense of pride that our company values diversity, equity and inclusion,” Toni said. “And our passengers benefit from our collective expertise when they fly with us.”
Lisa H., a Chicago-based flight attendant is proud of all the women that represent SkyWest and aviation in general. She was also extremely honored of be a part of an all-female crew.
“This does not happen very often and on the occasion that it does, it feels quite amazing,” she said.
Lisa described Women’s History Month as a chance “to show young girls to set their goals high and to be able to see women who have achieved their dreams.”
First Officer Kalley G. and Flight Attendant Debra A. said they were especially excited when they learned they were part of an all-female crew on International Women’s Day. Debra described it as “PURE JOY,” and described the passenger’s joyful shock when they realized the unique situation. Many even asked to take pictures with the crew.
“I’m so proud to be part of SkyWest,” Debra said.
“It is incredibly amazing to be a part of an all-female crew,” Kalley said. “We did receive a lot of recognition and I truly think that an all-female crew is so important. Years back when I was a child, I really did not know that women could be an airline pilot. Having an all-female crew shows others that their hopes and dreams are achievable and limitless… The industry is a great workplace for women and there is plenty more room for those future aviators! The advice I would give to women who are interested in joining the industry is that you can do both: be a woman and be a pilot. You do not have to change who you are to fit in. It’s going to take a lot of hard work and commitment but enjoy the journey because it is so worth it!”
Flight Attendant Favi M. and CRJ First Officer Alex Aragon H. experienced their first all-female flight together enroute from Sacramento (SMF) to San Francisco (SFO).
“In my six years of aviation I have never flown with another woman, let alone an entire female flight crew,” Alex said. “The flight itself was ordinary but meant much more to myself and my coworkers.”
“I think this picture dictates the beauty of how far we can strive in our careers here at SkyWest,” Favi explains. “I am definitely a proud employee and proud to be a part of such an amazing organization.”
In January, Captain Kimberly P., First Officer Rachel M., and Flight Attendants Christina H. and Traci N. safely brought passengers to Durango, Colorado (DRO), Phoenix (PHX), and Eugene, Oregon (EUG) where they were grounded due to an ice storm. Despite the setback, these remarkable women maintained their spirits, even lending a hand to the hotel staff in cleaning up the restaurant area.
For Rachel, being a part of an all-female crew was empowering and she is hopeful to see more people getting involved in groups like the Ninety Nines or Women in Aviation.
Captain Kimberly P. shared that flying with an all-female crew provides a “different type of camaraderie” and a relaxed but upbeat atmosphere.
“Don’t doubt yourself because you’re a woman,” Captain Kimberly P. encourages. “I find that some of the most dedicated pilots I’ve flown with are females, and there’s nothing you can’t do if you put your mind to it!”
Today is International Women’s Day. The story of women in aviation is one of courage, perseverance, and boundless ambition. From the earliest aviators who broke barriers to the modern-day pioneers who continue to push the boundaries of possibility, women have made groundbreaking contributions at SkyWest and across the aviation industry.
Learn more about some of their impressive journeys:
First Female SkyWest Captain: Captain Mary C.
Captain Mary C. joined SkyWest in 1985 and dedicated 32 years of service to SkyWest.
She began her SkyWest journey during the SkyWest/SunAire merger after being rejected at other companies strictly because she was female.
“There were corporate jobs, and you knew you were being turned down because you were a female. They could actually tell you that back then,” said Captain Mary C.
First Female SkyWest Chief Pilot: Captain Laura G.
For Captain Laura G., joining the SkyWest team almost 19 years ago was the easiest decision she made, drawn by the culture of happiness and kindness she observed in crewmembers.
“To summarize my career at SkyWest in one word would be: gratitude,” Captain Laura G. said. “I have had someone at each of step of my career at SkyWest listening, encouraging, and giving me ideas how to navigate the storms and challenges we all face.”
Captain Laura highlighted the importance of perseverance and support in facing the challenges of juggling a personal life and a career in aviation. Her most trusted values are teamwork and mentorship.
Captain Laura G.’s advice to others: “Reach out to mentors, fellow aviators, chief pilots, aviation representatives, and network when you face a storm that could impact your career. Our paths around storms may look different, but the end goals of gorgeous smooth skies after best achieved when we are not alone.”
First SkyWest Flight Attendant: Randi H.
In 1986, Randi was hired as the first SkyWest flight attendant and was part of the first training class consisting of 25 flight attendants.
First Female SkyWest Mechanic: Bobbi S.
Bobbi was hired as one of the first female mechanics at SkyWest Airlines, her journey began nearly 35 years ago. She is currently based in Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC) and is a lead inspector in maintenance.
First Female Pilot: Harriet Quimby Harriet Quimby was the first licensed female pilot in America. Her inspiration came from a visit to an air show at Belmont Park in October 1910. She took flying lessons at the Moisant School of Aviation in Hempstead, Long Island before earning her pilot’s license on Aug. 1, 1911.
First Flight Attendant: Ellen Church In 1930, Ellen Church became the first female flight attendant, known then as a stewardess. Originally a nurse, Ellen convinced Steve Stimpson, a Boeing Air Transport traffic manager, that the presence of women nurses would help relieve the traveling public’s fear of flying. Previously, it was the co-pilot’s job to look after the passengers.
First Female Aircraft Mechanic: Phoebe Omlie Phoebe Omlie was the first female recipient of an Airplane Mechanic’s License in 1927. She was also the first woman to receive a Transport Pilot’s License and the first woman government official in aviation, appointed by President Roosevelt as the special assistant for air intelligence of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (the predecessor of NASA).
Throughout the month we’ve heard incredible stories from SkyWest people about their journeys to aviation and how their culture has influenced their careers. Before Black History Month ends, we want to highlight the experience of MSP-based First Officer Ryan B., an aviation pioneer for his family and community.
Ryan B. – First Officer CRJ
CRJ First Officer Ryan is proud to be a Black aviator and even prouder to be the first in his family to achieve this milestone.
“Being an airline pilot is something that I wanted to do since I was a kid,” said Ryan. “I did not think it would be possible for a person like me to achieve their dream. It took me sitting in an accounting class and watching planes fly into the Chicago O’Hare Airport to make the switch.”
Realizing he couldn’t continue doing something he didn’t love, Ryan took a chance on his aviation dreams. His pilot journey began in 2017 at Purdue University; continued through instructing in White Plains, New York; and finally obtaining his Airline Transport Pilot license in Salt Lake City, Utah. He joined the SkyWest team in 2021, accomplishing his childhood dream of becoming an airline pilot.
“SkyWest has given me the opportunity to live my lifelong dream,” said Ryan. “Some of the best moments for me here at SkyWest are when a passenger or a ramp worker tells me how happy they are to see someone like them in the flight deck. Not only does it inspire them to achieve greatness, but it inspires me to work harder towards my goal of being a Captain at one of our major airlines.”
For Ryan, Black History Month means taking advantage of all the opportunities life presents and making something spectacular with it. He credits the unwavering support of his family, friends, and colleagues at SkyWest, without whom his achievements wouldn’t have been possible.
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Throughout the month, we’ve also celebrated the remarkable achievements of individuals like Maintenance Admin Mike M. and Flight Attendant Myah D., whose unwavering resolve exemplifies the boundless potential within us all.
