Tag Archives: SkyWest

Sep 29

Hispanic Heritage Month: Sharing our Culture

As we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we recognize the variety of backgrounds and cultures that make up the SkyWest team. Diana G., mechanic – IAH and Marisol C., AO training instructor shared their thoughts on the importance of this month and how their culture has influenced their careers.

What brought you to SkyWest?

Diana: I attended a recruitment event in Palm Springs (PSP) and was hired as a flight attendant. As a first-generation Mexican American, the world of aviation seemed so foreign to me, but I was somehow always drawn to it. As a flight attendant, I worked alongside crewmembers, gate agents, ramp agents, caterers, and cleaners. I felt very privileged to work with such a hard-working group of people and yet, it was always the aircraft maintenance technicians that captivated my attention the most.

My background as an automotive technician allowed me to work well with my hands and becoming an aircraft mechanic seemed like an obvious choice. I took advantage of SkyWest’s Professional Leave Program (PRO), and I went back to school to receive my Aircraft and Powerplant licenses. This month marks eight months as a certified aircraft mechanic for SkyWest.

Marisol: I was working for an engineering company when my father was diagnosed with cancer. After a family meeting about his diagnosis, and how we could best support our parents, my family and I decided that I would transition to a part-time position to assist in caring for my father. My search for a career with this type of flexibility lead me to SkyWest. I was hired as a part-time Cross Utilized agent in Harlingen, Texas (HRL).

While my father followed his treatment plan to beat cancer, I followed a new career path within aviation. I have held several roles in my time here and each one has connected me with amazing individuals. Their wisdom and allyship has supported me throughout my career and as I train new agents on their journey with SkyWest. To everyone who reads this, you can make your aviation dreams come true, “Echale ganas (give it all you got)!”

Why is it important to recognize Hispanic Heritage month?

Diana: I am a very proud to be Mexican American, and I take pride in my culture. The rich history, the incredible music, the tasty and flavorful food, all of which makes me so grateful for my heritage. Growing up with Mexican parents who did not speak English, and immigrating to United States against all odds, they were able to teach my siblings and I the power of perseverance and hard work. To this day they are strong, independent entrepreneurs, yet always put family first. Together, we love celebrating the roots of our family and origin, especially during Hispanic Heritage Month!

Marisol: Opportunities to celebrate or embrace culture will always lead to meaningful connections! More importantly, it promotes respect, enhances communication, creates an opportunity to meet new people, and can create a safe environment for all races. As a Mexican American, I live in two worlds. It is not something I thought about until I joined the workforce. Especially when I’m speaking to colleagues or customers, and I transition between both worlds by speaking Spanish and English, it fills my heart. Everything reflects me as an individual. It reflects my family name. It reflects my community. No matter the challenge I repeat my mantra, “Echale ganas!”

How has your culture influenced your career?

Diana: Being a Mexican American woman I know I’m a minority, but that only pushes me to do better and work harder than most. Because of my cultural values, I’ve learned to do this and not complain about what’s necessary for my success. I know that facing these challenges have shaped me since I was young. This perseverance has allowed me to have a high motivation and drive to succeed in achieving my dreams. I dedicate myself to my career fully and proudly, thanks to what I’ve overcome as a Mexican American woman.

Marisol: It’s been nothing but uplifted and embraced. Because of the diversity in my community and the work groups that surrounds me, my career at SkyWest has seen nothing but enrichment and support.

During my time with SkyWest, I’ve felt that my voice has always been heard and that my heritage and journey have never been stereotyped. The culture at SkyWest creates an environment that allows our voices and ideals to be heard, and embraces our cultural differences. My career has been enriched by SkyWest’s need to recognize us all individually, and they’ve done this by inviting those of different cultures to share their background and experiences in various ways, sharing their story with all of SkyWest.

SkyWest also offers resources for those that may not have been exposed to other cultures through the Diversity & Inclusion page on SkyWest Online. It offers videos to reinvent thoughts or assumptions someone may have. I applaud the pledge SkyWest has made to not allow ignorance to prevent our growth as a company.

How do you celebrate this month?

Diana: This year I was married on Mexican Independence Day, Sept. 16, and was able to celebrate with my guests. Most of them were non-Hispanic and I wanted to share as much of my culture as I could with them. We stopped at nothing to highlight my culture and make new family feel most welcomed! We had a variety of Hispanic foods, colorful decorations with flowers, and classical Latin tunes including Cumbia, Merengue, Salsa, and Tango. An important part of my culture is dancing, and it’s one of the most important traditions in my family. It felt great to share that with everyone!

Thank you, Diana and Marisol, for sharing your stories with us and helping us understand the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month. We are fortunate for the influence and difference you have made on our SkyWest team!

Aug 09

SkyWest Culture: Casting a Line for Connections

It all started back in 2015 when a group of SkyWest mechanics in Colorado Springs decided to put their passion and skills for fishing to the test through a friendly competition. The idea took off, and the first fishing tournament resulted in an unforgettable event filled with laughter, fishing tales, and the thrill of the catch. After just one year they were hooked, and that initial group vowed to make it an annual affair. Now, nine years later, it has now evolved to include employees from other SkyWest teams, their families, and continues to provide opportunities for camaraderie, connection, and giving back.

“We not only compete for the biggest catch but also compete in acts of kindness and generosity, giving back to our community and supporting charitable causes,” said Bruce Chang, SkyWest maintenance training instructor.

Bruce was one of the first to put the idea of a fishing tournament together. He says its uniqueness lies not only in the friendship it fosters among the SkyWest employees but also in the culture of giving that surrounds the event.

To participate, individuals from any SkyWest team or location pay an entrance fee with proceeds going towards prizes or being donated to organizations like Trout Unlimited. Prizes have also been donated by colleagues and fishing companies. These have included fishing gear and accessories, along with SkyWest apparel and merchandise, with the goal of being able to provide a prize to every child who participates in the tournament. This approach has helped foster a sense of belonging and strengthen connections within the SkyWest team.

“Beyond the thrill of the competition, our fishing tournaments are opportunities for families and friends to create memories and strengthen the bonds that keep us connected,” said Bruce.

The fishing tournaments have also acted as a catalyst for forming new friendships and acquaintances within the company. Newcomers are always welcome, and their participation enriches the event’s atmosphere and dynamics as employees from different departments can connect over their shared hobby.

“For nine years running, our fishing tournaments have been a testament to our commitment to fostering unity within SkyWest,” said Bruce. “As we look to the future, we hope to expand and share this wonderful tradition with even more participants.”

More than just a competition, the tournament promotes teamwork, belonging, and generosity. Each year, participants eagerly await the tournament, ready to cast their lines, create new stories, and strengthen the bonds of friendship and family.

Ready to join a company with great culture? Go to www.skywest.com/careers to get started on an application today!

Jul 14

SkyWest Recognized as an Outstanding Navy Reserve Employer

SkyWest representatives receive Navy Reserve award

SkyWest was recently recognized by the U.S. Navy as one of America’s outstanding Navy Reserve employers. We were nominated for the award by a current SkyWest employee for the support we provide to Veterans and reservists.

“We honor and recognize the many employers who support our Citizen Sailors, who are often called upon to leave their families and civilian jobs on short notice,” said Vice Adm. John B. Mustin, Chief of Navy Reserve and Commander, Navy Reserve Force.

SkyWest Chief Pilot Makenzie Meek and Assistant Chief Pilot Jorge Yepiz attended the Navy Employer Recognition Event in San Diego and accepted the award on behalf of SkyWest.

SkyWest is home to nearly 1,500 men and women who have or are still serving in the U.S. armed forces. We are proud of their service and look forward to seeing even more bring their incredible skills to our team in the future. SkyWest provides military pilots who have a DD214 form a $7,500 bonus, and we offer a Rotor Transition Program (RTP) for military rotor pilots to enter the commercial aviation industry. Through this program, pilots begin accruing company seniority, receive an enhanced introduction to SkyWest, have access to mentors and interview prep, and are eligible for up to $25,000 in bonuses and tuition reimbursement.

Jun 17

Happy Father’s Day

Lexi K. – CRJ First Officer (SLC)

“My dad has been my inspiration to fly since I was a little girl. My brother and I both chose to become pilots because of him, and we were lucky enough to be trained by him and fly together here at SkyWest.

“Growing up with my dad’s flight privileges is the reason I enjoyed traveling, but I didn’t know that I wanted to become a pilot. I even attended college to study another major and it wasn’t until I almost completed my bachelor’s degree that I finally took a discovery flight and realized that I needed to be in the skies. Joining SkyWest and being able to train with my family and eventually work in the flight deck with my dad has been really cool. Flying with my dad gets me really excited for my future in aviation and inspires me to do as much as I can with my career.”

Gabbie S. – Flight Attendant (ORD)

“Happy Father’s Day to the most impeccable person I know, my dad Cllr. S. He’s done and continues to do so much for my siblings and I, and we’ll never be able to fully share with the world his greatness.

“My dad put his law career on hold to move us out of Liberia, a war-torn country at the time, to America so that we could have a better life. I will forever cherish the sacrifices he made for my family. His determination to create a better life for us, and for those around him is reflected in the current work he does as a one of Liberia’s top lawyers. My dad inspires me to do better, and to become the best person that I can be. He’s taught me to help and care for the ones I love.

“Dad, I love you past the stars and back, you will always and forever be my superhero. I love you papa.”

Happy Father’s Day to all our SkyWest dads and to the fathers who helped inspire us to follow our passion to be part of the aviation industry!

Jun 01

Celebrating Pride Month

Today marks the start of Pride Month! Throughout June we’ll be sharing more from SkyWest people about what Pride Month means to them as we continue to celebrate the diversity of our team!

Ginny E. – MX Parts, DFW

Ginny, Dallas-based lead parts clerk, says she is happy SkyWest recognizes the importance of unity and equality within the LGBTQ+ community.

“This month is a great reminder of the unity that was forged, and hard-won battles fought to secure equal rights,” said Ginny. “Even through tough times, we create a community that holds strong and supports each other.”

Serving as the president of the gay/straight alliance during her college years, Ginny witnessed firsthand how crucial it was for individuals to advocate for inclusion and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community.

“I think all of us can remember a time that there was pushback to our beliefs,” said Ginny. “This month reminds me of the hard work that people did to be the voices in our community. I’m married to my wife of four years, and I never would’ve dreamed of being able to do that before.”

In September, Ginny will celebrate four years with SkyWest and calls her time here “nothing short of exceptional.” At DFW, Ginny has always felt comfortable being her authentic self and discussing her life experiences, including her family and personal journey. She is grateful to have found a supportive and inclusive culture with the SkyWest family.

“Amidst the noise surrounding LGBTQ+ issues, let’s engage in meaningful conversations, setting aside stereotypes. By listening and learning from each other, we can make a difference.”

Rachel F. – Flight Attendant, SLC

Flight Attendant Rachel has been a part of the SkyWest team for almost six years. She says that as a bisexual woman and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, she knows the importance of helping others feel included and safe.

“For me, this represents what the SkyWest culture is about, which is promoting safety and comfortability for myself and my colleagues,” said Rachel. “Creating a safe workplace environment is an important part of what makes this month so important, and I’m glad that SkyWest cultivates this.”

Ky J. – Flight Attendant, MSP

MSP-based Flight Attendant Ky says that an important requirement in his career was finding a company that accepts him. He started his SkyWest journey over two years ago and says, “this is the company to be accepted into.”

“I’ve always wanted to be part of a company where people were accepting,” said Ky. “I’m proud to be bisexual and I know that I’m valid. That’s what this month is about, acknowledging your truth and sharing it with others. I want everyone to know that this is who I am and it isn’t confusing — I’m just me.”

Ky’s unwavering self-assurance and authenticity are a testament to his journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. He even credits meeting his now-husband to a serendipitous encounter on a layover.

“We were married this past December,” said Ky. “I am grateful that I have both the man and the career of my dreams because of SkyWest.”

May 19

AAPI: The Strengths of My Heritage and Culture

In honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we asked several SkyWest team members to share their unique stories and tell us why this month is so important to them.

Meleasi Cornell – Station General Manager, EKO

For Meleasi Cornell, this month allows Pacific Islanders like herself to share more about her heritage, successes, experiences, and her family’s values. She hopes that this month can be inspiring for others as they learn more from the principles that she was taught growing up and how she’s been able to lead her life.

“My career in aviation was heavily influenced by my culture,” said Meleasi. “This stems from years of core values being instilled to me by my elders, family, and my community. Being raised in the Polynesian culture has taught me to be confident in my choices, and to always carry pride for where I came from and for those who’ve helped me along the way.”

Meleasi joined SkyWest in 2002 as a part of the customer service team in Elko, Nevada (EKO). She credits her successful work history to her team members around her and for the dependability that they represent for the airport and SkyWest.

“I was raised to always view an opportunity with different perspectives,” said Meleasi. “We’re taught from a very young age to serve others, and to do it with a cheerful heart. I’m very blessed, especially due to the opportunities that were presented in my career, to represent that and to share those teachings with my colleagues. Just as my family at home is very important to me, I’ve invited my work family into my heart as well. As a station general manager, I strive to emulate those values in the workplace by creating a familiar sense of comfort through equality, collaboration, respect, and compassion.”

Ella Ika – IF, SLC

Seven years ago, Ella Ika began her SkyWest journey as a flight attendant and credits her family members for inspiring her to take to the skies.

“My aunt and cousin are both flight attendants,” said Ella. “I remember hearing all their travel stories and hoping that one day I could also experience them. I was 21 years old and had a need for exploring and seeing new places. I applied, got the job, and haven’t looked back.”

During this month, Ella says that she reflects on how important it is to feel represented and the significance this has on her cultural identity as a Pacific Islander. It is a culture rich of history, traditions, and familial principles unique to the islands.

“For most of my life I navigated being a minority or being labeled as lesser because of this title,” said Ella. “I would get questions like, ‘What are you?’ or ‘What is a Polynesian?’ and I’m really glad that now we’re able to mainstream the answers to these questions throughout this month. I am so grateful to share more about myself, and to hear about others experiences as Asian American or Pacific Islanders. Each of these groups are unique, important, and beautiful in their own right.”

Ella says this month is all about shining a light on the many ethnicities and stories within the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. She’s also grateful for her travel privileges and the opportunity that her and her family have to explore the world and learn more about other cultures.

Angela Nguyen – IF, ORD

Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee to first generation immigrants from Vietnam and Cambodia, Angela Nguyen knows how important heritage is.

“My dad is Vietnamese, and my mom is Cambodian,” said Angela. “Like most people with immigrant parents, my parents came to the United States with nothing, but were able to build a great life for our family. My dad didn’t want us to struggle adjusting to American culture, so our parents didn’t give my brothers and I Vietnamese or Cambodian names.”

“I have always admired my parents and the rest of my family for moving to a new country and learning a new language as quickly as they did,” said Angela. “I remember being embarrassed when I was younger that I was so different because I grew up in a community that was very different from me, culturally and ethnically. But as I grew older, I learned more about my family history and culture, and I started to gain more pride in my background. I understood why my parents made the decisions that they made in raising our family.”

After graduating from the University of Memphis, Angela decided that she needed to get out of her comfort zone and applied to become a flight attendant. Inspired by her parents’ work ethic, she graduated from InFlight training and pushed herself to overcome her fears of public speaking and making new friends.

“It became one of the best decisions I’ve made,” said Angela. “This job has pushed me to be a better version of myself and to have courage. I am not the quiet, shy girl I once was and this career is the reason I can travel solo in different countries. I can’t imagine doing anything like this before SkyWest.”

For Angela, this month is all about learning. She loves using her flight privileges to travel and to learn new cultures, as well as sharing her own stories from her heritage with others.

May 01

AAPI: “Service, Belonging, and Relationships”

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and SkyWest is honored to recognize the employees who help make us the best regional airline in the industry.

Walter and Hannah Chi – AO, Aspen, Colorado (ASE)

For Walter and Hannah Chi, ramp agents in Aspen, Colorado (ASE), being at SkyWest is a family affair.

“I grew up at SkyWest because of my dad,” Hannah said. “Some of my favorite family memories were made in airports. I traveled as much as I could under my dad’s flight privileges but when I turned 26, I knew that it was time to join the family business.”

Hannah’s dad, Walter Chi, says “service, belonging, and relationships” are key values that Asian Americans bring to any workplace. He started his aviation journey in the ‘80s, working for Air Wisconsin in various airports before finally moving to Aspen. After graduating with a degree in aviation management & flight operations, he started a 27-year career in law enforcement while maintaining a job in aviation. In 2005, he joined the SkyWest team.

“In Aspen, our staff here enjoys being a part of the industry, travelling, and the people we work with,” said Walter.

Walter credits his love for aviation to his culture, and to the influence of his father. A first-generation immigrant from Korea, his father moved to the U.S. and obtained multiple degrees in aeronautical engineering and metallurgy. He became a radiologist and later enlisted into the Air Force.

“My father was the first person to introduce me to this industry,” said Walter. “He joined the Air Force Reserves and told us of the importance of giving back to the country that accepted him. After he enlisted, all I knew were airplanes. I remember a trip to Korea as a kid on NWA, and on Ozark Airlines as an unaccompanied minor (UNMR) to North Carolina where my family took me to ‘Kitty Hawk’ on the outer banks. Seeing where Orville and Wilbur Wright pioneered aviation with the first powered flight had me hooked!”

For Walter’s daughter, Hannah, this month is all about appreciating what her culture has given to the world and how it’s influenced her life.

“This month is a great way to highlight one of the many diverse communities and identities that live in the U.S.,” said Hannah. “Korean culture has been in the spotlight recently for K-Pop and Korean-BBQ, but there is so much to our culture and identity. My favorite part of this job is traveling with my co-workers around the world and introducing them to the various aspects of my culture.”

Hannah, born and raised in the U.S., credits her dad and SkyWest for the love and appreciation she has for her culture.

“I was curious about my Korean heritage at a very young age,” said Hannah. “I had a very American upbringing so I was curious to learn more about my identity. I used my father’s flight privileges to fly to Korea and I met with so many amazing people and learned more about my ancestry. I also learned that Seokyeong Ji, a Joseon period physician that contributed to ridding Korea of smallpox, was a distant relative of mine.”

Hannah was excited to for her own flight privileges and to learn more about her family’s history. She joined SkyWest in 2021 and is excited to work alongside her dad and the great Aspen team every day she’s at work.

Linus Wu – Flight Attendant, Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC)

Born in Taiwan, Linus Wu, a Salt Lake City-based flight attendant, knew that he wanted to do something different with his life and that he needed to be in the U.S. to make it happen. Linus joined a foreign exchange program and moved to Salem, Utah. Knowing he’d be on his own with a foreign family who wouldn’t understand Chinese, he set out to learn the English language at 15-years-old, to attend college like his sister, and to live the American dream.

“Growing up in Taiwan I was told that the elite of the elite went to America,” said Linus. “My mother sacrificed a lot for me because she believed in me. I knew starting my journey that anything could happen, but I learned the language quickly and started earning college credits in high school. I wanted to get a head start on my education goals and to hopefully attend college. I wanted to show my family, my mother, that her sacrifices meant something.”

After completing school, 19-year-old Linus moved back to Taiwan to complete his mandatory military service. He was excited to serve his country, and it was during this time that his interest in aviation began. After speaking to a few of his comrades about the cadet pilot programs, he knew that he needed to return to school. Linus completed his military service and returned to Utah Valley University (UVU) where he learned more about their pilot program.

“I was nervous and hesitant at first, but I knew that I needed to work hard to push myself,” said Linus. “For example, I had a goal to become accustomed to the higher altitude in Utah. I vowed to hike a steep mountain side for 100 days and to not give up. I knew that I needed to build resilience and prove to myself that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. It was very hard, but I did it!”

Determined to be the best at everything he did, Linus switched his major to Aviation Management, got accepted to the SkyWest Pilot Pathway Program, and became the Presidential Intern at UVU. He graduated school with two bachelor’s degrees, took a corporate job during the COVID-19 pandemic to save money, and was determined to get back in the air. Linus applied to many airlines in the hopes of taking a chance to join the industry, so he quit his job and started training to become a flight attendant.

“I took a leap of faith and decided to join SkyWest,” said Linus. “SkyWest is where I decided to give my all. It’s been the most amazing time of my life. I am based out of the city that I live in, and I met the girl of my dreams here.”

Linus returns to UVU this summer to complete his flight ratings and to become a pilot. He credits his mother’s sacrifices, work ethic, and courage to send her children away for the great opportunities he’s had. He believes that anything is possible if more chances are taken, and if people are determined enough to get the work done.

Throughout the month, we will feature updates from employees across the operation sharing their thoughts about what Asian American and Pacific Islander Month means to them and how their culture and background have shaped their experience at SkyWest.

Apr 10

National Siblings Day: Sisters at SkyWest

The aviation industry is full of people’s stories reporting pivotal experiences that first fueled their desire to join the industry. For sisters Lia Tausinga and Sei Fa’ulao, the decision to join SkyWest was the result of years of those pivotal experiences. With family members who joined the industry in the ‘80s, a mother at a major carrier for more than 10 years and Lia’s husband previously at SkyWest, they were surrounded by aviation and often spoke about joining the industry.

“Our mom worked for a major airline for a long time so it wasn’t too shocking that one of us would follow in her footsteps,” said Sei. “I just didn’t think it would be me because I was preparing for law school and my schedule was stacked.”

She says her sister Lia thought it would be a great idea for her to apply as a flight attendant to make extra money, which she immediately rejected.

“Lia told me that she heard so many great things about SkyWest from her husband and others who worked there. She didn’t relent until I submitted my application.”

Sei joined SkyWest in 2017 as a flight attendant and later became an InFlight ground instructor. She is now a corporate communications coordinator.

“I tell my sister ‘You’re welcome’ every time I see her,” says Lia. “I also remind her on every international trip that she owes me a souvenir or treat because I like to joke that without my forcing her to apply, she wouldn’t have the great career that she has today.”

Lia got her aviation start working alongside her mother at Delta Air Lines for a few years after school and says that experience is why she’ll never stop telling people that aviation is the best industry to be in. She joined SkyWest in 2022 and is now a Salt Lake City-based airport operations agent and enjoys catching up with her sister and other family members throughout the SkyWest system.

“I spent so many years telling people that SkyWest was this great place to work that I decided it was my turn,” Lia said. “We have such a rich history of hard-working family members in this industry and I’m proud to represent them. We all love to travel, and we love to be great at what we do. My little sister reminded me that it was my time to experience SkyWest and I’m so glad I did.”

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

Mar 20

From Passenger to Pilot in N712SK

Many young passengers dream about what it would be like to be in the flight deck, flying an airplane when they are traveling. For SkyWest CRJ First Officer Derek Baker, that dream truly came full circle when he recently made an unexpected discovery.

“I was going through some old photos and found an image from when my family and I visited Salt Lake City, Utah on a ski trip,” said Derek. “After taking a closer look at an image of 10-year-old me at the airport, I knew that I recognized the tail number, N712SK. It was definitely a SkyWest aircraft!”

Derek has been a CRJ pilot with SkyWest for almost four years now and was completely unaware of the connection he had with N712SK.

“After a week of finding that photo, I flew the same tail number from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (DFW) to Austin, Texas (AUS),” he said.

Following the flight, Derek made sure to re-create his childhood photo in front of the aircraft that he now operates as a pilot. He noted how surprising it was to find the image of his younger self and how much he loves being able to fly the aircraft as a pilot.