Messages From Our Members: What Makes you Proud to be Asian American?

from PAPA Expo 2023 Event Program

Thank You To Our Annual Sponsors

The strong work ethic that’s instilled in us from early childhood is what makes us a great asset to any company. In all things great and small, we give 110% and won’t quit until the job is done!

I would not be here if it weren’t for my mother’s sacrifices and hardship to come to America. I am first generation Asian American, and I am here to make my mother proud.

The ability to introduce Asian culture and food to my peers!

I am not Asian American myself, but my wife was born and raised in the Philippines. My son and daughter are half Filipino. My in-laws came to America to live with us five years ago as well. I’m proud of my predominantly Filipino family and the pride and culture that comes with the family heritage!

Asians have been part of America’s transportation infrastructure for centuries. Aviation, aeronautics and aerospace help to facilitate the exchange of cultures, foods, knowledge and languages around the world quicker, better, faster and most importantly safer for human kind.

I’m mostly proud of our culture, various form of arts and martial arts, different type of food, and the sense of community.

I am extremely proud to be part of a community that values hard work and dedication. The culture of excellence and respect that Asian Americans represent motivate me to do the best that I can in any endeavor.

I am proud to be an Asian American because I get to break the stereotypes of becoming a doctor, lawyer, or dentist. I am also proud to break the stereotypes of Asian Americans being bad pilots by showing what hard work and grit looks like.

I love being able to experience and embrace both of my cultures.

My grandparents left their homeland in China so their four daughters were able to pursue their dreams. I am proud product of their sacrifice in realizing my dream as a first-generation commercial pilot.

I’m proud to be Asian American because we belong to a culture rich with tradition, and as Americans we can still celebrate our Asian cultures and values.

I am proud of my Asian heritage, particularly the rich and diverse food culture that I have experienced, and as the first immigrant in my family, I take pride in breaking barriers and making my own mark in history.

My family leaving behind everything in Vietnam after the Vietnam War so my sister and I can pursue the American dream. I became an Air Force fighter pilot and now fly for Sun Country Airlines on the B-737. Thank you to my heritage for teaching me how to be persistent and tenacious in my pursuit of the American dream and aviation.

I am proud to carry the culture, traditions, and ethical values my ancestors sacrificed so much to keep alive.

My family immigrated across open seas with no RVAV and gave me the opportunity to become a pilot!

Knowing that my story is part of a more complex history and culture and that the work I do matters for younger generations who can learn that their differences are a strength that adds to their perspective and wisdom.

Southwest Airlines® is proud to be the

Title Sponsor of the Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA) Expo 2023.

Would you like to work in a unique, People-first Culture with competitive benefits and a solid record of job security? Apply for jobs at Careers.Southwestair.com Pilot applicants must also create and maintain a profile at SWA.PilotCredentials.com.

Learn more at swa.is/PAPA