Southwest Airlines Community

In 2004, a new adventure that I could have never predicted entered my life. On a whim I applied for a job as a Graphic Designer for Southwest Airlines. I never expected a call back, let alone actually getting the job. This was after all a job at Southwest Airlines: the mega-juggernaut of all airlines. To this day, I still wonder how my portfolio bubbled to the top; but I am so grateful it did.  As I look back at my seven years at Southwest Airlines, it's hard to select what has been the most memorable moment, project and memory. Sure, designing our "Lift" Coffee cup (don't judge me by the drop shadow) ranks up there, as does all the fun city openings I have been a part of, like Denver and Milwaukee. But it's not the work I create that makes me really feel like I belong here; it's the people. The people are the secret ingredient. The Employees of Southwest are the sugar crystal sprinkles on top of the cookie. When I set out on this adventure it was really without a net. I was leaving everything I knew and loved in my home of Lubbock. I was leaving a good job at an advertising agency. And most importantly I was leaving the ultimate net, my amazing parents. But in turn what I gained was a new extended family. Now don't get me wrong, just like in any family it's not always smooth sailing, but at the end of the day it's so reassuring to know that you share the same goal. I have met so many brilliant and talented people here. My design team goes without saying. They are my family. No other group pushes me to think differently, laugh louder, and to strive for a better design solution every time. I am fortunate to share their talents with the rest of the Company and our Customers.  Now I can't leave without sharing two quick little stories that sum up how great our Leaders at Southwest are. One day, I had the assignment to follow our CEO Gary Kelly on a day trip to take some photos as he visited the Customer Support and Services Center in Houston.  The organizers were only expecting Gary, not his entourage of one, so there was only one lunch. Before anyone could stress or whip up a solution he split his meal with me and went on with the visit. It was such a simple and kind gesture but I'll never forget that moment of selflessness.  My second story actually involves a prank years in the making. One day I got a call on my work caller ID from Colleen Barrett (THE COLLEEN BARRETT). For a quick second I had an out of body moment of "oh my--does she know who I am?" After a quick chat I hurried to her office. We briefly discussed the project she was needing some design help with. And then I had to make my move and ask her the ultimate question. With my heart racing I asked, "Would you please help me prank call my Brother?"  I am sure she was probably shocked, but once I explained the prank and why I needed her help she was such an unbelievable sport.  In hindsight I wouldn't recommend that move, but in this instance I am glad I asked. Armed with his number, she quickly phoned my brother Mario (who just happens to be one of the wittiest people I know--and who constantly jokes about wanting to meet Colleen). Unfortunately he was actually mid flight and had his phone turned off, but her voicemail was priceless. Upon landing I immediately get a call asking "was that The Colleen." All I could say was, "Yes, you missed your chance." So for all of you who may hope to become a part of the Southwest family, I wish you luck. I am proof that acting on a whim can actually pay off. This is a special Company with even greater people. As Southwest turns 40, I'd just like to thank all of those Employees who paved the way for me to have the opportunity to share in this remarkable adventure.  ... View more

Little did I know that when I first composed a blog about my non-Southwest Airlines passion (figure skating, in honor of the 2010 Winter Olympics), that I’d have a little Olympic adventure of my own to share. Let me explain. While out on a teambuilding exercise with my graphic design team a few weeks ago, I received the greatest tweet ever. I had just won a Valentine’s Weekend Trip to the Winter Olympics in Vancouver—complete with event tickets for both segments of the Pairs Figure Skating event (all courtesy of Tourism British Columbia—@TourismBC on Twitter). I was beyond shocked and ready to go. And yes, the sequins and rhinestones are really much more glittery in person. Now that I’m back stateside and slightly rested (but still suffering from Olympic fever—yep, it’s contagious), I can officially say that if you ever have the opportunity to see the Olympics…do it! The city of Vancouver was absolutely electric. A few of my personal highlights included an impromptu Russian sing-along outside of the Sochi House, having my picture made with a real member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (in dress uniform), sitting in front of 1988 Olympic Bronze Medalist Debi Thomas at the Men’s Figure Skating practice session, and watching history unfold before my eyes. Enjoy this brief glimpse of my take inside the Pacific Coliseum following the Pairs Free Skate. P.S. I did manage to snag a pair of those snazzy red mittens! ... View more

I might be a professional graphic designer, but I have a confession…I am a figure skating addict. I admit, I have the most amazing job with a talented Team of Designers, but I really can’t wait to get on the ice every Saturday morning. This icy addiction can really be traced back to two remarkable women—my Mom and Katarina Witt (let me explain). As far back as I can remember, Mom has always watched figure skating. She and my Dad would surprise me with road trips from West Texas to exotic Texas cities like Dallas so I’d have the chance to see my favorite skaters perform on tour. Mom was the fuel for my figure skating flame.       But in 1988, another dynamic woman made me a fan for life. Much like the rest of the world, I was mesmerized by the Battle of the Carmens and the Battle of the Brians. Katarina Witt’s rendition of Bizet’s Carmen was so captivating I tried to mimic her chorography as I hurled myself on to our green shag carpet (much like her final pose). It was in the haze of this Olympic magic that I became a fan for life.   In the years since 1988, I have come along way. In 2004 I relocated to Dallas for my before mentioned—awesome design job. When I landed in Dallas (no pun intended), I knew I had to give skating a try. Having grown up in West Texas, this would be my chance. I could finally let my inner-Canadian out! So at the age of 27, I took to the ice. I was horrible. It was a disastrous first attempt, and I nearly gave up instantly.     But here I am four years later…still on the ice. I will never compete on the Olympic level but I certainly have an even deeper appreciation for those who will amaze us in Vancouver. In a really unique twist, I too have a couple of Olympic connections. My coach from day one has been the super, spunky Lisa Cushley. Lisa and her brother Neil represented Great Britain in the Pairs Figure Skating event at the 1988 Calgary Olympics. Nothing beats her stories.       My second Olympic connection came about through volunteerism. Southwest Airlines hires good people and those good people love to help. I knew that I wanted to find a way to volunteer within figure skating. I searched and found a really special and amazing non-profit organization—The Michael Weiss Foundation. Three years ago, I linked up with Michael and his wife Lisa to help. For those sports fans out there, Michael was a member of the 1998 and 2002 Winter Olympic Teams. He is a three-time United States National Champion and a two-time World Bronze Medalist. They created the Michael Weiss Foundation to provide scholarship for aspiring United States Olympic hopefuls. Armed with my design skills, I have helped them by creating the branding and advertising materials for their annual benefit show. It’s a great partnership and even greater cause. I am fortunate to help.   As we slide into the final countdown for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games, let’s remember what it’s all about—the sequins!   ... View more