US carrier Southwest Airlines was recognised with a mention on Newsweek’s America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2023.
In addition the carrier was also recognised in Latino Leaders Magazine Best Companies to Work for Latinos 2023.
The Dallas-based carrier received these recognitions for providing a supportive workplace while fostering and celebrating diversity.
“We are committed to creating a workplace of belonging where all Employees feel seen, heard, and welcomed,” said Juan Suarez, Vice President Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) at Southwest Airlines.
“We want our People to show up as their authentic selves, bringing with them their unique perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds.”
“Our Company is stronger when every Employee contributes to our success. We’re honored to receive these awards, and we’ll continue embracing all People into the Southwest Family.”
Southwest has been particularly proactive in supporting diversity and inclusivity initiatives. A few examples of programs and initiatives underway at Southwest Airlinesinclude:
Establishment of Employee Resource Groups
The Company recently expanded its Employee-led Group program by establishing Employee Resource Groups (ERG) to promote inclusivity and help Employees take pride in their identity, Culture, and personal values.
ERGs are formed by Employees and organized around a significant, specific and shared dimension of diversity or identity. Employees are encouraged to join one or more ERG that resonates with them since they are not exclusionary.
Pilot training programme
In 2022, Southwest added two new university partners to its Destination 225° pilot training program including Texas Southern University, a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), and Angelo State University, a Hispanic-Serving Institution in San Angelo, Texas.
The carrier also partnered with Paul Quinn College, a Dallas-based HBCU becoming the college’s official airline and a member of their Urban Work College Program.
Partnership with HACU
Additionally, from April 28, 2023, Southwest Airlines, in partnership with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) is accepting applications for the ¡Lánzate!/Take Off! Higher Education Travel Award Program.
This program aims to assist Hispanic college students travel home to maintain important connections with their families.
Recent related news
Southwest Airlines recently officially celebrated 25 years of its bridge-building Adopt-A-Pilot® Program.
To mark the quarter century milestone, the airline unveiled an aircraft adorned with a nose decal and fuselage artwork dedicated to nearly 14,000 Pilots and half-million students that participated in the award-winning Program.
Since its inception, the airline’s Adopt-A-Pilot program has impacted the lives of more than 556,000 fifth-grade students in classrooms across the country. Several have gone on to take up employment within the aviation industry.
Earlier this month, the airline also earned a spot on Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women 2023.
“We’re committed to providing a supportive environment where women at Southwest can thrive,” said Elizabeth Bryant, Senior Vice President People, Learning, & Development at Southwest Airlines.
“In 2022, 44% of our workforce was female, and their value to the Company is immeasurable. As a Company dedicated to its People, we’re proud to advocate for all Employees.”
