"Southwest is a place where the dedicated focus honed in military life brings daily recognition and reward. We celebrate the advancement of those who can lead others in marching to the same heartbeat."
- Andrew Watterson,
Chief Operating Officer and U.S. Army Veteran
Chief Operating Officer and U.S. Army Veteran
Our Warrior Hire program
In partnership with the Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (MSSA), Southwest actively supports the transition of military veterans from active duty and reserves to careers in our Technology Department. Throughout the years, dozens of Southwest Warrior Hires have successfully transitioned and received the full support of technical and career skill training, along with a "battle buddy" from a previous class, a transition mentor, and direct guidance from the Warrior Hire Steering Committee.
“You won’t find a closer family of veterans anywhere in the workforce than Southwest’s Warrior Hire program, which is comprised of every branch of service. Someone is always willing to help whenever you have a question or need support, and that’s the contagious Culture at Southwest.”
“You won’t find a closer family of veterans anywhere in the workforce than Southwest’s Warrior Hire program, which is comprised of every branch of service. Someone is always willing to help whenever you have a question or need support, and that’s the contagious Culture at Southwest.”
- Ron G., Senior Manager, Technology
and 18th Sergeant Major of the United States Marine Corps
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Greg Thomas/USMC/Released
and 18th Sergeant Major of the United States Marine Corps
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Greg Thomas/USMC/Released
Supporting our veterans
Supporting our veterans
Military Ambassadors
Our Military Ambassadors are a Team of veterans and military spouses focused on easing the path of post-military transitioning. Based in various departments, our ambassadors cultivate a community where veterans, current military, and supporters can connect through shared experiences and learn about development opportunities.
Destination 225°® Military Pathway
The Southwest Airlines Destination 225° Program allows experienced, passionate, and well-trained aviators to learn how to fly The Southwest Way. Southwest Airlines designed the military pathway to bridge the gap for rotor or power lift pilots interested in launching their civilian flying career.
Honor Flight Network
We’re proud to honor veterans of all branches. Since 2009, Southwest has been the official airline of the Honor Flight Network, providing complimentary round-trip travel that helps military heroes visit and reflect at memorials in Washington, D.C. As of November 2022, we've donated over 12,150 tickets to veterans from all service areas.
Partnerships that matter
Partnerships that matter
We're proud of our national partnerships with military-focused nonprofits. Southwest is honored to support these organizations who provide impactful services to military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Warrior spirits. Warrior stories.
Warrior spirits. Warrior stories.
Our Heart starts with our People.
Our Heart starts with our People.
From evacuee to the U.S. Navy to Southwest Airlines.
“If it wasn’t for the choices and sacrifices my parents made, I would not have a story to share regarding my journey to the United States or my professional career.”
- Jeni T., Southwest Airlines University
Team Leader
Team Leader
The few, the proud, and now part of the Southwest Family.
"Many stars aligned to make it possible for me to be on the end of this computer right now."
- Ron G., Senior Manager, Technology
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Melissa Karnath/Released
I'm an Advocate for Positivity.
"I wake up every day with one mission in mind: to advocate for positivity."
- Ro T., Supervisor Inflight Standards Audit
Cultivating Camaraderie beyond the Marines.
"Southwest provided the People and Culture that I was used to having around me while serving."
- Juan B., Senior Software Engineer