Officer Biographies

Michael Ryan

Michael Ryan

Leadership is...
"Controlling your emotions to increase your control over the situation."
--Michael Ryan


TITLE: Vice President - Labor Relations
JOB DESCRIPTION: Mike is responsible for oversight of labor relations with the numerous labor organizations representing Southwest Employees.
EXPERIENCE: During Mike’s tenure at Southwest Airlines he has held numerous positions in Administrative Purchasing, Provisioning, and Ground Operations. Including; Provisioning Manager, Assistant Station Manager, Station Manager, Regional Director and Senior Director - Employee Resources.
LENGTH OF SERVICE AT SOUTHWEST: Started July 30, 1986.
EDUCATION: Studied three years at North Texas State University.
FAMILY: Mike and his wife Patti, have one son, Daley, and two daughters, Kayla and Caitlyn Jane.
FIRST PAYING JOB: Picking cotton in his home town of Fabens, Texas.
PROUDEST MOMENT: The births of Daley, Kayla and Caitlyn Jane.
BEST ADVICE EVER RECEIVED: The good Lord gave us one mouth and two ears for a reason.
BEST ADVICE EVER GIVEN: The good Lord gave us one mouth and two ears for a reason.


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