Mohammed Hakeem’s love affair with the skies began during childhood adventures on Boeing 747-400s with his family, traversing the route from Los Angeles to Fiji. These aerial excursions ignited a lifelong passion that propelled him towards a career in aviation. In 2017, Mohammed joined Alaska Airlines as a customer service agent at San Francisco International Airport, swiftly ascending to a leadership role in Oakland. In 2019, he fulfilled his childhood dreams by becoming a flight attendant, but his aspirations soared higher. Mohammed’s unwavering desire to pilot aircraft was fueled by a deep-seated yearning to honor his parents’ sacrifices and forge a path that would make them proud. The significance of representation in aviation leadership resonated deeply with Mohammed, as a Fijian American, he yearned to contribute to a shift that would see more individuals like himself at the helm of aircraft. “I have always dreamt of becoming a pilot. Growing up, I was told by adults that my dream was too ambitious and that it wasn’t practical. But I held onto that dream, and it eventually became a reality for me,” said Mohammed. “Being a part of the industry which I’ve loved all my life helped me realize that my dream was indeed attainable.” Armed with determination and encouraged by a friend, Mohammed applied to the Ascend Academy offered by Alaska Airlines in early 2023. This comprehensive program, conducted in partnership with Hillsboro Aero Academy in Oregon, guides aspiring pilots from ground zero to achieving commercial flight status over several years. Mohammed is currently immersed in his training, steadfastly pursuing his graduation milestone, which will pave the way for him to transition seamlessly into his new role as a pilot for Horizon Air. “Trust the process, move at your own pace, and always believe in yourself! You will make mistakes, but you will learn and grow from them. Trusting the process can be grueling especially when we compare our progress amongst our peers. It is not a race but a journey–one we cannot complete if we do not truly believe in ourselves the entire way.” – Mohammed Hakeem In recognition of exceptional careers, Alaska Air Group honored select pilots as “Alaska Legends” and “Horizon Air Pathfinders” last year. These aviators consistently strive for excellence, prioritize the well-being of others, and have dedicated over a decade to the profession. Captain Julie Thiele, once an art major, defied severe motion sickness to pursue a career in aviation. She rose through the ranks to become the director base chief pilot at Anchorage International Airport, demonstrating unwavering resilience. Captain Geoff Nelson’s aviation journey began with a life-changing flight over Juneau, Alaska. With over two decades of experience, he has fulfilled diverse roles, from piloting guests to educating students and assuming technical pilot responsibilities. Captain Rich Loudon, a former Navy serviceman, brought his wealth of experience to Alaska Airlines. Beyond his duties in the flight deck, he has crafted vital training programs for Alaska pilots and earned industry-wide respect for his expertise in Human Factors. “You literally have the best office in the world, with ever-changing breath-taking view. Feeling the exhilaration of climbing away from the earth on every takeoff has never failed to keep me smiling. What a privilege. In addition to that, the aviation career is filled with high performing people that make it safe, fun and highly rewarding.” – Captain Rich Loudon These individuals embody the standard of care and expertise that Alaska Airlines pilots strive for. As Rich commemorates 32 years as an Alaska pilot and Mohammed embarks on his journey to the flight deck, the airline remains committed to valuing and acknowledging expertise, recruiting pilots from diverse backgrounds, and fostering opportunities for employees to pursue their aspirations.
Fijian American Sets Course for the Captain’s Seat: Mohammed Hakeem’s Aviation Journey
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