Pivoting career paths led SFO B737 First Officer J.W. S. to the United flight deck

J.W. S.’s pilot journey

Joined Aviate viaUnited Express entry point

Transitioned to United fromCommuteAir

Current roleSFO B737 FO

BaseSan Francisco

J.W.’s career path took an unexpected turn from playing soccer professionally to becoming a pilot. Inspired by his dad, a Korean Air pilot, J.W. began pursuing aviation and completed his training and certifications at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach.

As part of the Aviate program, J.W. built his hours and completed his requirements at CommuteAir, which led him to the United flight deck.

“I heard of Aviate during my training at Embry-Riddle from one of my instructors. The program sounded amazing, and after some research, I loved the idea that [Aviate] was a secure pathway to United,” J.W. explained.