Leadership is...
"Doing the right thing, even though it might be difficult."
-- Jim Sokol

TITLE:	Vice President Maintenance Operations
JOB DESCRIPTION:	Jim provides safe, reliable, and on time aircraft to Southwest passengers and crewmembers.
EXPERIENCE:	Jim has held several leadership positions at Southwest Airlines. He previously served as Director of Quality. Prior to joining Southwest, Jim worked in a leadership position for a large part 145, aircraft maintenance repair station. He also worked for two other airlines as a line and overhaul mechanic and maintenance planner. Further, Jim currently holds a designated airworthiness representative (DAR) authorization from the FAA.
LENGTH OF SERVICE AT SOUTHWEST:	Started September 1994
EDUCATION:	Jim earned a certificate in Aircraft Maintenance Technology and an A&P license from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.
FAMILY:	Jim and his wife Michelle have been married for over 15 years. They have a son named Preston.
FIRST PAYING JOB:	Newspaper route
PROUDEST MOMENT:	"Without any doubt, the birth of my son Preston. On that day I learned my true purpose in life."
BEST ADVICE EVER RECEIVED:	"From my dad: Be happy with what you do."
BEST ADVICE EVER GIVEN:	"Do what is right."