Speeches and Presentations from Southwest Leaders
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Colleen Barrett, Southwest Airlines' President |
The BizFest Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Program was hosted by United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) Foundation & the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GDHCC)
Colleen Barrett, Southwest Airlines’ President, has a special place in her heart for young people and loves to spend time with them sharing her story. She recently addressed Latino high school students participating in BizFest, a three and a half day regional youth entrepreneurship program equipping students with the skills and tools to be successful in both business and life. BizFest was designed by the USHCC Foundation to teach Latino high school students a variety of business skills.
The program was brought to Dallas for the first time by the GDHCC. Southwest had the pleasure of hosting the students at the airline’s headquarters and home in Dallas.
Barrett told the students that “many of our own Leaders have undergone training, much like you, where they have learned, grown, and gone out to deliver Southwest’s known and respected Positively Outrageous Service!”
She continued by telling the students, “we are honored to host you, along with our partners of ten plus years, the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, as you begin your learning adventure. We encourage and support you as you learn more about the Leadership skills needed to succeed in the business world, whether it’s in Corporate America or as an entrepreneur.”
In her chat with the students, Barrett emphasized Southwest’s five leadership expectations which include “living the Southwest way” by having a warrior spirit, servant’s heart, and a fun-LUVing attitude; developing people; building great Teams; thinking strategically; and getting excellent results.
“I believe that Leadership can be learned. But there is an innate quality or ‘gene’ which makes you want to be a Leader,” she said.
She shared with the students her initial path to her current career. “I couldn’t afford to attend a four-year college so I went to a two-year junior college. I then became a legal secretary and it was the best training I ever had,” Barrett described. “I am an overachiever, and I work hard.”
During the program, students learn the basic mechanics of entrepreneurship and are required to develop a business concept and business plan. As such, Colleen explained the qualities that embody an entrepreneur: belief, creativity, innovation, and passion.
She described to the students how Herb Kelleher, Southwest’s Executive Chairman and a maverick entrepreneur, revolutionized the skies when he cofounded established Southwest Airlines in 1971.
“When the Board of Directors was ready to end the business after a year of flying, Herb believed it could work. He agreed to represent the airline for free and the Board would cover only expenses. If the airline turned the corner, Herb would be paid in stock,” Barrett said. “Herb would say that was the smartest thing he ever did. He took a risk. He believed.”
Many of the students present were eager to find out more about her job and what makes Southwest special. “Our most important Customer is our Employee. Eighty percent of my time is dedicated to our Employees who deliver to our Customers,” Barrett said. “Everything we do is about relationships. I learn important lessons watching people.”
Through Southwest’s involvement as the presenting sponsor, the airline continues its commitment to the Hispanic community, a community close to Southwest’s hearts. “Southwest’s core values such as family, hard work, and celebration, closely align with those of the Hispanic community,” Barrett said.
“With our participation in BizFest, I’m excited to see so many young faces. I’m thrilled to know you’ll be learning about the skills and confidence that are necessary to become successful Leaders in business and life,” she emphasized.
Barrett shared these final, inspiring thoughts with the students: “Find a job you are passionate about…not just a title or paycheck. Find a job you believe in. And, do it with enthusiasm!”
Southwest Airlines looks forward to the promising future of the Dallas BizFest students!
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