Pilot Team Members Bring Our Virtues to Life
Team members across Pilot—we call them journey makers—bring our virtues to life. Whether it’s stepping up at an important moment or consistently showing up in everyday actions, their commitment makes a lasting impact.
We’re proud to recognize four team members who show what it means to be Driven, Reliable, Authentic and Welcoming. They serve as a reminder of what’s possible when we show people they matter at every turn.
Amanda Garza
Guest Services Team Leader
Pilot #467, San Antonio, Texas
Amanda shows what it means to be Driven through her commitment to growth, teamwork and excellence. As a leader and trainer, she works shoulder-to-shoulder with her team to develop others, lead with consistency and position her team for success. Her positivity and focus inspire improvement in herself and others. She takes true ownership of her work and strives to be better every day.
A fellow team member says, “Thank you for bringing a positive vibe to work every day! It’s such a pleasure to work with you. You put so much effort and love into everything you do.”
Derek Wayman
Transportation Field Supervisor
Region 10, Cheyanne, Wyoming
Derek demonstrates being Reliable by consistently supporting others when it matters most. He recently went above and beyond to help a team member experiencing a difficult medical situation. Derek’s reassurance, presence and helpfulness ensured the team member remained safe and was not alone. His actions prove that he is someone people can count on by being genuinely committed to others.
“Derek came to help me in a time of need, gave me reassurance and stayed in town until the matter was resolved,” says the team member Derek assisted. “He checked in on me several times and overall showed care and concern. Thanks, Derek, for being there.”
Mayra Alvarez
HR Service Delivery Representative I
Sales and Support Center, Miami, Florida
Mayra shows she is Authentic by communicating openly, honestly and with purpose. During a recent meeting, Mayra spoke up to share some concerns of Spanish-speaking team members, ensuring their voices were heard. Her courage sparked meaningful change, including translating over 200 process cards into Spanish, creating a more inclusive team member experience.
Mayra says, “For me, being authentic means showing people they matter when they feel seen and valued. I’m grateful I could help our Spanish-speaking team members be their authentic selves and feel connected, so we can become stronger together.”
Melissa Schmidt
Guest Services Leader
Pilot #43, Walcott, Iowa
Melissa proves she is Welcoming by creating a safe, caring environment where team members feel supported and valued. Melissa stays aware, leads by example and ensures each shift runs smoothly. She’s always ready to help and brings a spirit of positivity, accountability and genuine commitment to both her team and guests. Melissa makes sure everyone feels as though they belong.
One of Melissa’s fellow team members says, “She always makes sure her crew is having a great shift.” Another team member says Melissa is “always willing to learn and teach others” and that her “smile will make anyone in a bad mood forget their troubles.”
We’re grateful to team members like Amanda, Derek, Mayra and Melissa who embody our virtues each day as we work shoulder-to-shoulder to serve guests across more than 900 travel centers in 43 states and Canada. It’s all part of making sure Pilot is by your side for the whole ride.