As we celebrate Airline Dispatch Day today, we proudly spotlight Ron, our Chief Dispatcher, who has spent the last 35 years helping keep Sun Country Airlines in the sky.
In 1989, Ron joined Sun Country, following in the footsteps of his brother, Dave, a pilot with us for over three decades. “Dave told me about the dispatch profession and what it involved. It sounded very interesting, so I got my dispatch license and took my first job at Mesaba Airlines in 1988 before coming to Sun Country the following year,” he explains.
Each day begins for Ron at 5 a.m. “We have anywhere from three to six dispatchers working a shift, depending on the day,” he says. As Chief Dispatcher, he not only oversees the team but also tackles any challenges that arise. “Our dispatchers are the best in the business, so they can make my day pretty quiet most of the time.”
Curious to learn more about our System Operations Control center (SOC)? Check out this article to learn more.
For Ron, Airline Dispatch Day holds personal and professional significance. “We spend our whole career in the shadows, ensuring we operate a safe and efficient airline,” he states. “It’s nice to have one day out of the year to recognize the hard work of our dispatch team.”
Over his three-and-a-half decades at Sun Country, Ron has witnessed significant changes in the industry. “In the beginning, we were strictly a supplemental airline, meaning dispatchers weren’t even required. Our leadership team knew that in order to grow this airline, we had to become a scheduled service airline, too,” he reflects. Automation has also transformed operations over the past 30 years, leading to a more efficient workflow.
“All of us take pride in getting our passengers to their destination one flight at a time. It’s a great feeling to go home after a shift, knowing you helped thousands of customers reach their destinations ,” he says.
Managing dispatch for our unique mix of scheduled service, charter, and cargo operations poses daily challenges. “I don’t believe there’s another airline in North America with such a complex model as Sun Country. Our size has always been our greatest asset, allowing us to adapt to the ever-changing climate of the airline industry,” he states proudly. “We’ve stumbled many times in my 35 years, but we’ve always gotten up, brushed ourselves off, and gotten the job done. It doesn’t get better than that.”
Even after 35 years, Ron remains energized about his role here, finding excitement in the unpredictable nature of each day. He thrives on the challenges that arise, whether it's managing new aircraft, routes, or procedures. No matter what’s on the horizon, he knows the team will be ready to tackle it head-on with thorough training and a shared commitment to success.
For those aspiring to join the dispatch profession, Ron offers valuable advice: “You must be self-motivated and able to work in a stressful environment. Confidence in your abilities and decision-making is essential, as these skills will be used every day.”
Outside of work, Ron unwinds by traveling the country with his wife, capturing moments with his camera, and indulging in his lifelong passion for aviation. "I've been an airplane nut my whole life," he shares, reflecting on how his love for aviation started in childhood. “Getting together with family is always my favorite pastime, and last but not least, it’s airshows, airshows, and more airshows.” For Ron, the love for airplanes extends far beyond the job—it’s a part of who he is, both on and off the clock.
This Airline Dispatch Day, we celebrate Ron and the invaluable contributions he and his team make every day. If you’re inspired by Ron’s journey and want to embark on your own adventure in the aviation industry, explore our career opportunities. Fly Forward.