Tammie Jo Shults’ passion to become a pilot was fueled by the jets roaring overhead from nearby Holloman Air Force Base and drove her to incredible achievements in her career. Born and raised on a New Mexico ranch, Shults attended MidAmerica Nazarene College earning biology and agribusiness degrees. During graduate school at Western New Mexico University, she met a female U.S. Air Force pilot and her passion to become a pilot was reignited. In 1985, she was approved for Aviation Officer Candidate School and became a flight instructor for the T-2 Buckeye and the A-7 Corsair. Under the command of Captain Rosemary Mariner, Shults became one of the first female naval pilots to qualify in the F/A-18 Hornet and flew training missions during Operation Desert Storm. In 1995, she was promoted to lieutenant commander, transitioned to the Navy Reserve where she flew the F-18 and EA-6B Prowler.
Shults later became a captain for Southwest Airlines and was known for her piloting skills, leadership and calm under pressure. On April 17, 2018, Shults was piloting Southwest Airlines Flight 1380
when the Boeing 737 experienced an engine explosion causing multiple system failures and rapid cabin depressurization. Shults along with her crew successfully landed the crippled plane saving 148 passengers and crew. Recognized for her heroic efforts, Shults attributed her aviation experience, positive approach to all situations and the strength of her crew for the safe landing.
“Don’t let an offense get in the way of a great opportunity.” – Tammie Jo Shults
