"Alaska Airlines has been a longtime supporter of Aviation High School because we strongly believe in its mission," said Dennis Hamel, vice president/human resources for Alaska Airlines. Hamel, along with other Alaska Airlines executives, members of the Airline Pilots Association, and representatives from The Museum of Flight were on hand to welcome Aviation High School graduating seniors and members of the ACE Club to the "ride of their life" - a flight from Boeing's Delivery Center at Boeing Field to Alaska Airline's hangar at Sea-Tac Airport aboard a brand-new 737-800.

Alaska is joining other local corporations as a major participant in the district's campaign to build a new high school facility at The Museum of Flight. Hamel commented, "Aviation High School's unique approach not only benefits the students but the aviation and aerospace industries, the community, and the ability of our state and nation to innovate and build a better future for all of us."

Hamel, who has served on the board of directors for Aviation High School since its inception, will be retiring this year. Alaska is committed, however, to continuing its active involvement in furthering the success of Aviation High School and its vital education mission.