Jason Woo

Excellence in Diversity Award 2025

Jason Woo, a 2011 summa cum laude graduate of WMU’s College of Aviation, exemplifies global citizenship, professional excellence, and a deep commitment to diversity in aviation. Originally from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Woo’s journey to WMU was made possible through the Haenicke Institute for Global Education, which opened doors for international students to pursue flight training in the U.S. After earning his degree, Woo served as a flight instructor at WMU and later at Korea Aerospace University, where he taught in a complex airspace near North Korea and mentored students for whom English was a second language. His career spans multiple continents, including roles at Compass Airlines, Frontier, Delta, and currently FedEx, where he is an Oakland based 767 First Officer who mostly flies intra-Asian routes from their Guangzhou hub. Woo’s dedication to community service and mentorship is evident in his founding role with the Professional Asian Pilots Association (PAPA), a national organization that has awarded over $3M in scholarships (over $500,000 annually) and mentors hundreds of aspiring aviators. He also helped

establish a WMU chapter of PAPA and continues to support student engagement through Aviation Outlook Day and mentoring initiatives. While at WMU, Woo served as a peer mentor in the STEM Program, supporting students in English, math, and science. His passion for aviation and education continues to inspire students and professionals alike. Fluent in five languages, Woo believes aviation has made the world smaller and more connected. Jason Woo’s career reflects integrity, service, and a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in aviation—making him a distinguished nominee for the Excellence in Diversity Award.