2022 OUTSTANDING DIRECTORS.

• Author: Malan, Mekenna

Every year, Utah Business and NACD Utah honor the board members of companies, nonprofits, and organizations for the inspirational work they do behind the scenes to create lasting innovation and growth for future generations. Congratulations to the 2022 Outstanding Directors honorees.

LARGE COMPANY

RUSSELL "CHIP" CHILDS

PRESIDENT AND CEO | SKYWEST, INC.

What in your personal and professional life prepared you for the responsibility of corporate directorship?

I worked in asphalt, construction, and trucking. These labor-intensive jobs helped build the grit, determination, and grounded connection that I still use today. Every job I had on the front lines prepared me to be on a board and become a CEO. The front line is where you are most closely connected to the customer experience, what your people need to deliver a solid product, and the work it takes to do so.

Have you seen the role of boards change over time, and if so, in what ways?

Yes, both the makeup and role of boards have changed over time. First, thankfully, there is more diversity--not only in visible ways but also in a broader diversity of thought and skill across boards. That benefits everyone. Second, boards have changed to have a more socially-conscious mindset in general. I believe boards will continue to evolve as awareness changes of the different challenges we face as a society and the positive impact we can drive.

How have your board positions influenced the way you approach business?

Being on different boards broadens your perspective, encourages you to think outside the box, and helps reinforce the essential nature of staying connected to the employees and customers of your business.

If you could serve on any board, which would it be and why?

I'm a big believer in clean and economical energy sources. I think it would be very intriguing to serve on the board of some type of clean nuclear energy company.

PRIVATE COMPANY

MARIA GARCIAZ

DIRECTOR | AMERICAN EXPRESS CENTURION BANK

in /IN/MARIA-GARCIAZ-B19254A/#EDUCATION

What do you enjoy most about being a director?

The interaction with colleagues and working with some passionate and brilliant individuals.

What is the most rewarding thing about the work you do? Why?

Connecting resources to individuals in need. It is important to me because, throughout my path in life, there was always someone who cared enough to connect me to a resource that helped me either in my education or career.

How have your board positions influenced the...