In a world where careers often take unexpected turns, Andrew Weerathanongdek has forged a path that blends discipline, resilience and a relentless desire to keep moving forward.
His journey from growing up in San Francisco to flying international cargo planes shows how strong habits and high standards can turn challenges into success.
Andrew says, “I define success by your habit patterns. If you have good habit patterns, you will naturally be successful.” “Be a good person. Be good at your job. If you do both, opportunities will come your way.”
Early life: lessons in drive and determination
Andrew's story begins in San Francisco, California, where he was raised by his single mother who immigrated from Thailand. He met his father at the age of 13, but his sense of discipline and focus came early through sports.
He played tennis and wrestled during high school, earning county titles and becoming recognized as one of Marin County's top athletes. “I played tennis and did martial arts all my life,” he recalls. “I was one of the best tennis players in Marin County and the best wrestler three out of four years.”
Those early experiences taught him two things that would later define his career – perseverance and performance under pressure.
Education: Building a Foundation at the U.S. Air Force Academy
Andrew's athletic success opened the doors to the United States Air Force Academy, where he was recruited for both tennis and wrestling. After a year, he discovered a new passion – rugby. “I enjoyed the game and the camaraderie,” he says. “It taught me teamwork on a level I had never experienced before.”
He graduated with military and athletic honors and immediately began pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base. In the 52-week program, he finished second in his class and earned his first choice of aircraft – the KC-10 Extender.
That accomplishment marked the beginning of a decade-long journey in military aviation, filled with leadership lessons and lifelong friendships.
Military career: moving up quickly through the ranks
At McGuire Air Force Base, Andrew started as a co-pilot before being upgraded to aircraft commander. His rapid progress didn't stop there – within a few years, he was selected as an instructor pilot, and became the youngest to teach in a KC-10 schoolhouse.
“It was the best two years of my military career,” he says. “I taught people of different ranks and ages. It was rewarding to help others reach their potential.”
His leadership and teaching have earned him numerous Instructor of the Quarter awards, chosen by both peers and students. Later, at Travis Air Force Base, he became an evaluator pilot and eventually evaluation chief, supervising pilots, boom operators and flight engineers.
Andrew's approach was simple: Hold yourself accountable and leave the ego at the door. “There are no egos in the cockpit,” he says. “You are part of a team, and safety depends on mutual respect and high standards.”
Changes in civil aviation
After years of service, Andrew faced a turning point. He left the Air Force to pursue a new challenge – corporate leadership. He joined Amazon's competitive Pathway program, designed to prepare future executives. But something didn't feel right.
“After the first year I realized I missed flying,” he says. “That's when I knew I needed to get back in the cockpit.”
He soon joined FlightSafety International as an instructor for the Citation Longitude jet and continues to teach professional pilots under FAA Part 121 standards. Within 18 months, he was promoted to senior trainer and AQP assessor – a role that tested both his leadership and technical skills.
Still, the call to fly remained strong. Today, Andrew serves as a First Officer at Air Transport International, flying large-scale missions that support global logistics and supply chains.
leadership and philosophy in the air
For Andrew, every takeoff and landing is an exercise in precision and mindset. His leadership style is based on personal accountability and positivity – principles shaped by years of flying and teaching.
“Always focus on the positive, learn from the negative and keep moving forward,” he says. “Negative things are there to learn from, not dwell on.”
He also believes that balance is the key to success – especially in a demanding field like aviation. “If you're not good at home, you're not going to be good at work,” Andrew explains. “Take care of yourself and your home first. That's the foundation of everything else.”
Family, hobbies and life beyond the cockpit
When he's not flying, Andrew spends his time in Philadelphia with his wife and their young daughter. Summers are spent at the Jersey Shore, where he goes surfing and introduces his daughter to the water. Winters often take him back to California for snowboarding trips.
“Honestly, anything that uses a board is what I love,” he laughs. “Surfing, snowboarding, skateboarding – I'm happiest outside.”
His personal life focuses on family and he considers fatherhood as his most important role. “My daughter is my best friend and she doesn't even know it yet,” he says. “I try to make every second at home count.”
Giving Back: Philanthropy and Community
Andrew’s leadership extends beyond aviation. In Philadelphia, he worked with Philabundance and helped distribute food to those in need. In California, she volunteered with the SPCA, caring for animals and maintaining shelters.
Those experiences remind them that leadership isn't just about titles – it's about service. “Helping others empowers me,” he says. “It puts life in perspective.”
The mindset that helps him move forward
The story of Andrew Weerathanongdech is one of perseverance, humility and growth. Whether flying international routes or mentoring fellow pilots, he brings the same dedication that took him from the wrestling mats of Marin County to the cockpit of Air Transport International.
His philosophy is simple but powerful: stay positive, stay disciplined and never stop moving forward.
“Don't let someone else say no – don't say no to yourself,” he says. “Even if they do, there may still be a way to get what you want.”
You can learn more about Andrew Weerathanongdech and his professional journey on his official LinkedIn profile.
