As a currently serving Lieutenant in the Oklahoma Army National Guard, Kaylyn Gomez exemplifies continued service, leadership, and impact both in and out of uniform. She was awarded the Army National Defense Service Medal for honorable service during the national emergency declared in response to COVID-19. While on active orders, she supported statewide response operations, helping manage and distribute critical PPE supplies to protect frontline workers and local communities.
She ranked among the top candidates during Oklahoma Army National Guard Officer Candidate School and earned selection into the Aviation branch. Today, she serves as a CH-47F Chinook pilot, entrusted with missions requiring precision and accountability. She is also one of only two female CH-47 pilots in Oklahoma, reflecting both her technical expertise and her role as a trailblazer within Army aviation.
Beyond her military service, Kaylyn is the Founder and CEO of SkyDeen Connections, a veteran-owned staffing and recruiting agency focused on placing veterans into aviation and technical careers. Her mission is to bridge the gap between military experience and civilian workforce demands, ensuring transitioning service members have access to meaningful, long-term career pathways. Through this work, she actively advocates for veteran employment and workforce development within high-skill industries.
She also serves as Co-Director of Startup Grind Oklahoma City, supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening the local business ecosystem. Additionally, she serves as Vice President of Awards for the Army Aviation Association of America Oklahoma Thunderbird Chapter, overseeing recognition efforts that honor excellence within the aviation community.
Through military service, entrepreneurial leadership, and community engagement, Kaylyn remains committed to advancing veterans and strengthening the organizations she serves. She represents the values of service, integrity, and impact as a candidate for Veteran of the Year.
