Karyn Fernandes

Co-founder & Principal Domain Architect
Telos travel.ai
Edina, MN 55435

Karyn Fernandes is a seasoned airline industry professional with over 22 years of experience in pricing systems, revenue management, and strategic application of technology. Rising through the ranks in the airline sector, she developed deep expertise in optimizing revenue, leveraging both legacy systems such as ATPCO, IATA TTBS, Sabre, and Navitaire, as well as emerging standards including NDC and digital APIs. Karyn is also one of the founders of a new start-up company, applying her industry knowledge and entrepreneurial vision to innovative solutions in travel technology. As a technology-focused strategist, Karyn excels in integrating AI and digital tools to enhance airline analyst experience and boost business performance. She combines meticulous attention to detail with strong financial acumen, ensuring initiatives such as budgeting, forecasting, and process optimization are executed with precision. Her leadership experience includes guiding cross-functional teams, implementing strategic initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Karyn is currently writing a book about the founding of her long-time employer and beloved Sun Country Airlines, and is actively engaging with publishers to share the story with a broader audience. Outside of her professional pursuits, Karyn is an avid swimmer and is part of a masters swim team, reflecting her dedication to fitness and personal growth. She has a history of balancing professional commitments with her broader life goals, such as homeschooling her children when they were small and teaching Spanish classes at a co-op. Karyn holds a Bachelor of Science in International Business and Spanish from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where she was a Division II swimmer, and is a Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO).

• AI Studio No-code Certification
• Become a WRITER Power User
• Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)
• Academy Accreditation - Databricks Lakehouse Fundamentals

• Minnesota State University, Mankato - BS

Q

What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to being a lifelong learner who consistently takes initiative to understand every facet of my industry. My commitment to expanding my knowledge, diving into complex systems, and proactively seeking out new skills has played a central role in shaping my career and bringing me to where I am today.

Q

What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Listen to your heart and trust your gut. Don’t just do things by default- be intentional. Learn deeply and speak confidently. There is a lot of time in life to accomplish many goals- you don’t have to do it all at the same time- just be strategic about what you want to do and when.

Q

What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Integrity, grit, communication, transparency.

Locations

Telos travel.ai

Edina, MN 55435