The aviation industry has always been dominated by men, but women are making significant strides in breaking down barriers and taking up positions in various areas of the industry. Despite the challenges, many women have been able to balance their careers, family, and leisure activities while pursuing their passions in aviation.

Recently, several women in aviation were featured on the Private Air Media Podcast, discussing their experiences in the industry. Their stories serve as an inspiration to other women who are considering a career in aviation. These women have overcome significant challenges and achieved success in their careers, while also balancing their personal lives and pursuing their passions.

Among them were:

Shannon Peterson, Regional Sales Director, Northeast, Textron Aviation
Jackelynne Silva-Martinez, Artemis Mission Integrator, NASA Johnson Space Center
Tracie Carwile, VP Global Sales & Inclusion, Global/Ground Transport
Veronica Velasquez, Professional Pilot, Right Rudder Aero, LLC
Liz Davidson, Professional Pilot, A&P IA, Lake Clark Air Service, Alaska
Kizna Loosle, First Officer, Southwest Airlines, Las Vegas Based

One of the significant challenges faced by women in aviation is the perception that it is a male-dominated industry. This perception can make it difficult for women to gain acceptance, be taken seriously, and progress in their careers. Gender discrimination is still prevalent in some parts of the industry, especially in technical and managerial roles. Women are often paid less than their male counterparts, even when they have similar qualifications and experience.

Another challenge is the lack of female role models and mentors in the industry. This can make it difficult for women to identify with and relate to others who have faced similar challenges. Having someone to turn to for advice and guidance can be beneficial in navigating the complexities of the industry.

The aviation industry is also notorious for its long and irregular working hours, which can make it difficult for women to balance their work and family responsibilities. Many women have to make significant sacrifices in their personal lives to advance in their careers, and this can be particularly challenging for those with children. Additionally, the work environment can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring individuals to have high levels of mental and physical resilience.

“I think the main thing is just having that support and asking for help because that’s hard, right? When you’re feeling down and you’re feeling overwhelmed, you lean on other people, and having that support has helped me a lot and there’s a stereotype and especially with airline pilots, you’re just gone all the time. It just depends on what you want in your career”, say Kizna Loosle, First Officer, Southwest Airlines.

Despite these challenges, being a woman in aviation can be immensely rewarding. One of the most significant rewards is the sense of achievement and pride that comes with breaking down barriers and succeeding in a male-dominated industry. Women who pursue careers in aviation are trailblazers, and their successes inspire and motivate others to follow in their footsteps.

Another guest was Veronica Velasquez, Professional Pilot, Right Rudder Aero, LLC. Veronica discussed how she balances her career, family, and leisure activities. “It’s a balance. You work your schedule, in alignment with your spouse and your family and your support system your friends, and it can work and flow smoothly. It’s just 100% your time management and how you handle work, whether it’s the calendars on mobile, the digital calendars, but it can work and it can be very smooth. I think young girls need to hear that you can have a family and you can be a successful career woman in aerospace and aviation, in sales and all of that., says Veronica.

The aviation industry is also diverse, offering a wide range of career paths and opportunities for women. Whether you are interested in technical roles such as engineering and maintenance, or non-technical roles such as management and marketing, there is a place for women in aviation. The industry is also constantly evolving, with new technologies and innovations that provide exciting opportunities for women to contribute their skills and expertise.

Women in aviation also have the opportunity to make a significant impact on society. Aviation plays a vital role in the global economy, connecting people and businesses from all over the world. Women in aviation are at the forefront of this, making important contributions to the industry’s growth and development.

The aviation industry is becoming more inclusive and diverse, thanks to the growing numbers of women breaking into the industry. Balancing a career, family life, and leisure time is not easy, but women in aviation continue to show that career and family are not mutually exclusive. Although challenges exist, such as gender inequality and work-life balance, the industry is gradually making progress to address such issues. The rewards, particularly paving the way for future generations, career opportunities, and international placements, make the aviation industry a unique and exciting career choice for women. Therefore, it is essential to continue supporting women in aviation and encouraging more girls to pursue careers in aviation.

Photo by Owen Lystrup

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