September 30, 2015

Girls in Aviation Day: Atlanta, Ga.

In Atlanta, Ga., the Girls in Aviation event included volunteers from Endeavor and ExpressJet, among others, and allowed girls to learn more about a variety of aviation professions—pilot, dispatcher, flight attendant, air traffic controller, safety professional, engineer, mechanic, and helicopter pilot/mechanic. It provided a reminder that, as F/O Jenifier Nam (Endeavor) put it, “Young women can do anything they set their heart and mind to.” She continued, “I grew up with a passion to fly but never thought I could. There was no influence or mentors for me growing up. So if I can inspire or share my knowledge about aviation to anyone, then it’s worth volunteering.”

F/O Kimberly Matthews (ExpressJet) also talked about providing inspiration. “I never questioned my ability to be a pilot (even though I’m female),” she said, “because growing up my parents always made sure I knew I was capable of whatever I set my mind and heart to. Some of my friends weren’t told this and as a result questioned their own capabilities. I find I enjoy passing that confidence on to the younger generation.”

F/O Tiffani Gibson (ExpressJet) felt called to give back in tribute to “all the mentors that have helped me become the airline pilot I am today,” including Girl Scout leaders and her mom. She admitted that she didn’t expect to see a lot of people in Atlanta, but when she found out how many girls would be there, “I was excited, overjoyed, and ready to start telling the girls to reach for their dreams.” And that feeling didn’t go away: “When you see the smiles and hear the questions from the girls, and a lightbulb goes off, it’s the best feeling in the world to see that you have made an impact in their life.” Added F/O Elisabeth Powell (ExpressJet), “As a mom myself, hearing kids’ excitement over events is one of the most enjoyable moments.”

See ALPA’s Flickr page for photographs of the various Girls in Aviation Day events submitted by pilots. Did you attend an event and want to share your own photos? Share with us using #girlsinaviation, or send to Communications@alpa.org and we’ll add them to the collection.

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