Girls In Aviation Tech Day Inspires Women To Reach For The Sky
Women have faced persistent challenges in aviation.
They’ve also made notable achievements.
As a woman with 12 years of experience in the aerospace industry who is pursuing an associate’s degree in professional pilot technology at Miami Dade College, I have experienced both sides of the coin.
This month, I attended the soFLy Girls in Aviation Tech Day, an event organized by the Southern Tropics chapter of Women in Aviation International, a non-profit organization that aims to equip and inspire females to explore careers in aeronautics.
The event, held on International Women’s Day at the AAR Airframe Miami MRO—an aircraft services facility—offers high school and college students hands-on experience in aviation and STEM.
It featured conference sessions, networking events, information tables, a tour of an airplane and delicious ice cream.
Historically, social bias and discrimination hindered women from accessing aviation education and employment.
Even today, females in the field encounter discrepancies in pay and lack recognition for their achievements compared to their male counterparts.
But, women have made significant contributions to the aviation industry, bringing diversity, innovation and fresh perspectives.
They have also defied gender stereotypes and paved the way for future generations, not only in the aerospace industry, but across STEM fields.
However, because aviation is still a male-dominated field, women seek role models and mentors to help them with their careers.
Events like the soFLY Girls in Aviation Tech Day play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of female pilots, technicians and engineers.
Through conference sessions, young girls get exposure to opportunities in the aerospace industry, including avionics, mechanics, maintenance procedures, pilotry, record management and traffic control.
By listening to the success stories and struggles of experienced professionals, girls have steps they can follow.
These events also provide young women with a community to lean on when they face adversity.
Supporting and empowering women in aviation and STEM fields is essential to creating a more inclusive and innovative industry.
By providing equal opportunities, mentorship and recognition, we can unlock the potential of women in aerospace fields and inspire future generations to reach new heights.