This weekend, as thousands of aviation enthusiasts gather at the annual International Women in Aviation conference in Reno, Nev., looking to fulfill their dreams of becoming an airline pilot, ALPA members and staff from across the country will be on hand to serve as the face and the voice of the professional female ALPA pilot.
When we look back at the extraordinary history of women in aviation, we see intelligent, courageous women who overcame tremendous obstacles to become pioneering pilots. However, there is certainly more work to be done to encourage women to pursue careers in aviation and to promote programs supporting their professional development in the field.
Events like the International Women in Aviation conference provide crucial opportunities for the next generation of aviators—from young girls who are curious to learn more about the airline industry to military pilots who are interested in furthering their careers—to make face-to-face connections with today’s pilots. ALPA pilots will take part in panel discussions on topics from safety-related concerns to family issues affecting women in aviation, as well as be available throughout the conference to help answer any questions about what it takes to become a professional aviator.
ALPA remains committed to exploring all avenues to attract the best and brightest to the piloting profession while maintaining the safety standards that have helped to make North American air transportation the safest in the world. If you are one of the many who are heading to the conference this year and thinking about launching a career in aviation, stop by our booth in the exhibit hall or attend one of our panels and find out why it’s a great time to become a professional airline pilot. www.clearedtodream.org