If you could have dinner with any pioneering woman in aviation history, who would it be and why? If I could have dinner with any pioneering woman in aviation history, my choice would be Colleen Barrett, the former President and COO of Southwest Airlines. She made history as the highest-ranking woman in the commercial airline industry from 2001 to 2008. What stands out to me about Colleen is her profound passion for people. Under her leadership, Southwest became renowned for its employee and client-focused culture, which truly reflected her deep care for humanity. I am especially inspired by leaders who prioritize others and cultivate environments where people thrive. Colleen Barrett’s ability to blend her love for aviation with a genuine commitment to people is something I deeply admire and aspire to emulate in my own career.
What’s the most unexpected lesson you’ve learned from working with inspiring women in the aviation industry? The most unexpected lesson I’ve learned from working with inspiring women in the aviation industry is that there are others who share your passion, drive, courage, and willingness to help others. When you feel like a one-woman show, it’s often because you’ve created an environment that allows you to function that way. I’ve realized that building a supportive community around your aspirations requires trust and the ability to let go. The women I’ve admired the most are those who achieve so much within the same 24 hours we all have. How do they do it? They widen their path, make space for trust, and allow others to walk alongside them. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the power of uplifting and supporting a community. One of my favorite and most relatable quotes is, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This wisdom has profoundly shaped my approach to my career and life.
If your journey in aviation were a movie, what would be the title, and who would play you? Make it Happen starring Zoe Saldana
What’s your favorite way to celebrate small wins within the organization? My favorite way to celebrate small wins within the organization is by hosting events—I love turning any celebration into a memorable occasion. When hosting an event isn’t possible, I still make it a point to celebrate by highlighting the moment with an inspiring message, a lunch, or a sweet treat, depending on what feels appropriate for the occasion.
If you could design a custom aircraft with one unique feature, what would it be, and how would it reflect your vision for empowering women in aviation? If I could design a custom aircraft with one unique feature, it would be a traveling classroom where women can record masterclasses that others can view through an in-flight mentorship program. This aircraft would serve as a vessel to transport mentors to popular destination cities, with the added requirement that they record a “masterclass” while in the air. These recorded sessions would then be compiled into a course that can be used as a valuable tool for professional development within aviation, accessible to women everywhere.
Looking to make an impact in the lives of young women to inspire them to pursue a career in aviation? Start today and support our 2024 “Girls in Aviation Day” in Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Visit https://soflywai.org/giad/ to secure your sponsorship today!
