Another Energetic And Packed Women In Aviation, Intl. Conference

With motivating speakers such as flight instructor extraordinaire, Rod Machado and Jessica Cox, the first armless person to pilot an aircraft, the conference was filled with energy and inspiration. FAA Administrator Michael Huerta addressed a packed general session on Friday morning providing updates on drone registration and the importance of educating operators about the national airspace system. Recognition of the U.S. Coast Guard Aviation Centennial was also celebrated, honoring 100 years of distinguished aviation service by the men and women of the United States Coast Guard.

For many attendees, the conference also served as a platform to connect with future employers. Walking around the conference, a majority of attendees were dressed in crisp suits and lined up eager to speak with airline recruiters. Access to airline recruiters, once a "best kept secret" of the conference, has become a main highlight. Women in Aviation, International (WAI) now implements a Fast Pass program to allow attendees the opportunity to sign up for timeslots for airline interviews to avoid long lines and standing crowds in the exhibit hall.

With a solid vision on providing opportunities for women within the aviation and aerospace communities, the organization was proud to award 126 scholarships at the conference, reaching a milestone of more than $10 million dollars awarded in scholarships since the organization's inception. Young girls were also invited to participate in Girls in Aviation Day and earn the new Girl Scout Patch that features an airplane and the title of "Aviation Girl". The outreach event serves as a capstone for the upcoming global Girls in Aviation Day in September, where local WAI chapters will be encouraged to hold their own inspiring events for young girls.

The conference returns to Disney's Coronado Springs Resort in Orlando, Fla in 2017.