"More Work to Be Done", says Former Airbus Exec

Katherine Bennett, CBE and CEO of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, has been named 2022 Woman of Excellence by the International Aviation Women’s Association (IAWA). 

The body cites her "unwavering commitment to the advancement and support of women" in aviation, adding her to the pool of recognized leaders helping to advance their sisters and build the landscape of aeronautics. During her address in accepting the award, Bennett said there's still much more to be done to represent women in aviation, despite the headway made in recent decades. 

Bennett has been a long-time advocate for women in the industry for years, like her decision to create the UK chapter of Women in Aviation and Aerospace. Her first large gigs were with Hill and Knowlton Public Relations and Vauxhall Motors, where she worked in government affairs. Following her stint there, she spent 16 years as a Senior Vice President with Airbus, driving the company's external engagement and strategy in the UK. Afterwards, she joined High Value Manufacturing Catapult as CEO in June of 2021. She has been awarded with the Order of Commander of the British Empire in January 2019 for services to the aerospace and aviation sector. 

“Katherine’s unwavering commitment to the advancement and support of women in this field and the development of the next generation of leaders is unparalleled,” said IAWA President, Kathleen Guilfoyle. “I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for this prestigious award.”

“I am honored to receive the 2022 IAWA Woman of Excellence Award," said Bennet in her acceptance address. "When less than 15% of global leadership in aviation and aerospace are women, there is clearly more work to be done. I will continue to work on improving gender representation in the industry.”

FMI: www.IAWA.org