Hundreds Of Women Aviators Gather For Group Photo And Inspiring Events

By Maxine Scheer

It was hard to miss the energy, enthusiasm, and interest in aviation by hundreds of women, donning commemorative purple t-shirts, celebrating aviation during EAA AirVenture. On Wednesday, July 30th, a day-long roster of women-centric events were organized by Women in Aviation, International (WAI), the 99s and EAA.

The day started with a breakfast at the Nature Center, where WAI members and supporters, both men and women, learned about new WAI scholarships, chapter programs and honored participation by Women Air Force Service Pilots (WASPs). WAI President Peggy Chabrian (pictured) announced over $517,000 was committed thus far for 91 scholarships to be awarded at the 2015 WAI Conference in Dallas. Peggy acknowledged two new agriculture pilot scholarships in 2014, sponsored by Thrush Aircraft, and described how in 2015, there are already four new scholarships, including a 737-NG Type Rating Scholarship from Boeing.

"Our membership includes literally thousands of role models for girls, from airline pilots to aeronautical engineers and air traffic controllers, from recreational pilots to those who earn their living in the aviation industry," added Chabrian. WAI reported a 90-chapter milestone was reached in 2014, with new chapters being formed each year. WAI chapters conduct a variety of social, educational, and volunteer events and on September 26, 2015, will join together in a new program, "Girls in Aviation Day".

Teenage girls who participated in "Women Soar You Soar" attended the WomenVenture events and were treated to a discussion with members of the WASPs. There were many moments of spontaneous laughter as these WWII heroes described how they responded to a generation that didn't welcome women aviators.

It was hard to miss the annual WomenVenture group photo on Boeing Plaza, and the subsequent gathering at Theatre in the Woods for a lunch and presentation by Debbie Travis-King, the first woman to pilot a B-29 in 70 years. Debbie flew the Commemorative Air Force's FiFi at AirVenture 2013. She also flies the B-24 (Diamond Lil). Debbie talked about the 'why' behind her interest in Warbirds and shared recommendations with the audience, which included many young women aviators, for persisting through the challenges of achieving their pilot goals. "You need to stack a box full of fans," said Debbie, "but they need to be ones who will empathize, but will also ask you, so, when are you scheduling your next flight?"

"Every year, WomenVenture grows in popularity," says Chabrian. "With the support and camaraderie WomenVenture provides, we have a host of success stories of women who identify WomenVenture as the tipping point in their aviation interest."

(Bottom image Women Soar You Soar group photo. Staff photos)

FMI: www.wai.org