Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) is part of a multi-faceted international youth program designed by Women in Aviation International (WAI) to spark interest in aviation and aerospace careers among girls and young women around the world. WAI Ireland Chapter celebrated the day in Shannon Aviation Museum on 19 September.
Sponsored by Stellaer 212 and ASG, the day provided for up to 50 girls (11-18 yrs) to meet pilots, ATCOs, engineers, leasing professionals, and others. They also had a chance to land a Boeing 737 simulator and put the theory of flight into practice in a Cessna simulator.
Over 30 women volunteered on the day – from a wide range of aviation professions. The women were very generous and took the time explaining their personal career path and the lifestyle possibilities in aviation. One young woman had been an attendee at last year’s GIAD and is now a 1st year student of Aviation Management. Stellaer 212 hosted a stand where women pilots and operations controllers recalled their journeys into aviation. The Irish Air Corps was well represented by pilots, engineers, and strategic operational personnel. Atlantic Flight Training Academy cadets were on-hand to help with the Cessna simulators and AirNav allowed everyone to try their hand at controlling dots on a screen without losing separation – much harder than it sounds!!
The girls left after a short quiz with some spot prizes. However, they didn’t leave empty handed – WAI had provided GIAD goodie bags which were topped up by Shannon Engine Support, AerCap, and Aero Inspection International.
Feedback from the grown-ups who attended with the girls was extremely positive. This year has seen a more diverse attendance with coverage on local radio stations resulting in girls without direct family connections to aviation making the trip to Shannon for the day. One mother said that her daughter had never heard of Air Traffic Control before that day, and now she wants to become a Controller!!!
Women in Aviation International gives access to a powerful global network, career-advancing resources, and a supportive community dedicated to helping you grow and succeed in the aviation and aerospace industry. To join the Ireland Chapter please go to www.wai.org
