Aviation for Women is the flagship member publication of Women in Aviation International. Articles feature women who have made aviation history, professional development ideas, and current-topic articles.
Issue link: https://afwdigital.epubxp.com/i/715635
4 Aviation forWomen S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R 2 0 1 6 I have always found fall to be one of my favorite times to fly—the air is crisp, the mornings clear, and the view of the foliage spectacular from the cockpit flying over the countryside. Whether you are a student pilot, flying for a career, designing or maintaining aircraft, or enjoying retirement, the inspira- tion of being in aviation never leaves us. This summer your WAI board of directors met to discuss CHAIRMAN'S VIEW K A R E N G E B H A R T W A I C H A I R M A N O F T H E B O A R D the view for WAI's long-term strategic goals. We pondered the state of our indus- try, the changing opportunities, and how WAI will continue to support the future of women in all facets of aviation. Our strategic priorities are in three areas. First, attracting new members from and being inclusive of all walks of aviation careers and interests. Second, expanding our benefits to increase the value of mem- bership for new and current members. And third, fostering and inspiring women in a career in aviation. These are not new ideas, but a focus on core values of WAI, with the intent to ex- pand in each area. As we look toward a more inclusive mem- bership, we look to all the various roles women play in every aviation organization—whether pilot, maintenance techni- cian or flight attendant, engineering or sales, active or retired, WAI is home for all women. Through expanding our benefits, we are working to refine and enhance our annual conference to meet your needs and to provide meaningful resources that help you throughout the lifecycle of your ca- reer in aviation. You have already seen the result of a terrific WAI staff initiative—the launch of the new WAI website. When it comes to fostering the future, look for in- creased use of social media to connect us, more support of girls and women entering aviation, more engagement with chapters, and enhanced networking opportunities at all the conferences and events WAI hosts or attends. Ultimately, the future for all girls and women in aviation is dependent on you. How will you engage? There are many opportunities—simply being a current member of WAI is a start. Attending the annual confer- ence or a regional meeting is a great opportunity for interaction. But there are more options if you can't make it to the annual conference. Consid- er joining a local chapter—interact where you can be present. If you have the time and com- mitment, apply for a WAI board committee— your expertise may be what is most needed to move an initiative forward. Look for WAI activ- ities at air shows and conferences throughout the year. Introduce yourself and ask what you can do to help. Engage in WAI social media— spread the word. Your WAI board of directors is ready and will- ing to help WAI prepare for the future, and we in- vite you to join us. ✈ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Gebhart, WAI 522, is vice president of busi- ness development for Helicopter Association Inter- national (HAI) and chairman of the WAI board of directors. Ultimately, the future for all girls and women in aviation is dependent on you. How will you engage? Your 2016-2017 Board of Directors Karen Gebhart, Chairman Anna Dietrich, Vice Chairman Marci Veroni, Secretary Deborah Baugh, Treasurer Dr. Peggy Chabrian, President Brian Bolt Deborah Hecker Linda Markham Lauren McFarland Abingdon Chelsea Welch