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WTS Philadelphia Hosts Final Program of the Year: WTS Breaking Barriers for Women in Aviation

On December 5, 2023, WTS Philadelphia hosted our final program of the year: Breaking Barriers for Women in Aviation. Over 120 people from across the country tuned into this virtual event, which featured a presentation on the Women in Aviation Advisory Board (WIAAB) 2022 report and a compelling panel discussion with accomplished aviation professionals, shedding light on their remarkable careers and the efforts they are making to inspire underrepresented individuals in the field.

Established by Congress in 2020, the WIAAB comprises of 30 distinguished women from diverse backgrounds, all appointed with the crucial task of tackling the significant underrepresentation of women in aviation. Their mission is to assess the current state of the industry and propose recommendations to chart a course toward a more equitable and robust future. The WIAAB's 2022 report provides valuable insights into the systemic challenges faced by women in aviation and offers actionable strategies to overcome these obstacles.

A highlight of the event was the engaging panel discussion featuring four influential women in aviation: Dana Donati, CEO, Breaking Down Barriers; Kelly Jost, Airport Planning, Design and Construction Leader and Civil Engineer at C&S Companies; Melinda Montgomery, Trenton-Mercer Airport Manager; and Eboni Wimbush, President & CEO of the Airport Minority Advisory Council. Moderated by WTS Philadelphia President and Deputy Director of Aviation, Capital Development, at the Philadelphia International Airport and Northeast Philadelphia Airport, Api Appulingam, the panelists shared their personal journeys, highlighting the challenges they encountered throughout their remarkable careers. From breaking through barriers to achieving success, the panelists offered candid insights into their experiences.

For those who missed the event:

• Download the WIAAB's insightful report here.
• View a recording of the presentation here.
• Check out photos from the event here.

WTS Philadelphia's Breaking Barriers for Women in Aviation Event was a resounding success, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to create a more inclusive aviation sector. As we continue to celebrate and support the achievements of women in aviation, let's take inspiration from these leaders and collectively work towards a future where the sky truly knows no limits for anyone, regardless of gender or background.

Thank you to Kelly Freeman, Director of WTS Philadelphia Programs Committee, Jen Waters, Director of WTS Philadelphia Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Api Appulingam, WTS Philadelphia President and Danielle Eisenstock, Urban Engineers and Zoom Coordinator for making this event a success!