Empowering Current and Future Aviators at the 36th Annual Women in Aviation International Conference

The 36th Annual Women in Aviation International (WAI) Conference welcomed thousands of aviation enthusiasts, professionals, and aspiring pilots to Denver, Colo., on March 27–29. This year’s gathering continued the tradition of connecting, inspiring, and advancing women in all aviation career paths. Once again, ALPA was on hand demonstrating strong representation and engagement with current and future aviation professionals.

Leadership in Action

Capt. Jason Ambrosi, ALPA’s president, and Capt. Wendy Morse, ALPA’s first vice president, were among the dozens of Association pilots who volunteered their time to meet and interact with attendees. They also took part in high-profile panel discussions that focused on critical industry topics, with safety standards at the forefront of conversations.

A highlight of the conference was the keynote panel discussion “Our Allies Speak Out,” which was moderated by WAI CEO Lynda Coffman. Ambrosi participated alongside other industry leaders, including Bart Roberts, executive director of Cirrus Aircraft, and F/O Titus Sanders (United), program chair of the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, for this timely discussion on maintaining high qualification standards in aviation while promoting diversity and the importance of mentorship and allyship in creating an inclusive industry.

“All pilots are held to the same high qualification standards that have made aviation safer,” remarked Ambrosi. “We must create opportunities for the next generation by reducing barriers while maintaining these standards. Anyone with the aptitude and talent to be a good pilot should be welcomed into our profession, regardless of background.”

Panelists encouraged colleagues to maintain positive and inclusive attitudes, challenge negative behaviors through personal conversations rather than social media confrontations, and actively support equity initiatives. They noted that while the most vocal voices are sometimes negative, the majority of industry professionals support greater equity in aviation.

“Aviation thrives on mentorship and inclusion,” Ambrosi noted. “It’s important that we all speak up when we see harmful behavior, have those difficult face-to-face conversations, and actively support equity initiatives. The majority of us want equity in aviation, but we need more voices to counter negative dialogues.”

Political Support and Advocacy

Another impactful discussion was ALPA’s panel “Why Engaging in State Policy Issues Fosters Work-Life Balance.” Led by Morse, the panel provided another opportunity to underscore the Association’s commitment to aviation safety while reinforcing the collective commitment to supporting female pilots.

“There are no shortcuts to safety. All airline pilots are held to the same rigorous qualifications and are trained and evaluated to the same uncompromising standards,” Morse stated.

This year, ALPA invited U.S. Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA-44) to join the panel, which highlighted the importance of legislative engagement at federal, state, and local levels in breaking down barriers for women in aviation. Also joining the discussion were F/O Kaori Paris (United), ALPA’s Professional Development Group chair; Capt. Jolanda Witvliet (United), ALPA’s Family Assistance Working Group lead; and Capt. Sara Baer (Alaska), a member of ALPA’s Education Committee, who offered insights into how airlines have increasingly lobbied at the state level to exclude pilots and flight attendants from labor protections.

“ALPA is grateful for such thoughtful and engaged leaders like Rep. Barragán, who works tirelessly to help us break down barriers for women in aviation and ensure that there’s room for everyone who has the passion and dedication to become a qualified airline pilot,” Morse remarked during the panel discussion.

The inclusion of political representation at this year’s gathering underscores the growing recognition of aviation diversity as both an industry and policy priority. The Association’s continued advocacy work with legislators has become increasingly important as the industry addresses pilot supply concerns while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Connecting with the Next Generation

Following the tradition established at previous conferences, ALPA hosted a series of events along with staffing a booth, attracting hundreds of current and future pilots eager to discuss the profession. Association volunteers facilitated conversations about careers in aviation, provided résumé feedback, and offered guidance on work-life balance—a topic that remains critically important for many considering a piloting career.

The conference also featured educational sessions, professional development workshops, and an exhibit hall filled with aviation and aerospace exhibitors. These all provided valuable opportunities for networking, mentorship, and career advancement for women at all stages of their aviation journeys.

Breaking Barriers, Setting Records

WAI has been instrumental in promoting diversity in aviation careers since its founding in 1990. While women currently represent approximately 7 percent of all certificated pilots in the United States, organizations like WAI and ALPA are working to increase these numbers through outreach, education, and advocacy.

This year’s conference stressed the importance of maintaining high qualification standards while simultaneously expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups. Association representatives consistently emphasized that diversity and safety are complementary goals—both achievable with the right support systems and training infrastructure.

The Path Forward

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the need for qualified pilots remains strong. ALPA’s presence at events like the WAI Conference reflects the Association’s commitment to ensuring that pilots represent the diverse communities they serve.

The conference also demonstrated that the pathway to the flight deck should be accessible to all who possess the dedication and ability to meet the profession’s high standards. Through mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities, and continued advocacy, ALPA and WAI are working to make this vision a reality.

“My daughter is 10 years old, and I want her to have opportunities that women 30 years ago didn’t have when I was going through it,” Ambrosi commented during his keynote discussion. “It’s about getting out there and doing that outreach. I commend everyone here today at the Women in Aviation International Conference and other organizations who work together and individually to offer scholarships and advocate to open doors.”

Looking Ahead

As the conference concluded, attendees were already looking forward to next year’s gathering. The 37th Annual WAI Conference will take place March 19–21, 2026, in Grapevine, Tex., and promises to build upon the momentum generated in Denver.

For ALPA, the work continues beyond the conference. The Association remains dedicated to supporting its diverse membership through advocacy, professional development, and community engagement. By maintaining a strong presence at events like this conference, ALPA ensures that the voice of professional pilots is heard in discussions about the future of aviation.

This article was originally published in the May 2025 issue of Air Line Pilot.