It started as a group of about five or six sipping coffee and croissants. But on Wednesday, the Women in Corporate Aviation networking breakfast had the room at the Starling Hotel (next door to the exhibition center) bulging at its seams. With seating available for about 30 guests, the hotel staff had to send out for more chairs. Sponsored by in flight caterer Air Culinaire (which provided the food), the event accomplished its stated mission of bringing together women who work in the corporate aviation field.
A round-the-room introduction session revealed women who are flight instructors or veteran corporate pilots; some who operate their own FBOs, catering firms or other businesses; others who serve as executives with aviation companies; and some who were there to advance their careers–either starting out, or at a crossroad. For those seeking advice, the rest of the women were quick to jump in and offer direction. Some of the women told stories of how their careers had advanced as a direct result of a contact made through WCA.
Some told stories of frustration and anger, leaving no doubt the glass ceiling is still alive and well in certain segments of business aviation. But even those discouraging words were taken as a challenge to renew efforts to help women in need of support, and encourage younger women to take up the battle. There were regular reminders that the benefits of membership in WCA truly are a two-way street.
By the time the session began to break up, new connections had been made, old friendships renewed and reinforced and everyone in the room felt an injection of enthusiasm and encouragement for the future.
