Wheels up for women in aviation

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack has welcomed the announcement that 10 domestic flights will take-off under the control of all-female flights crews to mark International Women’s Day today.

Mr McCormack said the Australian Government’s Women in the Aviation Industry Initiative – a landmark four-year, $4 million investment announced last year – was encouraging hundreds of female students to take up careers in the dynamic aviation industry.

“On International Women’s Day and in Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, celebrating the achievements of women pursuing careers in aviation is important,” Mr McCormack said.

“It’s great to see industry and Airservices Australia build awareness of the critical roles played by women in aviation and communicating the fantastic opportunities available to them.

“Pilots, engineers and air traffic controllers are all examples of exciting careers for women now and into the future.”

The Women in Aviation Initiative enhances the work of groups already active in promoting aviation careers by funding new events and resources.

Western Sydney Women has successfully launched a mentoring program, where 20 students will be mentored in aviation career opportunities.

To engage directly with students looking at career options, the Women in Aviation Initiative will have a presence this year at the VCE and Careers Expo in Melbourne, the HSC and Careers Expo in Sydney and the Western Sydney Careers Expo.

This will be followed by a national roadshow of aviation-specific careers events promoting careers for women across the nation.

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