The frontier of space exploration and aviation is undergoing a transformation. Historically, the aerospace industry has been a male-dominated field, but change is now underway. More women are entering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers, particularly in aerospace. However, gender imbalance remains a significant issue, with women still making up a small percentage of the industry. According to Forbes, women represent only 28% of the STEM workforce in the U.S., and aerospace remains one of the least diverse sectors.
Despite these challenges, progress is being made. The industry is increasingly recognising the value of women’s contributions and taking steps to create an inclusive environment. However, obstacles remain. Women in aerospace often face slower career advancement, limited opportunities in leadership roles, and workplace biases that hinder their progress.
Aviation, this young modern giant, exemplifies the possible relationships of women with the creations of science.
– Amelia Earhart
Gender imbalance: A barrier to career progression
A recent survey revealed disparities in career progression within aerospace. One-third of women reported that it took them longer to reach leadership positions compared to their male peers, while more than 90% of men progressed at the same rate or faster. These challenges can be traced to unconscious biases, restricted career advancement opportunities, and the struggle to balance work and personal life.
Outdated stereotypes continue to influence perceptions of women’s roles in aviation. Many still believe that men are naturally more suited for technical or leadership positions, while women are often relegated to supporting roles. This bias extends beyond piloting to various critical functions in aviation. To address this, it is essential to not only provide equal opportunities but also promote female role models who can inspire the next generation of women in aerospace.
One of the most inspiring examples of female empowerment in aviation is Captain Yasmeen Al Maimani, Saudi Arabia’s first female commercial pilot. She turned her childhood dream into reality, earning her pilot’s licence in the United States in 2013. However, despite her qualifications, she faced a long struggle for employment. After six years of persistence, in 2019, she became the first Saudi female commercial pilot to fly within the Kingdom, securing a position with Nesma Airlines. Her success symbolises the changing landscape of aviation and serves as an inspiration for aspiring female pilots.
The importance of mentorship and support
Retaining female talent in aerospace requires strong mentorship and support networks. Small actions—such as offering guidance, career advice, or simply inviting a junior colleague to lunch—can make a significant impact. These gestures accumulate over time, helping women build confidence and establish long-term careers.
The Ninety-Nines, an international organisation of women pilots, has been at the forefront of supporting female aviators. Established in 1929 by 99 pioneering women pilots, the organisation continues to promote the advancement of aviation through education, scholarships, and mutual support. Their mission is to inspire and empower women in all areas of aviation, ensuring they receive the opportunities and encouragement needed to thrive.
Tackling unconscious bias in Aerospace
One of the primary steps in addressing gender inequality in aerospace is tackling unconscious bias. Many organisations are now working to create awareness of biases that may have discouraged women from pursuing careers in the field. Diversity training programmes help educate employers on inclusive hiring practices and workplace policies that promote gender equality.
In addition to diversity training, mentorship initiatives connect aspiring female astronauts, engineers, and pilots with experienced professionals. These efforts help women navigate the complexities of a male-dominated industry and provide them with the necessary support to succeed.
Encouraging STEM education from an early age is also vital. Schools, space agencies, and private companies are collaborating to create programmes that inspire young girls to explore aerospace. Interactive workshops, space-focused summer camps, and outreach initiatives offer opportunities for girls to discover the vast career options available in the industry.
Championing women in leadership
Promoting women to leadership positions is essential for achieving gender equality in aerospace. More companies are committed to advancing talented women to senior roles, ensuring they have a voice in shaping the industry’s future. Elevating women in leadership not only breaks down barriers but also inspires others to pursue executive positions.
However, leadership opportunities alone are not enough. Addressing work-life balance is equally important. Companies are increasingly recognising the challenges faced by employees with families and are introducing flexible work arrangements, childcare support, and comprehensive leave policies. These measures create an environment where both men and women can thrive without sacrificing their personal lives.
Women taking flight: Blue Origin’s NS-31 mission
A recent milestone in the aerospace industry highlights the growing role of women in space travel. Blue Origin has announced the crew for its NS-31 mission which was launched in April. The six-member team includes Aisha Bowe, Amanda Nguyen, Gayle King, Katy Perry, Kerianne Flynn, and Lauren Sánchez. Lauren Sánchez, a key figure in the mission, has expressed her excitement about leading a team of explorers who will challenge perspectives of Earth and inspire future generations.
This mission is a significant step in showcasing the increasing presence of women in space exploration. The involvement of high-profile women in such missions sends a powerful message, encouraging young girls to consider careers in aerospace.
Frenchwoman Elise Deroche, also known as Baroness Raymonde de Laroche, became the first woman in the world to earn a pilot’s license, receiving license number 36 from the Aeroclub de France. Elise Deroche was born in Paris in 1882 and had a background as an actress, painter, and sculptor, as well as being an automobile racer. She became fascinated by aviation after meeting Charles Voisin, a famous French aircraft builder, and learning to fly.
Diverse roles in aerospace and aviation
Aerospace is a diverse industry offering numerous career paths beyond piloting. Some of the key roles include:
- Aircraft Mechanic and Maintenance Technician: Responsible for ensuring aircraft safety and functionality through repairs and regular maintenance.
- Avionics Technician: Specialises in maintaining and repairing electronic systems crucial for navigation and communication.
- Aerospace Engineer: Designs and tests aircraft, spacecraft, and aerospace systems to meet safety and performance standards.
- Air Traffic Controller: Manages the safe movement of aircraft, providing critical instructions for take-offs, landings, and in-flight adjustments.
- Flight Attendant: Ensures passenger safety and comfort while delivering in-flight services.
- Airport Operations Manager: Oversees daily airport operations, ensuring efficiency and smooth passenger experiences.
By promoting diversity across all these areas, the industry can benefit from a broader range of perspectives, leading to improved innovation, efficiency, and safety.
The future of aerospace for women
While significant strides have been made, achieving true gender parity in aerospace requires ongoing efforts. Mentorship and sponsorship programs remain crucial for advancing women’s careers, as they provide networking opportunities and dismantle barriers to leadership roles. Raising awareness about the diverse range of roles available in aerospace is also vital. By showcasing success stories and highlighting opportunities beyond traditional stereotypes, the industry can attract more women to STEM careers. Celebrating the achievements of female pioneers in aviation will help inspire future generations.
Ultimately, empowering women in aerospace is not just about achieving equality—it is about driving innovation. The aerospace industry can only reach its full potential when women are given the same opportunities, recognition, and support as their male counterparts. This inclusive approach not only encourages a more vibrant and dynamic work environment but also ensures that the industry benefits from a broader range of talents and insights, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.
While significant strides have been made, achieving true gender parity in aerospace requires ongoing efforts. Mentorship and sponsorship programs remain crucial for advancing women’s careers, providing networking opportunities and dismantling barriers to leadership roles. Raising awareness about the diverse range of roles available in aerospace is vital. By showcasing success stories and highlighting opportunities beyond traditional stereotypes, the industry can attract more women to STEM careers. Celebrating female pioneers inspires future generations. Empowering women in aerospace isn’t just about equality—it drives innovation. A diverse workforce fosters fresh ideas, pushing space exploration forward. With inclusivity, the future of aerospace is limitless, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and exploration.
