CONNECT, INSPIRE, AND LEAD
Issue 3, July 2025 Table of Contents: Leadership in Flight: Inside IAWA’s Organizational Structure
Lift Off to Leadership Survey
Career Growth
2025 Annual Giving Campaign
Upcoming Events
Event Recaps
Member Highlights
Our Supporters |
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Theresia H. Schatz, A.A.E. Senior Consultant, ADK Consulting & Executive Search IAWA Member IAWA FlightPaths Editor |
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It's full-on summertime here in the northern hemisphere, but activity and happenings are heating up around the globe! Welcome to Issue 3 of FlightPaths, the all encompassing IAWA newsletter, your one-stop shop for all that's happening in our awesome network of aviation/aerospace/airline and airport professional women.
I am pleased to say we are ramping up for our Annual Conference taking place in Sao Paulo Brazil at the end of October! I'm so excited as it will be my first time on South American soil! As a global organization, it is truly special that IAWA members experience the many wonderful locations around the world, and with our focus on transportation, specifically air - we can access so many of these places. So, thank you in advance to our host city and the many hard-working committee members and of course ACG that put all the myriad of logistics together that make these conferences possible, valuable and of course, fun!
Remember to respond to the Lift Off to Leadership survey (link below), focused on exploring the leadership experiences of women in the global aviation and aerospace industry. The deadline to submit is July 31, 2025. We are always looking for interesting content from each of our members or others in our collective networks that can help us achieve our potential, so do not hesitate to submit an idea, an article or fabulous photo that would enlighten and enrich your fellow IAWA members, and your network! Connect, Inspire and Lead! And enjoy that summer in the north!
– Sia
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Leadership in Flight: Inside IAWA’s Organizational Structure
In an industry historically dominated by men, the International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA) stands out as a global beacon for the advancement and inclusion of women across all sectors of the aviation and aerospace industries. With members spanning continents and roles – from executives and engineers to attorneys and government officials, IAWA’s impact is powered by a robust and intentionally structured leadership framework.
At the heart of this structure is a dynamic Board of Directors – comprised of an executive committee and regional and functional leaders who together with our association management agency ensure the organization fulfills its mission to connect, inspire, and lead women in aerospace worldwide.
This post explores the organizational structure of IAWA’s Board of Directors and how its regional presence and functional committees work in harmony to drive the organization’s global impact. In future posts, we’ll also pull back the curtain on how the board is chosen and operates, how budgets, by-laws and standards are approved, and unpack the role of the Advisory Board. |
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We invite you contribute to the second edition of Lift Off to Leadership, a joint initiative between Oliver Wyman and the International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA), focused on exploring the leadership experiences of women in the global aviation and aerospace industry. The deadline to submit is July 31, 2025. We need input, so please SHARE! |
This 2025 edition will be groundbreaking, as it marks the first global study of its kind on female leadership in the aerospace industry. We sincerely thank you for your participation and support in shaping the future of leadership in aerospace. |
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Your career growth is our priority. IAWA provides exclusive resources to empower your professional journey.
Unlock Member-Only Career Resources: -
Exclusive Content: Access quarterly webinars, book reviews, podcasts (like "Connect, Inspire, and Lead"), and past FlightPaths editions in our members-only Career Growth section.
- Skill Development: Invest and reinvest in your career with content designed by IAWA members for IAWA members.
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"Connect, Inspire, and Lead" Podcast: Hear from women across generations and our Advocates on how they excel. Listen now
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IAWA Career Hub: Hiring? Share your company's open positions on our member-exclusive Career Hub and LinkedIn group. Learn more
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LinkedIn: How To Maximize This Platform To Boost Your Career
If you don’t already have a LinkedIn profile - do it! LinkedIn is the premier professional social media website for career professionals. Did you know it is highly utilized by recruiters who source for ideal, high quality candidates.
Recruiters use LinkedIn licenses that allow us to do comprehensive searches and find potential talent and direct them to many exciting career opportunities and engagements! LinkedIn also allows you to grow and connect with your network across many industries. You can join groups, search for articles, and take advantage of terrific LinkedIn educational tools. It also allows you to maintain your resume in real-time allowing others to engage with you and you with others more easily with the most updated information.
Remember to upload a professional photo with an optional Background photo, post uplifting comments and articles and treat your LinkedIn profile as your living document as you would keep your resume updated - just so much easier!
Accessing Member Resources:
Members: If you need access to the members' portal, contact info@iawa.org. |
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2025 Annual Giving Campaign
The 2025 Annual Giving Campaign is now live. If you or your company are interested in becoming an ally with IAWA, read more about this year's campaign and how you can have an impact. |
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IAWA 37th Annual Conference - Save the Date!
IAWA's 37th Annual Conference will take place on October 28-30, 2025, at the JW Marriott in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Book your hotel room now! |
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IAWA Seattle Happy Hour
August 21, 2025 Please join IAWA Members, Advocates, and friends to network and connect with our amazing Seattle-based IAWA community! Attendees are responsible for covering their own food and beverage. |
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IAWA European Leadership Forum 2025 25–26 September, 2025 | Toulouse, France The IAWA European Leadership Forum 2025 will bring together top female leaders, executives, and professionals from across the aviation and aerospace industries to discuss key challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping the future of the sector.
Hosted by Airbus at the Airbus Leadership University in Toulouse—the heart of Europe’s aerospace industry—this two-day forum will provide a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders in a city that is home to major players such as Airbus, ATR, and numerous aerospace research centers.
Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking sessions, we will explore topics such as female leadership in aerospace, Innovation & sustainability, safety & risks and supply chain hurdles. As part of the forum, attendees will also have the exclusive opportunity to visit one of Airbus’ world-class facilities. |
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IAWA Speaker's Bureau Interested in speaking at the IAWA Annual Conference or a future IAWA event?
Share your knowledge and expertise with others by joining the IAWA Speaker's Bureau. For more information, email info@iawa.org. |
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Women’s Breakfast at Wings of Change Americas
25-26 June, 2025
Board Member Cristiane Dart represented IAWA at this special gathering that brings together women leaders and allies across the aviation industry to connect, collaborate and strengthen our network. The energy at each table was electric, with discussions centered around mentorship, inclusion, leadership, and the importance of lifting each other up. These conversations are crucial as we work together to ensure the future of aerospace to be sustainable. |
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IAWA London Connect
June 19, 2025
We had over 50 women attend our IAWA London Connect from across the industry on a lovely sunny morning. Our panel discussion ‘exploring emerging risks and innovation within Cyber and Aviation’ was moderated by Kelly Butler, CEO Marsh Cyber Practice and included panellists Madeline Shanks (Clyde & Co), Tina Collier (Convex) and Bruno Livi (Marsh Sentrisk).
The panel discussed Cyber risks within the Aviation Industry, learnings from Non-Aviation organisations in terms of preparedness and risk mitigation strategies, how organisations can get a better understanding of their supply chain risks using AI as well as presenting risks and engaging with the commercial insurance market for risk transfer.
We’d like to share a big thank you to all of the attendees for their time and engaging questions. |
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IAWA Connect at the Airbus Chalet of the International Paris Air Show
June 18, 2025 IAWA hosted an IAWA CONNECT on Day 3 of the International Paris Air Show at the Airbus Chalet. The event featured an insightful keynote by Carmen-Maja Rex, Chief Human Resources Officer at Airbus, followed by a panel discussion titled: "Empowering Women in Aerospace"
Panelists included:
• Milena Bowman, Executive Manager, EUROCONTROL MUAC
• Robert Chad, Area Manager, IATA
• Marie-Christine Maheas, Head, Forvis Mazars Center for Diversity & Inclusion
The session provided valuable insights into advancing gender equality in the aerospace industry. We extend our gratitude to Sandra Sassone for organizing the event, to Airbus for their generous sponsorship and to all speakers and attendees for their participation. |
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The Morgan Library & Museum Private Tour
May 29, 2025
Thank you to Condon & Forsyth LLP for hosting a most engaging evening for a private docent-led tour at The Morgan Library & Museum! We had a great time discussing all we learned over cocktails following the tour. Thank you again to Condon & Forsyth for your generosity! |
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IAWA Coffee Connect at AFRAA Aviation Stakeholders Convention
May 11, 2025
IAWA hosted a lively Coffee Connect on May 11, 2025, during the #AFRAA Aviation Stakeholders Convention in Kigali. The event brought together women in aviation and aerospace from across Africa and beyond, providing a great opportunity for networking. The enthusiasm to engage and connect was unmistakable. |
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IAWA Women in SAF Community at the Sustainable Aviation Futures Congress
May 8, 2025 What an incredible launch for the IAWA Women in SAF Community at the Sustainable Aviation Futures Congress in Amsterdam on May 8th!
It was truly inspiring to officially kick off this powerful new initiative alongside Natasha Mann, CEO & Co-Founder of Future Energy Global. This community is dedicated to driving forward Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) development through collaboration, advocacy, and leadership.
We had a fantastic time connecting with so many passionate individuals, discussing how we'll deepen member connections, share knowledge, and advocate for women and allies in sustainable aviation. |
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IAWA Middle East Forum
May 5, 2025
IAWA held its first-ever Middle East Forum in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, hosted by Saudia Airlines and IATA - marking a significant milestone for the region. The panel discussions offered powerful insights into the Middle East’s growing role in global aviation and emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of female leaders.
This landmark event brought together trailblazing women leaders who are driving real change and shaping the future of the aviation industry in the region. |
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SMU Law Symposium
April 1–2, 2025 IAWA members and supporters gathered for a networking opportunity at the SMU Law Symposium in Dallas, TX to learn more about what IAWA has to offer. We had a great turnout and we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events! |
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New IAWA Event Suggestion Form Have an idea for an IAWA event but not sure where to start? IAWA has created a new form to submit your idea for an event. Once submitted a contact from IAWA event planning will contact you to discuss.
Click here to submit your idea today!
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The accomplishments of IAWA members are an integral part of who we are. It‘s important our members and future members know who has helped make our organization what it is today. If you would like to be featured in a Member Highlight on our social media channels, please click here to fill out the form.
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New Member Highlights Since June, IAWA has welcomed 19 amazing women as new members of IAWA. Additionally, IAWA also welcomed 1 Scholar member and 2 Apprentice members and to its membership.
Please join us in welcoming our new IAWA Members by visiting the New Member webpage. Learn more about each of our new members! |
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Follow us on social media, including our new Instagram account, @iawa_inspire to keep up on the latest news for our events, annual conference, members, and all things IAWA!
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