In celebration of Women in Aviation Week, the KF Centre for Excellence hosted as inspiring Fireside Chat & Networking Event on March 4, bringing together 80 attendees to honour and empower women in the aviation industry.
The evening began with a warm reception, allowing guests to connect and share their passion for aviation. The highlight of the event was the fireside chat, featuring seven accomplished women from various sectors of the industry:
- Tracy Medve, KF Aerospace President and CEO
- Anne Downie, CPHR, KF Aerospace HR Director
- Leah Marcoux, KF Aerospace Civilian Flight Instructor for Canadian Armed Forces
- Charlotte Favareille, Southern Interior Flight Centre Flight Instructor
- Stacy Tober, KF Aerospace Project Supervisor, Licensed A.M.E.
- Jillian Stuart, KF Aerospace Supply Chain Manager
- Darlene Callaghan, Head of FAcT Engineering
They shared personal journeys, challenges and successes, highlighted available programs for students, and provided career insights to empower the next generation.
Tracy Medve, President & CEO of KF Aerospace, remarked, “This event isn’t just about celebrating women’s achievements – it’s about creating opportunities, sparking inspiration, and showing that aviation is a place for everyone.
Attendees engaged in dynamic Q&A session, exploring topics such as career development, work-life balance, and different pathways available in aviation. The networking session that followed sparked meaningful conversation, with participants sharing personal stories on the impact the panelist of women has made. Here are a few of the testimonials shared:
- One local gentleman expressed gratitude for aviation’s role in delivering medical supplies, enabling his team to restore sight to individuals in need.
- A WestJet flight attendant shared her gratitude to the women for keeping her and her colleagues safe.
- Recent high school graduate came prepared with a list of questions, eager to explore future education and training opportunities.
- A representative from UBCO from the new Aerospace program expressed enthusiasm about potential guest speaker collaborations.
- Three young women inquired about trade opportunities.
- A high school student was eager to learn how to choose the right trade path in aviation.
The discussions underscored the event’s role in inspiring the next generation, fostering connections and mentorship, and highlighting the diverse opportunities with the industry.
The KF Centre for Excellence remains committed to celebrating aviation achievements and inspiring future generations. Through events like this, the Centre aims to break stereotypes and showcase the diverse opportunities within the aviation industry.
For more information on events and initiatives, please visit KF Centre for Excellence Events.
