The International Day of Women and Girls in STEM is celebrated on February 11 each year. The day recognizes women’s contributions to STEM fields and encourages girls to pursue STEM careers. To celebrate, we interviewed Envoy Aircraft Mechanic Danielle Mitchell who has recently risen to the role of Crew Chief, shattering barriers in an industry where representation matters more than ever.
Danielle’s journey is one of resilience, determination and impact where she has paved the way for others to dream big. With her passion for excellence and commitment to breaking stereotypes, she not only excels in her field but also serves as a powerful voice for diversity and inclusion in aviation.
What inspired you to pursue a career as an aircraft mechanic, and how did your journey lead you to becoming a Crew Chief?
“In high school, I discovered my passion for aviation and aimed to fly airplanes, but the costs of obtaining a private license were high. My family, particularly my brother who became an aircraft mechanic, encouraged me to pursue a career in mechanics.
Although I faced challenges initially, I persevered and became curious about aviation operations. I sought to understand task completion times and aspired to improve my skills, exploring roles like Crew Chief, Manager and Maintenance Control that are crucial in our daily operations.”
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?
“My greatest challenge has been affirming my sense of belonging. I’ve often encountered the belief that women should not be aircraft mechanics due to supposed limitations in knowledge and strength.
As a Black woman, I strive to read more, listen attentively and contribute meaningfully to be recognized in this field. I consistently push myself to excel in all my endeavors. I will persist in staying humble, volunteering for aviation camps and paving the way for future women in aviation.”
Can you describe the responsibilities of a Crew Chief and how your previous experiences prepared you for this role?
“As a Crew Chief, my responsibilities include collaborating with other Crew Chiefs on work placements, ensuring job completion time, maintaining a safe work environment and ensuring compliance with operational and safety procedures. I also ensure that all paperwork is completed correctly.
I strive to keep everything running smoothly by anticipating potential issues and staying two steps ahead. My previous experiences, particularly dealing with rejection, encouraged me to think creatively and strive for excellence.”
What does it mean to you to be a Black woman in a leadership position in an industry where diversity is still growing?
“Being a Black woman in a leadership role resembles the responsibilities of motherhood. It’s a journey without a manual, a role that never truly ends.
The only guidance comes from life experiences and the wisdom shared by other remarkable women. I remind myself that greatness isn’t found in a single individual; rather, a true leader will always rise to the occasion.”
Did you have any mentors who guided you along the way?
“Yes, I did. They have influenced me through their unwavering support, their prayers, and their encouragement as I navigate my emotional journey.
Additionally, they serve as my most honest critics, providing constructive feedback that fosters my growth.”
What message would you share with young women of color who are considering a career in aviation or other male-dominated industries?
“Look beyond gender and race, allowing success to be your primary motivation. Commit to reading, studying and maintaining a positive attitude, even in challenging times.
Surround yourself with uplifting individuals and remember that giving up is not an option.”
How do you foster collaboration and trust within your team?
“To foster a positive environment, I believe in leading by example, promoting trust and encouraging strong working relationships. I always remind the mechanics that if they’re uncertain about anything, they should speak up.”
What goals do you have for yourself moving forward in your career?
“My objective is to engage in more reading and listening while maintaining a humble demeanor. I intend to meet with supervisors and management to discuss my future in greater detail.”
What legacy do you hope to leave in the aviation industry, and how do you want to inspire the next generation?
“Feeling inadequate is not a choice. I urge you to identify your weaknesses and transform those shortcomings into strengths.
Stay motivated and extract lessons from every experience. Keep in mind that greatness is essential for success and remember that anything is achievable.”