Jessica Stettler, the Manager of Digital Engagement & Partnerships for Envoy’s Communications team, recounts her attendance at the 2025 Women in Aviation Conference.
Last month, Women in Aviation International (WAI) once again hosted an inspiring and impactful gathering at the 36th Annual WAI Conference, held at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. Envoy was proud to be a Presenting Gold Sponsor of this year’s event that brought together nearly 5,000 attendees, including 168 international representatives from 34 countries, creating an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the progress of women in aviation and aerospace.
A Resolute Call for Unity and Action
During her keynote address, WAI CEO Lynda Coffman set the tone for the conference, emphasizing resilience, unity, and the ongoing commitment to breaking barriers. Acknowledging the challenges women continue to face in the industry, she encouraged attendees to remain steadfast in the WAI vision—creating a world where aviation and aerospace opportunities are accessible to all.
A Platform for Change
The conference welcomed an extraordinary lineup of speakers, each of whom brought unique perspectives and inspiring stories, including keynote speaker (and WAI cover girl!) Emily Calandrelli, the 100th woman in space, who shared her journey from STEM advocate to astronaut.
Other speakers included Michelle “MACE” Curran, former lead solo pilot for the USAF Thunderbirds, Natalee Johnston, the Royal Australian Navy’s first female pilot, Amy Purdy, a Paralympic medalist and best-selling author, and Bonny Simi, president of operations at Joby Aviation. Their insights, alongside educational sessions and networking events provided attendees with motivation and actionable direction.
A Showcase of Industry Support
The exhibit hall was a bustling hub of activity, featuring over 170 organizations from all corners of the aviation industry, including Envoy’s recruitment team and representatives from our internal employee business resource groups, The Women of Envoy (WE) and the Culture, Respect & Engagement @ Work (CREW). From major airlines to flight schools and aerospace companies, exhibitors offered valuable career resources, mentorship opportunities, and innovative technology demonstrations.
On the final day, the conference concluded with a Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) event, where over 250 young girls, ages 8-18, explored aviation careers through interactive stations and inspiring mentorship. Jessica Cox, the world’s first armless pilot, was among the role models encouraging the next generation of aviators. These experiences are critical in expanding the talent pipeline and ensuring the future of women in aviation remains bright.
Innovative Connections and Looking Ahead
New to this year’s conference was Braindate, a technology platform designed to facilitate meaningful networking in a dedicated lounge, provided by WAI. The Braindate app allowed attendees to schedule one-on-one or small group conversations on topics of their choosing. Over the course of the conference, 46 “braindates” were scheduled, facilitating almost 600 connections! In an industry where connections are invaluable, this innovation provided attendees with direct access to mentors, potential employers, and like-minded professionals.
As I reflect on WAI2025, one message rings louder than ever: unity is our strength. Standing together as a community is not just about our careers today—it’s about ensuring a more inclusive, equitable future for the female aviators of tomorrow. While challenges remain, the passion, resilience, and determination displayed at this conference reaffirm that the sky remains open to all who dare to dream, work hard, and push forward.
Here’s to another year of breaking barriers and uplifting women in aviation! I am already looking forward to next year’s conference, which will be hosted locally in Grapevine, TX.