More than 1,300 industry professionals, students and aviation enthusiasts gathered in Oklahoma City as the state’s aerospace sector highlighted workforce development, investment and long-term growth at a flagship industry event.
The ninth annual Oklahoma Women in Aviation and Aerospace Day (OKWIAAD) sold out for the first time, underscoring rising interest in aviation careers and the increasing representation of women across the industry. The event was hosted by aviation services provider AAR Corporation in partnership with JE Dunn Construction and the Oklahoma City Airport Trust, and facilitated by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and the Oklahoma Aerospace Foundation.
Industry Investment and Infrastructure on Display
The event took place inside AAR’s newly constructed 70,000 sq ft Hangar 4 at Will Rogers International Airport, providing attendees with a first look at the maintenance facility, which is expected to become operational in early 2026. Organisers said the venue reflected both the scale of recent investment and the sector’s future growth ambitions.
Oklahoma’s aerospace and defence industry contributes an estimated $44bn to the state economy and supports more than 120,000 jobs, making it the second-largest industry by economic impact. However, industry leaders warned that continued expansion would depend on attracting and retaining skilled workers.
Grayson Ardies, executive director of the ODAA, highlighted the importance of building a strong talent pipeline, particularly among women.
“Oklahoma’s $44 billion aerospace sector is booming, but our continued growth trends depend on a strong talent pipeline,” said Ardies. “We have high-demand, high-wage jobs waiting to be filled right now. Events like these are crucial for connecting thousands of talented women with these critical career pathways, directly addressing the workforce needs that will keep our state’s economy on an upward trajectory and make this our number one economic driver.”
Strategic Partnerships and Workforce Development
A recurring theme throughout the event was the role of strategic partnerships in supporting long-term industry success. Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell and State Senator Paul Rosino emphasised the importance of cultivating opportunities for the aviation industry’s future workforce and expanding participation among women.
Keynote speaker Amelia Rose Earhart, an international aviation leader who recreated the global flight of her namesake, encouraged attendees to take leadership roles within their organisations. Her address focused on “being a tailwind” for others, urging individuals to support progress and resilience despite inevitable challenges.
Engaging the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals
Education and early engagement featured prominently in the programme. Retired US Air Force Colonel Dawn MK Zoldi, founder and chief executive of P3 Tech Consulting, served as celebrity emcee and addressed more than 500 high school students as part of a student experience delivered in partnership with Rose State College.
Local microjet pilot Justin Lewis also spoke to students, reinforcing the importance of remaining open to new opportunities and adapting to industry change.
Honouring Aviation Legacy and Leadership
In line with the theme “Celebrating the Grit and Grace of the Golden Age of Aviation”, the ODAA named Amelia Earhart as its 2025 Woman of the Year. Earhart was a pioneering aviator and women’s rights advocate who broke multiple aviation records, including becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. The award was accepted on behalf of the Ninety-Nines, the international organisation she once led, by its current president, Robin Hadfield.
The event also honoured the legacy of Chickasaw aviator Eula “Pearl” Carter Scott. The 2025 Pearl of the Year awards were presented to Kristy Slater, general aviation manager at Wiley Post Airport, and Alexis Higgins, chief executive of Tulsa International Airport, recognising their contributions to the creation and growth of OKWIAAD.
Recognising Outstanding Contributions to the Sector
The event concluded with further awards recognising leadership and service across Oklahoma’s aerospace community. Honourees included Brandi Rector for general aviation, Leshia Pearson for aerospace industry service, and Izzy Kearney for military aviation.
Organisers said the record attendance demonstrated strong momentum within Oklahoma’s aerospace sector, with collaboration between government, industry and education seen as essential to sustaining economic growth and workforce development.
