By: Abigail Wolfgram and Roxanne Feige

The aviation industry faces a host of opportunities and challenges this year and beyond. On September 6, 2023, the WTS-DC chapter and Women in Government Relations (WGR) cohosted a panel with women in the aviation industry that are tackling these opportunities and challenges head on. Melissa Sabatine, Vice President, Aviation Carbon Response and Sustainability lead at Jacobs, moderated a thoughtful conversation with Katie Thomson, Deputy Administration for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); Annie Russo, Chief Political and Congressional Strategy Officer Airport Council International-North America; and Greta Lundeberg, Vice President of International Operations and Policy for Boeing.

Ms. Sabatine helped the audience think creatively about challenges and progress in the aviation industry by asking questions on a variety of topics: FAA reauthorization, climate and sustainable aviation, Advanced Air Mobility, and the industry’s workforce pipeline. Throughout the discussion, the panelists highlighted the importance of collaboration in tackling the industry’s challenges and pushing for innovation and continuous improvement. For example, Deputy Administrator Thompson reflected on how she has seen remarkable growth in the diversity of aviation stakeholders, particularly stakeholders helping the industry improve sustainability. She suggested these new stakeholders are creating “more options for more people that benefit people, business, and the environment.”

Taking the conversation in a personal direction, Ms. Sabatine asked the panelists what we can do to encourage women to join and stick with the transportation industry. Ms. Russo suggested we can support women when we all hold each other and our colleagues accountable to creating an inclusive environment. Deputy Administrator Thomson and Ms. Lundeberg focused on the human side of our profession – encouraging us to mentor and champion others, connect with each other personably, and create an environment where people can bring their whole selves to work. The panelists’ words were an inspiring call to action to close out the event.

WTS-DC thanks the National League of Cities for donating their space for the event and thanks Deputy Administrator Katie Thomson, Annie Russo, Greta Lundeberg, and Melissa Sabatine for generously sharing their time and insights with WTS-DC and WGR.