Unveiling the empowerment: Canadian Women in Aviation Conference

June 7, 2024 - Royal Canadian Air Force

Author: MWO Micheline Bertrand

The Canadian Women in Aviation (CWIA) Conference may have flown under your radar until recently, and to be honest, I only heard about the CWIA Conference two years ago when I received an email canvassing for interest to attend. Minimum information was provided; dates and location, but nothing that described the Conference.

When I was approached last year by a work colleague (and friend) to be a volunteer for the CWIA 2024 Conference, I immediately said yes because I wanted to learn more about it. To my surprise, the CWIA Conference was originally founded in 1991…so why did I hear about it only recently? After a few meetings, it became very evident which volunteers had previously attended – they were the most excited. My interest grew but I still didn’t understand the hype surrounding the conference.

So, what is the CWIA Conference? It’s a biennial gathering that has grown into a powerhouse event for women across the aviation industry, emerging as a beacon of empowerment, driven by three pillars: educate, connect, and inspire. It serves as a nexus for aviation professionals to expand their knowledge, forge meaningful connections, and draw inspiration from trailblazers past and present. Moreover, it extends a welcoming hand to the next generation, fostering a passion for aviation among eager students.

How does the CWIA Conference bring these aspirations to life? Through a dynamic array of talks, workshops, and activities, attendees are immersed in a whirlwind of learning and networking opportunities. From captivating keynote speeches to insightful panel discussions, every moment is designed to ignite passion and foster growth. The accompanying tradeshow provides a platform for exploration, enabling attendees to discover new career paths and community initiatives.

For many attendees, me included, the real magic lies in the relatability of the experience...speakers share their personal journeys, a tapestry of shared experience emerges, sharing hardships, laughs and successes, weaving a sense of camaraderie and empowerment that transcends boundaries.

On Day 1, I found myself wondering what my takeaways would be. It's not until a video captures the essence of the conference – a young girl yearning to be part of a collective “I don’t want to be the only one, I want to be one of many” – that the significance truly resonated with me. I became choked up, and in that moment, the transformative power of the CWIA Conference became evident. I realized that the hype wasn't just about attending, it was about being part of a movement that champions inclusivity, empowers voices, and paves the way for a brighter, more equitable future in aviation.

Throughout the conference, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) made its presence known, not only through a strong turnout of attendees but also through the dedication of volunteers who gave their time and expertise to make the event a success. From year-long planning to on-the-ground support, RCAF personnel played a pivotal role in bringing the vision of the CWIA Conference to life. Moreover, the RCAF contributed to the intellectual richness of the conference by providing distinguished guest speakers who shared their insights and experiences with attendees. Among them were Major General Speiser-Blanchet – whose leadership and expertise inspired all who heard her speak, Lieutenant Colonel Baldasaro, Major Cabot, and Major Thorgrimson, each offering a unique perspective that enriched the conference.

Recognizing the monumental milestone of the RCAF’s 100th Anniversary, the CWIA Co-Chairs were determined to pay homage and shine a spotlight on the invaluable partnership between CWIA and the RCAF. The gala was transformed into a tribute to the RCAF's legacy and contributions to aviation. Centennial banners adorned the venue, serving as vivid reminders of a century of excellence and innovation in the skies. The ambiance was further elevated by the enchanting melodies of the 438 Squadron Band, whose performance serenaded guests throughout the evening. At the heart of the gala stood a figure synonymous with leadership and inspiration: Major General Speiser-Blanchet, whose presence as the guest speaker added an extra layer of significance to the occasion.

What sets the CWIA Conference apart is not just its agenda or illustrious speakers, but the profound sense of community and empowerment it cultivates. It's a reminder that in a male-dominated industry, every voice matters, and together, we soar to greater heights. It's an experience leaves an indelible mark on all who attend, like a ripple effect that lasts long after the conference ends. While the CWIA pillars focus specifically on fostering growth and empowerment within the aviation industry, they align closely with the broader objectives of the CAF, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

Partnership between the CWIA organization and the RCAF is mutually beneficial, contributing to the advancement of diversity and excellence within the aviation industry. RCAF members benefit from exposure to industry-leading practices and emerging trends, which they can then apply within their own operational context. Conversely, RCAF personnel bring unique perspectives and expertise to the table, enriching discussions and contributing to the collective knowledge base of the aviation community.