The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) recently applauded Congress for the introduction of federal legislation that would help more women pursue aviation careers or further the careers of those already in the industry.
The first bill, the Promoting Women in the Aviation Workforce Act of 2017, urges the industry to establish a women in aviation board and to establish mentorship programs; pilot training; and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
The second bill, the Women in Aerospace Act, directs agencies like NASA and the National Science Foundation to design fellowship and grant opportunities for women. The bill also encourages the agencies to prioritize the promotion and recruitment of qualified women.
“We applaud these members of Congress for introducing this legislation,” GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said. “When it comes to the aviation sector, women are, to our industry’s detriment, very underrepresented. They are a critical resource from which we need to tap to recapitalize our aging workforce. We encourage all members of Congress, especially those in the Senate and House general aviation caucuses, to support this legislation and ensure its passage.”
GAMA also applauded its members who encourage women to learn about aerospace.
GAMA will participate in Girls in Aviation Day at the annual Women in Aviation International conference.