College to host Global Conference on Diversity in Aviation and Aerospace

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Global Conference on Diversity in Aviation, Aerospace and STEM flyer

Now in its fourth year, The Ohio State University’s Global Conference on Aviation, Aerospace and STEM is focused on inequities and how to address them through education, collaboration and innovation. The event will be held October 26 and 27 at the Blackwell Inn and Pfahl Conference Center.

In the United States, a little over 4% of women hold an airline transport certificate, which is required to fly for a commercial airline. And according to Sisters of the Skies, currently there are less than 150 professional Black women pilots in the U.S. that hold airline transport pilot, commercial, military or certificated flight instructor certificates. This is despite the work of organizations like Women in Aviation International, the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, and the National Gay Pilots Association, among others. These organizations are dedicated to the mentorship and support of minoritized professionals in the aviation and aerospace industries, and yet the numbers remain stagnant.

This highly regarded gathering provides an opportunity for students, professionals and leaders in the aviation industry to share best practices around issues of diversity, inclusion and equity. The longest running event of its kind, the Global Conference on Diversity in Aviation, Aerospace and STEM typically attracts more than 100 educators, industry professionals and students, who participate and learn from a variety of professionals on a range of topics in diversity, equity and inclusion. The 2021 event promises an interesting array of breakout sessions and keynote addresses. View full agenda.

“This year’s conference theme is ‘Transforming Education, Industry and the Student Experience.’ Aviation, aerospace and STEM more broadly, remain fields that struggle to attract and retain minoritized individuals,” said Center for Aviation Studies Assistant Director Shannon Morrison, the event’s lead organizer. “We started this conference because I saw the need to bring together a variety of voices on how to create a more inclusive and equitable aviation industry.” She added that the conference’s longevity underscores a desire amongst industry and educators to continue to have this important conversation.

The conference is sponsored by United Airlines, The Ohio State University College of Engineering and The Ohio State University Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

Tag: aviation