The aviation industry is on the cusp of a transformative era, and women’s involvement is pivotal to its sustainable growth and innovation. Despite strides in representation, women still make up only a small percentage of aviation professionals. Addressing this imbalance is not just a matter of equity; it is an economic and operational necessity in an industry facing unprecedented workforce shortages.
The Current Gender Gap in Aviation
Women are critically underrepresented in aviation globally and within Canada. As of 2023, only 4-6% of all licensed pilots worldwide were women, a figure that underscores the stark gender disparity in the field (CAPA). In Canada, progress is evident but slow. Recent data from Institute for Women Of Aviation Worldwide (iWOAW) shows women accounted for:
- 13% of recreational pilot licenses
- 12.3% of commercial licenses
- 8.1% of airline transport licenses
The numbers are similarly low in other critical aviation roles: women make up only 2% of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) in Canada (Transport Canada) and approximately 3% of airline executives globally (EAA).
This underrepresentation means that the industry is missing out on the diverse perspectives, leadership styles, and skills that women bring to the table. Diversity has been shown to enhance decision-making and innovation—both essential in a field driven by safety, efficiency, and technological advancements.
A Looming Workforce Crisis
The gender gap in aviation becomes even more urgent when viewed against the backdrop of significant workforce shortages. The aviation industry in Canada and globally is experiencing a critical demand for skilled professionals. Key figures include:
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- Pilot Shortages: A 2023 forecast by Boeing estimates that North America will need over 128,000 new pilots by 2042 to meet growing demand.
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineers: Transport Canada has warned of a shortfall of AMEs, with an estimated 50% of the current workforce expected to retire by 2035 (Edmonton Journal).
- Air Traffic Controllers: NAV CANADA has been experiencing shortages for Air Traffic Controllers (CBC).
By failing to tap into the potential of half the population, the industry is perpetuating a labor shortfall that threatens its growth and sustainability.
Why Women Are the Solution
Addressing these shortages requires a comprehensive strategy that includes increasing the participation of women in aviation. Here’s why:
- Expanding the Talent Pool: Women’s inclusion significantly broadens the recruitment base for critical roles such as pilots, engineers, and air traffic controllers.
- Enhancing Team Performance: Research shows that diverse teams are more innovative and better at solving complex problems—qualities essential in aviation. (Forbes)
- Future-Proofing the Industry: Engaging women and underrepresented groups ensures a more resilient workforce that reflects the diverse communities the aviation sector serves.
Barriers to Women in Aviation
Despite the clear benefits, several barriers hinder women’s entry and retention in the aviation industry, including:
- Cost: The high cost of education, training, and certification required for many aviation careers can be a significant financial barrier for many individuals seeking to enter the industry.
- Lack of Role Models: With so few women in leadership or visible positions, aspiring aviators often lack mentors to guide their careers.
- Gender Stereotypes: Persistent stereotypes about women’s abilities in technical or leadership roles discourage participation.
- Work-Life Balance Challenges: The demanding schedules of aviation careers can be particularly challenging for women, who often bear disproportionate caregiving responsibilities.
The Role of Elevate Aviation Learning Centre
Based in Edmonton, Elevate Aviation Learning Centre (EALC) is at the forefront of efforts to close the gender gap in Canadian aviation. Through training programs for women and underrepresented groups, EALC equips individuals with the skills and confidence needed to pursue aviation careers.
Some of EALC’s programs include:
- Aviation Career Exploration (ACE): ACE is a week-long, site-based program for students ages 11–18 that fosters active engagement through immersive activities, presentations and hands-on exploration in a journey of learning about careers in the aviation industry.
- Foundational Aviation Skills Training (FAST) Program: FAST is an innovative 4-week, fully-funded program providing workplace essential skills and specialized training in your preferred focus stream; Ramp Service Agent, Customer Service Agent, Drone (RPAS) Advanced Operations, Private Pilot Ground School, Flight Attendant.
- Women’s Employment Skills Training (WEST) Program: WEST is a 9-week, fully funded program that will build your skills, grow your confidence, and prepare you to work in today’s evolving aviation industry.
- Aircraft Service Technician (AST) Program: Offered in partnership with Canadian Council for Aviation and Aerospace (CCAA), the 9-week, fully-funded AST program provides participants with insights into various maintenance roles within the industry and allows them to develop foundational knowledge for a new or changing career path within aviation or aerospace.
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- Junior Jets: The Junior Jets program transforms classroom experiences by integrating the thrilling world of aviation seamlessly into the K-6 curriculum.
- Mentorship: Elevate Aviation’s mentorship program connects women and underrepresented groups with industry leaders to inspire and guide their journey.
By addressing the barriers women face and providing no-cost access to training and mentorship, Elevate Aviation Learning Centre is helping to build a more inclusive and resilient aviation industry.
Conclusion
Women are essential to the future of aviation—not just to address workforce shortages but to drive innovation and foster a more inclusive industry culture. Organizations like Elevate Aviation Learning Centre are leading the charge, removing barriers and increasing awareness so that more women and underrepresented groups excel in aviation roles. As the industry navigates a period of transformation, embracing gender diversity is no longer optional; it is imperative.
The future of aviation is diverse, inclusive, and, with the contributions of women, it will soar to new heights.
