Opinion: Industry Transformation Needed To Empower Women In MRO

Aviation has put me on an unbelievable and indescribable path—one I never imagined while growing up as the only girl in my family. From a very early age, I was determined to out-perform the guys and show that gender does not define capability. That drive led me to aviation, a male-dominated field where I now thrive. I am proud to work in an industry where men and women collaborate on a shared goal: to ensure aircraft remain safe and flight ready.

Along the way, I have been mentored by incredible women and found fulfillment in mentoring others. Watching my mentees grow, take pride in their work and gain confidence to pursue their dreams in a field they might never have considered has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career.

In honor of Women’s History Month, it is a great time to reflect on women’s contributions to underrepresented fields like aviation maintenance. With women making up just 2-3% of the workforce, it is crucial to celebrate their achievements and efforts to create opportunities for future generations.

As an instructor at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM), I am proud to contribute to our commitment to increase female representation in aviation maintenance. With the global demand for skilled technicians growing—Boeing estimates 716,000 new maintenance technicians needed over the next 20 years—it is essential to build our workforce. To support greater female participation and success, I have identified key steps critical to empowering women to pursue and thrive in aviation maintenance careers.

CAREER AWARENESS AND ROLE MODELS

A major barrier to women entering aviation maintenance is a lack of awareness and exposure to the profession. Many women are unaware of the opportunities or hold misconceptions about the work. The industry has long been male-dominated, and while this is slowly changing, the gender gap remains wide.

To close the awareness gap, there is an opportunity to engage more young women in high school and educate them on a highly impactful and rewarding career in aviation. People are often surprised when I share that AIM graduates start their careers earning between $75,000-$80,000 per year, with potential earnings of $150,000-$200,000 within 5-6 yr. based on union pay scales (Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association).

We also need to tout those who have come before us and inspire other women to join in, from Alice L. Marston, the first female aircraft dispatcher in the U.S., to Phoebe Omlie, the first female to get an airplane mechanics license, to name a few.

INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT

Trade schools are vital to increasing female participation in aviation maintenance by offering high-quality education and hands-on training in an inclusive environment. Many institutions are working to attract and support women in this traditionally male-dominated field, including AIM, where women currently comprise 9% of our student body.

Partnerships with industry leaders also help raise visibility and create opportunities for women. For example, AIM hosts an open house for interested students where we invite our partners—airlines like United Airlines and American Airlines—to come and talk to students directly, allowing students and professionals to build connections.

MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Female students bring diverse perspectives that enhance classroom discussions and the broader industry. Their passion and drive for excellence prove that women can succeed in aviation maintenance. Female alumni who have broken barriers inspire current students. Their achievements show that success in aviation maintenance is not only possible but attainable. These women are not just technicians but leaders, mentors and advocates, shaping the future of the industry.

To create meaningful change, airlines and aviation companies should actively encourage women to pursue and stay in maintenance roles by promoting women in leadership, showcasing female role models and developing support programs.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I urge the industry to continue investing in women’s future in aviation maintenance. Together, we can break barriers, expand opportunities and create a more inclusive workforce.

Now is the time to act. Whether you are a woman considering a career in aviation maintenance, an industry leader or a mentor, your involvement is crucial. Let us inspire and cultivate the next generation of women who will shape aviation’s future. The sky is the limit.

Tiffini Coleman is an Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) instructor at the Chicago campus and an AIM Alumni.