Opinion: MRO Leadership Should Champion Women Technicians

There is a certain romanticism associated with aviation: visions of sleek jets soaring through the clouds, the thrill of takeoff, the satisfaction of a job well done and releasing an aircraft from maintenance. However, the reality on the hangar floor often tells a different story, one where the starry-eyed fantasy is brought crashing down by a stark gender imbalance.

According to official statistics, a meager 2.7% of certificated aviation maintenance technicians are women, but this number paints an incomplete picture. The culprit? The FAA’s Active Civil Airmen statistics, which track only the total number of FAA-issued certificates. These certificates remain active unless surrendered, suspended or revoked, meaning women who have left the industry for any reason are still counted. This skews the data significantly. Further muddying the waters is the presence of noncertificated technicians of any gender working in general aviation and MRO environments. Their contributions are not  counted. So how many women truly work in aviation maintenance? The answer, frustratingly, remains shrouded in obscurity.

The aviation maintenance industry faces a critical shortage of skilled personnel. The solution is not just attracting more women; it is fostering an environment in which they can thrive.

Uniforms are an all-too-common point of failure. “Unisex” is a term made up so women can wear male attire. This is not just about aesthetics; it is a genuine safety concern. Women deserve uniforms and personal protective equipment that are not only functional but also designed to look professional and fit their bodies properly. In an aircraft full of confined spaces, a baggy shirt or poorly designed vest, for example, can snag on a protruding screw or wire, putting the technician at risk.

Leaders within industry undoubtedly have made strides toward inclusivity through policy changes. However, genuine progress hinges on the day-to-day actions of front-line personnel—supervisors, leads and crew chiefs. They set the tone for the hangar floor, and their commitment to inclusivity forms the bedrock of a welcoming environment.

A casual glance at a hangar’s bathroom door can be telling. Does it lock? Do female technicians have keys? Yes, this really happens, and these details matter. Imagine the indignity of being forced to wait for a male coworker who is using the women’s restroom. Are there women’s locker rooms? Picture the discomfort of a technician, covered in fuel or Skydrol, not having a dedicated place to get clean and change. These seemingly trivial incidents erode a sense of professionalism and belonging.

But creating an inclusive environment goes beyond bathroom etiquette. Leaders need to foster a culture of respect. Casual sexist remarks, unwelcome advances or simply being ignored have no place on the hangar floor. Women technicians deserve to be viewed not as anomalies but as valuable members of the team, bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the table.

One may argue that the demands of the job leave little room for sensitivity. It is a tough environment, and the focus should be solely on competence. A supportive leader understands that a motivated and comfortable workforce is ultimately a more competent one. A technician who feels respected and supported is more likely to stay in the field, contribute meaningfully and perhaps even inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

It all boils down to setting the right tone. A leader who takes the time to mentor female technicians, address concerns promptly and fairly and recognize and celebrate their achievements creates an environment where women can excel. This does not mean preferential treatment; it means fostering a level playing field, ensuring women have the tools and support they need to succeed.

Ultimately, the view from the hangar floor needs to be one of inclusivity, professionalism and, most important, mutual respect. This can be achieved only through concerted efforts on all fronts—from leaders creating clear policies to front-line personnel who embody those policies in their everyday interactions. It is time the aviation industry embraces its female technicians, not just as a welcome addition to address workforce shortages but as essential contributors to maintaining the aircraft on which we all depend.

Stacey Rudser is president of the Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance and a certificated airframe and powerplant technician.