Inspiring Young Women to “Fly Like a Girl”
To conclude Women’s History Month, JetBlue took some time to recognize our JetBlue crewmembers (both male and female!) who help to inspire young women to pursue a career in aviation.
In March, Women in Flight, an employee resources group at JetBlue, partnered with the JetBlue Foundation and JetBlue’s Diversity & Inclusion team to host “Fly Like a Girl.” Now in its third year, these events bring girls – ages 8 to 12 – to the JFK Hangar to hear first-hand what it’s like to work in aviation. Over 75 young women were in attendance, including daughters, sisters and extended family of our crewmembers – and yes, even a Girl Scout Troop!
“Only 7% of pilots and 3% of aircraft maintenance technicians in the U.S. are women,” shared Rachel McCarthy, SVP Talent & Learning, as she welcomed our young guests. “But guess what? You have the ability to increase those percentages. We hope you let your imagination soar and see the possibilities that are out there waiting for you.”
The girls rotated among three sessions: In the Air (Inflight & Flight Operations), On the Ground (Tech Operations) and In Between (Support Center). Crewmembers offered insight into what they do in their roles. The day included programming aboard our “Mint to Soar” A321 aircraft, with crewmembers Q&A, engine “show and tell” and opportunity to jump into the Captain’s seat!
Thank you to all of the volunteers who spent time with us to help educate and inspire young girls – we couldn’t have done it without you!
