Dallas, Texas – On Saturday, Dallas Executive Airport became a hub of inspiration for the next generation of aviators as the Women in Aviation – North Texas Chapter hosted the 12th annual Girls in Aviation Day. The free, family‑friendly event drew hundreds of girls, parents and local aviation professionals, all gathered to explore career opportunities in aviation and aerospace.
Local leaders and veterans share their stories
Retired American Airlines captain Dr. Janette McMurtrie, who learned to fly in the 1970s, opened the day with a powerful reminder of how far women have come. “When I learned to fly back in the 70s, we were told we couldn’t do certain things. I’m part of that original group that said, ‘Yes, we can,’” she said, underscoring the event’s mission to empower young women to pursue aviation careers.
Students from Rising Aviation High School in Addison also took the stage. Eleven‑grader Morgan Lockridge explained the school’s unique location on the airport and its two career pathways: maintenance and pilot training. “We are actually located on the airport. Our school is ninth grade through 12th grade and we have two pathways: a maintenance pathway and a pilot pathway,” he said.
Hands‑on activities and aircraft tours
The day featured a variety of interactive stations, from flight‑simulator experiences to aircraft interior tours. Attendees met representatives from local airlines, aerospace firms and maintenance shops, gaining insight into the skills and certifications needed for each role. The event’s organizers emphasized that, according to FAA data, fewer than 10 % of licensed pilots are women, and the percentage is even lower in maintenance fields. This disparity fuels the urgency of the annual gathering.
Impact on the community
McMurtrie highlighted the long‑term impact of the program, noting that many of the girls she taught a decade ago are now first officers with major carriers such as United and American, as well as F‑15 fighter pilots. “It’s amazing to see how we change lives today,” she said.
Local businesses and aviation organizations contributed resources, reinforcing the community’s commitment to nurturing talent that will keep North Texas a leading aviation hub. By exposing girls to real‑world career possibilities early, the event aims to close the gender gap and ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers for the region’s growing aerospace industry.
Looking ahead
Organizers plan to expand the program next year, adding more mentorship opportunities and partnerships with technical colleges. The hope is that continued community support will translate into higher enrollment in aviation‑related training programs, ultimately strengthening the local economy and preserving North Texas’s reputation as a national aviation center.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
