This summer, PIA President Suzanne Markle led an online discussion that allowed a small group of graduates the opportunity to share their stories, discuss challenges, and offer advice to others who are interested in joining the aviation industry.

Marissa Estebanez (PIA Myrtle Beach 2021), Elizabeth Householder (PIA Youngstown 2021), Melissa Markell (PIA Youngstown 2011), Kate Metzger (PIA Myrtle Beach 2021), and Miranda Wales (PIA Hagerstown 2021) shared their inspiration for entering the aviation maintenance industry and their standout professional moments so far.

Watch the full video discussion below.

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00:00 – Introductions

04:47 – What have your personal experiences been when earning a technical school education in a world dominated with the expectation of getting a four-year academic degree?

14:00 – Why Aviation, what inspired you?

19:05 – What was your experience as a female pursuing a career path in the historically male field of aviation?

24:39 – What has been a highlight of your career so far?

27:33 – Have there been any major challenges for you?

38:22 – What advice would you give to women considering aviation?

41:02 – Closing