Building the Future of Aviation
October 3, 2025
On September 20, we hosted our fifth annual Girls in Aviation Day. More than 500 people joined us to explore aviation through nearly 30 exhibitors offering hands-on activities, flight and drone simulators, fire and rescue equipment, and so much more.
Aviation is facing a shortage of talent in critical roles like pilots, mechanics and air traffic controllers. Events like this are our way of sparking curiosity and showing young people just how many exciting paths exist in aviation.
This year’s lineup of exhibitors was incredible. From Envoy Air (American Airlines’ biggest regional operator), Unifi (ground handling service provider to United Airlines and Delta Air Lines), and fixed-based operator and event co-host Elliott Aviation, to the Air Force Academy, the Department of Homeland Security, Quad Cities Aero, the National Weather Service, and even engineering and aerospace companies like Crawford, Murphy & Tilly and Eaton, our guests had the chance to meet professionals from every corner of the industry.
There were plenty of “wow” moments, too. The Illinois Army National Guard brought both a Chinook and Black Hawk helicopter flown in with a predominantly female crew. EAA Chapter 410 brought a kid-size model plane with real working gears, and the Davenport Civil Air Patrol set up a flight simulator where kids could try their hand at flying. Add in the diverse lineup of aircraft and heavy machinery on display, and there was something for everyone to enjoy.
We also loved hearing from college students pursuing aviation careers, including those from the University of Dubuque, Iowa Lakes Community College, and Iowa State University. Their stories made the future of aviation feel that much brighter.
Our keynote speaker, Ashley Hanson, Unmanned Aviation Systems Manager with John Deere, shared inspiring words with a captivated audience. Ashley oversees global drone operations, manages cutting-edge technology, and even pilots UAVs for high-stakes missions. She’s also a licensed pilot, FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot, and passionate advocate for women in STEM. Her story showed just how far an aviation career can take you.
A huge thank you to our exhibitors, volunteers and everyone who made this day possible. Their energy and dedication are the heartbeat of Girls in Aviation Day, and we’re so grateful.
Want to relive the day? Check out the photos on our Facebook page. And if you’d like to join us as an exhibitor next year, email us at [email protected]—we’d love to have you!
By the numbers: This year’s event featured 28 exhibitors including more than 100 representatives and 20 volunteers. And, thanks to all of you, more than 500 people attended.