Oklahoma Women in Aviation & Aerospace Day

Oklahoma Women in Aviation and Aerospace Day is celebrated annually, honoring the legacy of Eula "Pearl" Carter Scott, the youngest U.S. female pilot and a Chickasaw Nation pioneer. The event showcases the achievements of women in aviation and aerospace, featuring keynote speakers, panels, and awards to inspire young women to pursue careers in the field.

Every year, the event alternates between Oklahoma City and Tulsa, attracting crowds of over 1,000+ people. Attendees are drawn by influential keynote speakers, including Admiral Peg Klein, Wally Funk, Gigi Coleman, Major Heather Penney, Colonel Eileen Collins, and Colonel Nicole Malachowski. Additionally, the event features celebrity emcees like Commander John Herrington and Jake Rademacher, a filmmaker based in Los Angeles, and Kellie Hudson, the first female certificated Air Boss in the United States.

With Oklahoma’s aerospace industry generating an impressive $44 billion, it's crucial to address the current lack of female representation, which sits at only 7%. This celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the need for increased participation by women in essential sectors like piloting, manufacturing, advanced air mobility technology, maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations (MRO), and air traffic control. The celebration also highlights the Pearl Carter Scott Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes exceptional contributions made by women in general and business aviation. Additionally, the Dr. Shannon Lucid Award honors industry professionals, and the Geraldyn Cobb Award pays tribute to military personnel. Together, these honors inspire a future where women's achievements in aviation and aerospace are celebrated and amplified.