"The feeling that is pervasive at the Conference is that everything ­ and anything ­ is possible. The enthusiasm is incredible, almost palpable, and many of the women leave the Conference feeling that the future is theirs for the taking. For many of the attendees, the business cards exchanged, contacts made and friends met keep the spirit alive until the booster shot of enthusiasm can be administered at the next Conference."
---Tom Benenson, Senior Editor, FLYING Magazine

More than 3,000 aviation professionals and enthusiasts will convene at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, March 13-15, 2002, for the 13th Annual International Women in Aviation Conference. The conference theme, “Keys to the Changing Dynamics of Aviation,” reflects a multitude of informative workshops and dynamic presentations designed to promote successful interaction in an ever-changing aviation environment.

General session invited speakers include the Honorable Norman Mineta, U.S. Secretary of Transportation; Gary Hay, President, Cessna Aircraft Company; Astronauts Hoot Gibson and Rhea Seddon; Denise Waters, round the world air racing pilot; and, motivational speaker and humorist Ralph Hood. Invited members on the featured Industry Leaders Panel include Tom Poberezny, President, Experimental Aircraft Association; Carol Hallett, President, Air Transport Association; Jack Olcott, President, National Business Aviation Association; and, Colonel Kim Olsen, United States Air Force.

This year’s conference has the distinction of conferring the Federal Aviation Administration’s General Aviation Industry Awards. The awards emphasize the important role industry partners have in promoting aviation safety and education. The conference will also include a wide variety of educational sessions, scholarship opportunities, and over 185 aviation related exhibits.

Women in Aviation, International (WAI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the encouragement and advancement of women in all aviation career fields and interests. WAI membership, over 6,500 active members strong, is open to women and men in all segments of the aviation industry. Benefits of membership include: annual conference, bi-monthly magazine Aviation for Women, scholarship opportunities, network base for personal and career development, government and industry representation, educational programs and mentorship opportunities. For more information regarding the 2002 annual conference or for membership information, contact WAI at P.O. Box 11287, Daytona Beach, FL 32120-1287; Phone (386) 226-7996; Fax (386)226-7998; E-mail wai@wiai.org. Or, visit the WAI web site: www.wiai.org