Chapter Sessions & Information
There's no better place to be inspired, share your enthusiasm, and connect with others who share your passion for the aviation industry.
See below for full information on the following Chapter Sessions at WAI2027:
- Shared Skies: A Chapter Leadership Workshop
- Runway to Success: Planning & Hosting An Outstanding GIAD Event
- Squadron Goals: Leading Your WAI Student Chapter
- Fueling Your Chapter: A Practical Guide to Fundraising & Sponsorship
Shared Skies: A Chapter Leadership Workshop
Wednesday, FEBRUARY 24 | 1—5 p.m.
Registration required: please indicate that you are a Chapter Leader during the registration process, and then select this session if you plan to attend.
Join us for an interactive, peer led session designed specifically for WAI chapter leaders! Rather than a traditional workshop, this session puts chapter leaders in the driver's seat, sharing real experiences, strategies, and lessons learned directly with one another.
Chapter leaders will present on topics they've navigated firsthand, opening the floor for discussion, questions, and shared problem-solving. Key topics include:
- Effective succession planning between chapter boards
- Onboarding strategies for new chapter leaders
- Engaging and retaining volunteers
- Successful event planning
Rather than a one-way presentation, this session is built around chapters learning directly from each other, hearing what's actually working (and what isn't) in chapters across the WAI network, and walking away with real, tested ideas you can bring home. Whether you're a new leader or a seasoned one, this is your chance to connect, collaborate, and grow alongside the leaders who understand your challenges best.
Planning & Hosting An Outstanding GIAD Event
Thursday, February 25 | 1—2:30 p.m.
Girls in Aviation Day isn't just an event, it's a launchpad. Led by WAI Chapters and Corporate Members around the globe, this beloved initiative throws open the doors to aviation and aerospace for youth ages 8 to 18, turning curiosity into hands-on discovery through interactive activities and experiences kids won't forget.
Come hear from the people who make it happen: seasoned event hosts sharing the tips, tricks, and heartfelt stories behind planning a Girls in Aviation Day that truly soars. Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 18, 2027, a day built to spark big dreams and launch even bigger futures.
Seating for this session will be on a first come first serve basis. WAI strongly recommends that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the session in order to secure your seat. For security reasons, we will not be able to add additional seating in the session rooms.
Leading Your WAI Student Chapter
Friday, february 26 | 10:15 a.m.—12:15 p.m.
Student and Collegiate chapters are where aviation comes alive, a vibrant, hands-on gateway into the industry unlike anything you'll find in a classroom. Now expanded to a full 2 hours, this lively and insightful session gives a panel of passionate chapter leaders the time and space to dig deep, sharing their real-world experiences: the triumphs, the hurdles, and everything in between.
Through candid stories and practical advice, you'll walk away with real tools to lead your own chapter with clarity and confidence. With additional time to ask questions, dig into specifics, and connect with leaders who've been exactly where you are, this session is built for genuine, unhurried conversation. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your existing group, this is your chance to build a thriving, engaged community that reflects the true spirit of WAI.
Seating for this session will be on a first come first serve basis. WAI strongly recommends that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the session in order to secure your seat. For security reasons, we will not be able to add additional seating in the session rooms.
A Practical Guide to Fundraising & Sponsorship
Friday, February 26 | 12:45 p.m.—2:15 p.m.
Every great chapter needs the resources to match its ambition, and this session is your fuel stop. Designed for chapter leaders ready to move beyond bake sales and one-off asks, this practical, hands-on workshop breaks down what it actually takes to build sustainable funding for your chapter's programs and events.
You'll walk through the fundamentals of building a fundraising strategy that works for your chapter's size and goals, along with real, actionable tactics including:
- Crafting a sponsorship pitch that gets a "yes"
- Identifying and approaching the right corporate and community partners
- Structuring fundraising events that people actually want to attend
- Balancing member-driven giving with outside sponsorship support
- Avoiding common pitfalls that stall momentum before it starts
Led by leaders who've done the asking, the planning, and the follow-through themselves, this session trades theory for tested, real-world tools you can put to use as soon as you land back home. Whether your chapter is just getting its fundraising engine started or looking to scale what's already working, you'll leave with a clear, practical roadmap for keeping your chapter fully fueled.
Seating for this session will be on a first come first serve basis. WAI strongly recommends that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the session in order to secure your seat. For security reasons, we will not be able to add additional seating in the session rooms.
Chapter Logo Contest
Ready to show off your chapter's unique style? Submit your custom logo design and join the celebration of creativity and community spirit!
Deadline to Submit: February 1, 2027
Dorothy Hilbert Chapter Volunteer Of The Year Award
Every chapter has that one extraordinary volunteer—the person who consistently goes above and beyond, lifting others up and making a lasting impact. The Dorothy Hilbert Chapter Volunteer of the Year Award is your opportunity to recognize that individual and celebrate their dedication, leadership, and heart.
Submission Deadline: February 1, 2027
Chapter Connect Reception
Wednesday, FEBRUARY 24 | 6:30—7:30 p.m.
(For Chapter Members; must select during registration)
Kick off your conference experience with one of the most anticipated chapter events of the year! The WAI Chapter Connect Reception is a lively gathering designed exclusively for chapter members attending the conference. It’s a chance to reconnect, network, and celebrate the vibrant WAI chapter community.
Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar as you mingle with fellow members from across the globe. Please note: this is a reception, not a dinner—plan your meals accordingly.
If you're a registered conference attendee and chapter member but haven’t received your invitation, simply select during registration to join the fun. Don’t miss this energizing start to your WAI experience!
Annual Conference Chapter Showcase
Celebrate Your Chapter at the Chapter Showcase!
Put your chapter in the spotlight by showcasing your incredible members and achievements at this year’s Chapter Showcase.
Chapter Showcase Sign Up & Details
Volunteer Opportunities
The annual WAI conference isn't possible without a small army of volunteers! More than 500 volunteers pull together to make each annual conference a success. Join our volunteer crew at WAI2027 and have fun experiencing the conference in a different way and meet other WAI members.
Please note, you must be registered for the day at the conference that you are volunteering. Please submit your registration first, and when asked if you are interested in volunteering, simply check "yes" and our Volunteer coordinators will reach out to you with the next steps!
Volunteer coordinators Ryan Martin and Tatiana Zolotorevskaya can answer your questions via Email at volunteer@wai.org.
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