WAI Conferences
In March 1990, 150 people gathered for the first Women in Aviation Conference in Prescott, Arizona, on the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University campus.
No one knew what to expect at that first conference, but after a weekend of networking, it was clear there was a need for more women in the aviation industry. Soon, the conference became an annual event, and in December 1994, Women in Aviation International was established as a professional, non-profit organization.
Women in Aviation International held another successful annual gathering at the 37th Annual Women in Aviation International Conference at Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, March 19-21, 2026. With its unique blend of world-class speakers, busy exhibit hall, an array of education sessions, and 87 scholarship recipients, the WAI2026 conference delivered numerous opportunities to connect and network with female peers in the aviation and aerospace industry.
- A total attendance of nearly 5,500 includes 133 international representatives from 28 countries including Canada, Ghana, Nigeria, Puerto Rico, Brazil, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Ireland, Luxembourg, Kenya, Korea, St. Maarten, the Netherlands, India, Australia, Colombia, Czechia, Denmark, and more. WAI2026 attendees were 67% female and 33% male.
- The WAI Chapter network has reached 174 chapters in 26 countries worldwide representing 138 U.S. chapters and 36 international chapters.
- WAI2026 Speakers were Nicole Malachowski, Alex Marren, The Honorable Jennifer Homendy, Stephanie Chung, and Sarah Kalmata was the Emcee.
- This year’s PHOF inductees are Olga Custodio, Joan Sullivan Garrett, Nadine Berniece Ramsey.
- The exhibit hall hosted nearly 160 separate companies and organizations, representing all aspects of the aviation community.
- 87 scholarships totaling over $610,000 were awarded due to the generous support of funders.
- More than 200 girls, along with their chaperones, were hosted by more than 100 WAI volunteers at Girls in Aviation Day Dallas.
View videos from the WAI Annual Conference in Dallas, including the WAI2026 wrap-up, 2026 scholarship winners, Pioneer Hall of Fame inductees, and more on the WAI YouTube Channel, @WomeninAviationIntl.
CONFERENCE
2026 Women in Aviation International Conference
Future Dates for the Women in Aviation International Conference
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February 25-27, 2027
Savannah Convention Center, Savannah, Georgia
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February 24-26, 2028
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center
Nashville, Tennessee
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March 22-24, 2029
Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
Denver, Colorado (Aurora)
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March 14-16, 2030
Marriott Orlando World Center, Orlando, Florida
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