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 36th  Annual Women in Aviation International Conference at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Denver, Colorado, March 27-29, 2025. With its unique blend of world-class speakers, busy exhibit hall, an array of education sessions, and more than 90 scholarship recipients, the WAI2025 conference delivered numerous opportunities to connect and network with female peers in the aviation and aerospace industry. 

"As the largest organization in the world dedicated to women in all aspects of aviation and aerospace, WAI celebrated the strength, growth, and determination of the Women in Aviation International community during this week’s annual conference," WAI CEO Lynda Coffman said, adding, “While women in aviation and aerospace continue to face significant challenges—including systemic barriers and discouraging rhetoric—our shared commitment, passion, and collective action will propel us forward." During her opening keynote address this week, Lynda called for unity, resilience, and purpose-driven action urging attendees to stay focused on the “WAI vision of a world where the sky is open to all, where aviation and aerospace dreams are possible, without barriers.”

A total attendance of nearly 5,000 includes 168 international representatives from 34  countries including Nigeria, Canada, United Kingdom, Tunisia, Brazil, Australia, United Arab Emirates, Australia, Kenya, Ghana, Ireland, Japan, and others. WAI2025 attendees were 70% female and 23% male.
The WAI Chapter network has reached more than 170 chapters in 23 countries worldwide representing 140 U.S. chapters and 33 international chapters.
WAI2025 Speakers were Emily Calandrelli, Michelle “MACE” Curran, Natalee Johnston, Amy Purdy, Bonny Simi, and Stephanie Goetz was the Emcee.
This year’s PHOF inductees are Janet Harmon Bragg, Willa Brown Chappell, and Theresa Claiborne.
The exhibit hall hosted over 170  separate companies and organizations, representing all aspects of the aviation community.
93 scholarships were awarded due to the generous support of donors.
More than 250 girls along with their chaperones, were hosted by more than 100 WAI volunteers, at Girls in Aviation Day Denver.

View videos from the WAI Annual Conference in Denver, including the opening conference video, 2025 scholarship winners, Pioneer Hall of Fame inductees, International Ambassadors program, and more on the WAI YouTube Channel, @WomeninAviationIntl.