Episode 49 - Planning the future of aviation with Leah

No U-Turn

Leah Whitfield, President of the Aviation Planning Group, joins us this week to share her story.

• Leah shares her journey from a farm in Kentucky to becoming a meteorologist and air traffic controller, with education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and an internship in weather forecasting for shuttle launches.
• The transition to air traffic control was driven by Leah's interest in aviation, math, and problem-solving, with radar classes being particularly engaging, and an age cutoff for training set at 31.
• Leah, as a young airport manager, emphasized the importance of political acumen in managing a small airport, where she gained diverse skills from handling projects to working with consultants.
• The gender dynamics in aviation education and the industry were discussed, highlighting the low ratio of women in engineering at Embry-Riddle and the importance of mentorship for young female professionals.
• We explored aviation innovations, such as electric and hybrid-electric aircraft, drone delivery infrastructure, and improving passenger experiences, with the team sharing their airport preferences and pet peeves.

Until next time, keep it on the centerline!