March 2023 President's Message
Growing through IAWA
Blooms are just starting to appear on trees signifying that Spring is almost here in New England. It is always an exciting time of year. The garden stores are teaming with seed packets, plant food, and the latest in gardening products so as to nurture plants from seedlings to maturity. The word nurture means to care for and encourage the growth and develop of. Just as a gardener nurtures her plants and vegetables, IAWA nurtures its members through its many programs. Make sure that you are taking part in these events and maximize your personal growth.
While people often equate the need for nurturing with someone just starting out in their career, women at all levels benefit from nurturing. IAWA’s year-round programming and career growth network, are only a few examples of the ways that IAWA supports the development of women at all stages of their career. IAWA aims to meet the needs of its members. This year, for example, we have rolled out a Legal Committee consisting of in house and outside lawyers who have mutual interests and goals. IAWA is also investigating an IAWA app for your phone to make it easier for members to stay connected. IAWA is offering its members more than it ever has in the past, and it is always striving to develop or to finetune its programs to better serve its members.
IAWA has always been very active in helping to "grow" our future industry leaders. The annual scholarship programs for women studying in the aviation and aerospace field are a classic example. This year, I am pleased to report, IAWA will be giving out its 100th scholarship. To see these young women excel as they transition from students to professionals is a testament to the efforts of IAWA members who have encouraged, supported, and assisted these women with their careers. The Qooper mentoring program is another way that IAWA supports the growth and development of its members at all stages of their careers. The insight that our mentors have been able to share with their mentees has made a difference.
The key to a successful garden is a dedicated gardener who consistently cares for her plants to ensure they reach full maturity. Like a seedling that fails to thrive due to inattention from a gardener, your personal growth and development will be impacted by either a lack of or a lapse in engagement. The important distinction is that unlike the seedling who is dependent on the gardener, your personal growth depends on you. Renew your membership today to ensure your consistent development, strengthen your connections, participate in IAWA’s committees or programs, and be a part of an international community that is making a difference. You owe it to yourself to make this investment.
Happy Women's History Month & International Women’s Day 2023 - #EmbraceEquity!
Kathleen M. Guilfoyle
President, International Aviation Womens Association