SAFE Executive Director David St. George Retires: What’s Next for Aviation Educators?

Join the Aerial Firefighter Panel: Inspiring Women in Aviation

Update Women in Aviation: A Groundbreaking Panel DiscussionThe upcoming Speaker Series held by EAA is set to spotlight the inspiring journeys of three remarkable aerial firefighters: Annie Paya, Bonnie Wilkens, and Tracy Zedeck. On May 21, at the EAA Aviation Museum, these trailblazers will host a panel discussion that goes beyond mere storytelling; they each bring a unique background that highlights the passion and perseverance it takes to thrive in the world of firefighting from the air.From Ground to Sky: Annie Paya's JourneyAnnie Paya is a prime example of determination. Starting her career as a wildland firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service, she took to the skies after seven years of battling flames on the ground. "I remember the first time I watched a helicopter drop water. I was completely captivated," Paya recalls. Today, she operates a Blackhawk UH-60 helicopter, integrating her hands-on experiences with ground crews into her aerial firefighting tactics. This dual insight allows her to strategize effectively and communicate seamlessly with ground teams, ensuring efficiency and safety during operations.Bonnie Wilkens: Breaking BarriersBonnie Wilkens' path into aviation was not a direct one. Originally aspiring to be a veterinarian, a chance skydiving experience diverted her dream. After obtaining a degree in bioaeronautics, Wilkens joined the U.S. Forest Service as the first female firefighter pilot in 1989. Her diverse flying background—from the Bell 47 to the challenging Boeing CH-47 Chinook—shows just how versatile and dedicated she is. Wilkens emphasizes the fulfilling nature of aerial firefighting, stating, "You are doing something good for the community, be it their home, livestock, or farm." Unlike other missions that yield delayed results, aerial firefighting shows immediate impacts, providing a rewarding sense of accomplishment.Tracy Zedeck: Aerial Firefighter ExtraordinaireJoining the ranks of these powerful women is Tracy Zedeck, who transforms her childhood passion for aviation into a career fighting wildfires. With nearly a decade of experience, she operates a Canadair CL-415 “Super Scooper,” notable for its capacity to scoop and drop vast amounts of water on fires. Zedeck’s journey reflects her determination—starting as a glider tow pilot, she gained the essential skills and experience that would lead her to her dream job in aerial firefighting. "A big part of this industry is staying humble, supporting one another, and being willing to keep learning," she shares—a powerful message that resonates through the panel.The Necessity of Community in Aerial FirefightingCollectively, these three women share a strong conviction about the importance of teamwork in aerial firefighting. Wilkens encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: "None of us do this alone, and we’re all better when we’re willing to learn from each other." Their ability to collaborate effectively not only promotes safety but also empowers them to handle the dynamic nature of aerial firefighting successfully.Inspirational Future for Young AviatorsThe narrative of these aerial firefighters serves as a beacon for younger generations interested in aviation. For youths aged 15-40, the panel presents an opportunity to discover not just the technical aspects of flying but also the profound sense of community and achievement that comes from protecting lives through their skills. Aviation's gender disparities are slowly but surely being bridged by women like Paya, Wilkens, and Zedeck, who are reshaping the landscape of what it means to be a pilot today.Join the ConversationFor aviation enthusiasts or anyone interested in the heroic lives of firefighters, particularly in the air, the EAA Speaker Series on May 21 is an event not to miss. Free for EAA members and youth, and just $5 for nonmembers, this discussion illustrates not only the marvels of aviation but also highlights the courage of women redefining roles in a predominantly male industry.Mark your calendars and be part of this enriching conversation that may just ignite your own passion for aviation!