Women set to soar in Penrith

Leaders of the aviation industry met in Penrith to launch the Women in Aviation Mentoring Program.

Senator the Hon Marise Payne, Minister for Women, launched the program on 17^th February to a packed room of distinguished guests, including a number of aviation industry experts who will mentor those in the program.

As the closest city to the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, Penrith was the perfect location to host the launch of the three-month program which is aimed at encouraging more women to pursue careers in the aviation industry.

The new airport is expected to deliver 28,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2031; providing an opportunity to increase the representation of women in a range of specialist aviation occupations. According to the Women in Aviation Industry Initiative, a 1% increase in people choosing a STEM-related career could result in over $50 billion in revenue for the Australian economy.

The mentoring program will see 20 girls and women receive one-on-one support from a mentor and attend intensive workshops that will improve their knowledge and confidence.

The program is open to women who work, live or have grown up in Western Sydney and would like to progress in the aviation industry. Expressions of interest for potential mentees are open until 29^th February 2020; and the program will commence in March. Visit Western Sydney Women for more information. 

Image: Senator the Hon Marise Payne (3^rd from left) launched the Women in Aviation Mentoring Program in Penrith.