On March 6, 2025, Women in Aerospace Canada (WIA) and the Ontario Aerospace Council (OAC) hosted #InspireHer, a dynamic International Women’s Day event celebrating women in aerospace. This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, emphasized the urgency of advancing diversity and inclusion in the industry.
#InspireHer hosted by Brenda Landry united industry professionals, students, and allies to champion diversity and inclusion in aerospace. The event highlighted the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and collaboration in shaping our industry. Most importantly it was a call to action to develop and advance women in aerospace.
Throughout the evening, attendees had the chance to enhance their professional branding with LinkedIn headshots, connect with industry leaders, and explore exciting opportunities with exhibitors such as Bombardier, MDA Space, De Havilland Aircraft Company of Canada, Centennial College, and MetRocketry from Toronto Metropolitan University. They also enjoyed networking over appetizers and refreshments, fostering meaningful connections in the aerospace community.
To close the night, the raffle contest featured incredible giveaways, including exciting prizes like self-development books and training sessions, airline flight tickets, exclusive golf experiences, and premium Cirque du Soleil show tickets!
Inspiring Keynotes & Panel Discussion:
Mayor Carolyn Parrish opened the event, followed by a compelling keynote from Nancy Barber, C.Dir., WIA Canada President and Robert J Deluce, Executive Chairman, Porter Airlines Inc.
A thought-provoking panel, moderated by Natasha Gagnon (OAC CEO), featured industry leaders such as:
- Nancy Hill, MDA Space
- Sandra Buckler, Bombardier
- Janet Wardle, De Havilland Canada
- Troy Ungerman, Norton Rose Fulbright
The key highlights of the discussions centred on how we can accelerate action in our industry. This means creating more opportunities for women to thrive in aviation while inspiring the next generation of students and young professionals about the exciting possibilities in the field.
Our panellists encouraged allies, mentors and sponsors to take an active role in advocating for gender equity within their organizations.
The final advice from our speakers and panellists? Go for it! Step out of your comfort zone, embrace challenges, and don’t be afraid to be bold and fearless!
#InspireHer #WomenInAerospace #IWD2025 #DiversityInAerospace #AccelerateAction