National Women In Aerospace Day
National Women in Aerospace Day celebrates and honors women’s contributions to the aerospace industry, from commercial aviation to space exploration. This observance aims to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in aerospace while recognizing the achievements of pioneering women in the field.
Quick Facts
When is it?: May 20 annually
Tagged as: Women in Aviation and Aerospace
What’s the hashtag?: #WomenInAerospace
When was it founded?: August 2021
Who founded it?: Nikki Malcom, CEO of Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance
History
The day was established to create more access and visibility for women in aerospace. While women have been involved in aviation since 1908, breaking barriers in the industry was challenging before 1970. In 1985, Women in Aerospace (WIA) was formed, growing to over 2,000 members representing 250 companies today.
Timeline
• 1911: Harriet Quimby becomes first U.S. woman pilot
• 1921: Bessie Coleman becomes first African American woman pilot
• 1963: Valentina Tereshkova becomes first woman in space
• 1985: Women in Aerospace organization founded
• 2021: National Women in Aerospace Day established
Dates for Coming Years
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | May 20 | Monday |
| 2025 | May 20 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | May 20 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | May 20 | Thursday |
| 2028 | May 20 | Friday |
| 2029 | May 20 | Sunday |
How It’s Observed
The day is celebrated similarly to International Women’s Day, with events, programs, and recognition of women’s achievements in aerospace. Organizations host special programs, mentoring sessions, and educational outreach activities.
Fun Facts About Aerospace Women
As of 2022, women make up 11.2% of aerospace engineers in the United States, with over 5,292 aerospace engineers currently employed.
Quiz
- Who was the first female aerospace engineer?
- What year was Women in Aerospace founded?
- Who created National Women in Aerospace Day?
-(Answers: 1. Elsie MacGill in 1938, 2. 1985, 3. Nikki Malcom)
FAQs
Q: Are women allowed in aerospace engineering?
A: Yes, women can pursue aeronautical engineering with considerable scope in the industry.
Q: Who was the first woman in space?
A: Valentina Tereshkova in 1963.
Importance of the Day
• Celebrates women’s achievements in aerospace
• Encourages more women to join the industry
• Promotes STEM education among young girls
• Helps create a more inclusive aerospace industry
• Honors historical contributions of women pioneers
Related Days
• International Women’s Day
• Women in Aviation Week
• International Day of Women and Girls in Science
• National Aviation Day
• International Civil Aviation Day
