The Ripple Effect.

When I reflect on my journey in aviation, one recurring theme stands out: the ripple effect. It’s the idea that when we support others, we create waves that spread far beyond what we might initially imagine. In my case, the ripple effect began with a few people who believed in me when I first started out in aviation—a field that wasn't always welcoming to women. Their support not only gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams but also instilled in me a deep desire to give back to the incredible aviation community that had embraced me.

Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how giving back creates a powerful ripple effect. It’s not just about paying it forward, but about nurturing a culture of support, encouragement, and mentorship that transcends borders, generations, and industries. And one thing I've always believed in, especially when it comes to volunteer organizations, is that you get back what you put in. The more energy, passion, and commitment you contribute, the more you grow and thrive as a part of that community.

In the early days of my aviation career, I was fortunate to find people who saw potential in me. Their encouragement and belief in my abilities planted a seed of determination and perseverance. But more importantly, it instilled in me a sense of responsibility to give back to the community that had helped me grow. This became a core value that I carried with me as I navigated my path through the aviation world.

Whether it’s been my involvement in air racing in the United States or teaching students to fly in Australia, I’ve always been driven by the desire to create ripples of my own. Every student I’ve mentored, every conversation I’ve had with aspiring pilots, and every race I’ve participated in has been an opportunity to pass on the support I once received. These moments, I believe, are where the ripple effect truly comes to life.

The most significant moment of support I received in my aviation journey came when I joined the Australian Women Pilots’ Association (AWPA) in 2008. It was here that I truly found my community—the people who believed in me, championed my growth, and inspired me to strive for greater heights. The AWPA, dedicated to female pilots and air traffic controllers, has been an unwavering source of mentorship and camaraderie, offering guidance and connection at every stage of my career.

What I found at the AWPA was not only a network but a family of strong, determined women who were committed to advancing the role of females in aviation. This sense of belonging and empowerment was pivotal in shaping the trajectory of my career, and it lit a spark in me to help others find the same support. In fact, the AWPA was the very inspiration behind my decision to establish the Women in Aviation Australia chapter in 2015. I wanted to extend the AWPA’s legacy and broaden its reach by supporting not only female pilots and air traffic controllers but all women and men in aviation across every sector, from engineers to cabin crew, and beyond.

Founding Women in Aviation Australia was my way of creating a wider ripple, expanding the boundaries of who could be supported and inspired by this incredible industry. The AWPA had been my foundation, and I wanted to build on that by creating an organization that embraced everyone in all aviation fields. Women in Aviation Australia is dedicated to ensuring that no matter where a woman works in aviation, she has a place to turn to for mentorship, resources, and community. The ripple effect from this has been immense, with women from every corner of aviation finding the support they need to pursue and achieve their dreams.

When it comes to volunteer organizations, I've always said: you get back what you put in. The more effort, time, and heart you contribute, the greater the rewards. It’s true for me in organizations like AWPA, Women in Aviation Australia and the Honourable Company of Air Pilots it’s something I’ve seen time and again throughout my career. Volunteering is not just about giving, it's about receiving—friendships, experiences, growth, and an invaluable sense of fulfillment.

I’ve witnessed firsthand the amazing ripple effect of this mindset. Every time we invest in someone else, we gain so much in return: new perspectives, lifelong connections, and the satisfaction of knowing we’ve made a difference. These small acts of giving create powerful waves that not only impact those we help but also come back to enrich our own lives in unexpected ways.

The ripple effect is real, and we all have the power to contribute to it. So how can you support it in your own life?

1. **Mentor Someone**: Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just a few steps ahead of someone else, offering mentorship can create a ripple that lasts a lifetime. Your guidance can inspire someone to achieve things they never thought possible.

2. **Share Your Journey**: Being open about your experiences—both the successes and the struggles—can encourage others who may be facing similar challenges. When we share our stories, we create connection and inspire others to keep going.

3. **Get Involved**: Whether through industry organizations, community groups, or informal networks, getting involved allows you to give back in ways that can have a profound impact. Organizations like the AWPA have given me so much, and being an active participant has allowed me to contribute to the community that has given me so much in return.

4. **Encourage Others to Dream Big**: Sometimes, all it takes is a kind word or a show of belief in someone’s potential to spark a wave of inspiration. Encourage those around you to dream big, and help them see that their dreams are within reach.

5. **Foster Inclusive Spaces**: Creating environments where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to succeed is one of the most impactful ways to contribute to the ripple effect. When people feel valued, they are more likely to pass that feeling on to others.

Every person we support, every dream we encourage, and every community we give back to contributes to a larger wave of change. The ripple effect isn’t something that happens overnight, but it is real. I’ve seen it in my career, my students, my involvement in air racing, and in the organizations I’ve been privileged to be a part of like AWPA, The Honourable Company of Air Pilots and Women in Aviation Australia. It’s a powerful reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness and support can create waves that span far and wide, touching lives in ways we may never fully understand.

As I look back on my journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the people who believed in me and for the opportunity to give back to the community that has been a constant source of strength and inspiration. The ripple effect is a testament to the power of connection, and I’m excited to see how it continues to shape the future of aviation and beyond.

How will you create your ripple?