Air Transport Services Group Inspires Future Female Aviation Leaders at Girls in Aviation Day 2025
Air Transport Services Group, Inc. (ATSG) opened its doors on Saturday, September 20, at the Wilmington Air Park for its highly anticipated third annual Girls in Aviation Day, welcoming more than 70 students, educators, and community members. This event, part of a worldwide initiative led by Women in Aviation International, is designed to introduce young women to the diverse and dynamic opportunities available in the aviation and aerospace sectors. By providing hands-on, immersive experiences, ATSG aims to spark curiosity, build confidence, and empower the next generation of female leaders in the industry.
A Hands-On Introduction to Aviation Careers
Girls in Aviation Day 2025 offered participants a unique opportunity to explore the many career paths within aviation—from flight operations and engineering to aircraft maintenance and airport ground operations. Attendees were able to see, touch, and experience aviation technology firsthand, giving them a deeper understanding of the skills, knowledge, and teamwork required in the field.
One of the day’s most popular activities was the aircraft tours and maintenance demonstrations. Students were invited into ATSG hangars to meet professional aviation technicians who guided them through the inner workings of aircraft. Participants learned how aircraft are maintained, the importance of safety protocols, and the technical knowledge required to keep planes in peak operating condition. Many attendees expressed excitement at seeing the complex systems of an aircraft up close, including engines, avionics, and landing gear.
Flight Simulation and the Cockpit Experience
Another highlight of the day was the flight simulator experience, which allowed participants to step into the cockpit of a Boeing 757 simulator. Under the guidance of experienced pilots and flight instructors, students navigated virtual takeoffs, landings, and in-flight maneuvers. The hands-on experience offered a realistic sense of what it is like to operate a commercial aircraft, and many young attendees reported feeling inspired to consider a future as a professional pilot.
“This experience allows students to see aviation from a perspective they would never get in a classroom,” said Kym Parks, director of marketing at ATSG. “It’s one thing to talk about flying a plane or working in aerospace, but when you can actually sit in the cockpit and control an aircraft, it becomes tangible. It’s about turning dreams into possibilities.”
STEM Workshops Foster Creativity and Innovation
Girls in Aviation Day also featured a series of STEM-focused workshops, organized in partnership with local educational institutions, including Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, University of Cincinnati-Clermont / Sporty’s Academy, Bowling Green State University, and Wright State University. These workshops provided interactive, hands-on activities designed to showcase the role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in aviation and aerospace.
Participants engaged in exercises that highlighted aircraft structures, engineering design principles, and problem-solving skills. Many workshops encouraged creativity, challenging students to think like engineers and designers as they conceptualized new aircraft designs or solved real-world aviation challenges. By integrating STEM concepts with practical aviation applications, the workshops emphasized the importance of technical skills and innovative thinking in today’s aerospace industry.
Exploring Ground Operations and Safety Roles
A key component of the event was exposing attendees to airport ground operations. Students had the rare opportunity to operate airport firefighting vehicles and deicing equipment, gaining firsthand insight into the critical roles that support aviation safety. These activities helped students understand the diverse career paths in aviation beyond piloting, including technical and operational roles that are essential to airport and airline functionality.
Through these exercises, attendees learned about the teamwork, precision, and safety protocols required to manage airport operations. They also gained a deeper appreciation for the behind-the-scenes professionals who keep airports and airlines running smoothly and safely.
Creative Aviation Projects for Younger Participants
Girls in Aviation Day also celebrated creativity and personal expression through art-based aviation projects. Younger participants were encouraged to design and present their own aircraft livery artwork, combining artistic skills with an understanding of aviation branding and aesthetics. This activity highlighted that aviation is not only about engineering and technology—it’s also about innovation, imagination, and bringing ideas to life in a tangible form.
ATSG’s Commitment to Empowering the Next Generation
“This event is about inspiring the next generation of aviation leaders,” said Kym Parks. “By opening our facilities and engaging students with real-world experiences, we hope to show them that there is a place for them in this exciting industry—whether as pilots, engineers, technicians, or leaders. We want young women to see that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.”
ATSG’s Girls in Aviation Day is part of the company’s broader commitment to workforce development, education, and community engagement. The 2025 event represents a continuation of efforts to bridge the gap between education and industry, helping students envision and prepare for meaningful careers in aviation.
Collaboration with Educational Partners
The success of Girls in Aviation Day 2025 was made possible through collaboration with numerous educational partners. Institutions such as Cincinnati State, University of Cincinnati-Clermont / Sporty’s Academy, Bowling Green State University, and Wright State University contributed to workshops, demonstrations, and mentorship, providing participants with a well-rounded and comprehensive learning experience. These partnerships also reinforce the importance of community involvement in workforce development, as local educational institutions play a critical role in equipping students with the skills needed for future success.
ATSG’s Broader Workforce Initiatives
Beyond Girls in Aviation Day, ATSG remains dedicated to workforce development through a variety of programs designed to cultivate talent and provide practical, hands-on training. Programs such as Aviation Camp, AirborneTech (an earn-while-you-learn A&P program), and ATSG Pilot Pathways provide structured opportunities for students and young professionals to gain experience and develop skills that are directly applicable to aviation careers. Additionally, ATSG actively partners with schools and universities across the region to support career pathways and create opportunities for students to transition seamlessly into the workforce.
Through these initiatives, ATSG demonstrates its commitment to nurturing a diverse and talented workforce capable of meeting the evolving needs of the aviation and aerospace industries. By providing access to hands-on experiences, mentorship, and career guidance, ATSG helps students—and particularly young women—build confidence, pursue their passions, and envision a future in aviation.
As the aviation industry continues to grow and innovate, programs like Girls in Aviation Day play a critical role in shaping the next generation of leaders. By introducing young women to the many facets of aviation and aerospace, ATSG is helping to break down barriers and expand opportunities for underrepresented groups in the industry.
Girls in Aviation Day 2025 not only celebrated the excitement and possibilities of aviation careers but also reinforced the message that passion, curiosity, and determination are the keys to success. For the students, educators, and community members who participated, the event offered inspiration, practical knowledge, and the motivation to explore aviation and aerospace careers with confidence.
As ATSG looks to the future, it remains committed to hosting events and developing programs that inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of aviation professionals. With hands-on experiences, supportive partnerships, and a dedication to workforce development, ATSG continues to lead the way in fostering diversity, innovation, and excellence in aviation.
Air Transport Services Group, Inc. (ATSG) is a leading aviation services company dedicated to providing comprehensive air cargo solutions, aircraft maintenance, and pilot training programs. Through its subsidiaries, ATSG serves a global network of customers and maintains a strong commitment to workforce development, community engagement, and technological innovation in aviation.