Girls in Aviation Day 2025: Inspiring the Next Generation

Maj Mary Valair (military co-chair of the DWAO) answers questions from attendees and their family

Held annually on the third Saturday of September, Girls in Aviation Day (GIAD) is a national event organized by Northern Spirit that introduces girls aged 8–17 to careers in aviation. By showcasing diverse trades and organizations—including STARS, Boeing, and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)—the event helps break down gender-based barriers and spark interest in young girls in fields traditionally seen as “male-dominated.”

17 Wing has long supported GIAD with enthusiasm, and 2025 was no exception. On 20 September 2025, 18 volunteers from nine different units, including the Wing Commander herself, joined the day’s activities held at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada and ensured a strong and engaging Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) presence.

Avr Swanson

A highlight of the day was the CT-142 Dash-8 static display, provided by 402 Squadron. Five volunteers from the unit guided participants and their families through the aircraft, answering questions and sharing personal insights about their careers in the CAF. This interactive experience has consistently been one of the most popular attractions of the event.

Another new and well-received addition this year was a CAF career panel featuring Maj Kayla Hobday (ACSO), Capt Sarah Bezanson (AOO), Maj ML Gordon (LogO), and Col Jody Hanson (WComd, AEC). Each shared their career journeys and responded to thoughtful questions from the audience, offering an inspiring look at the variety of paths available within the CAF.

Beyond showcasing aircraft and careers, the event underscored the RCAF’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, showing that women are welcome and valued within the organization. Many of the CAF volunteers present have a long history of supporting GIAD, including Maj Krystle Sloan, who has been involved since 2022. “This is an event very close to my heart. I want to live in a world where people don’t restrict their passion and interests because of their gender. Events like this help kids discover those passions early and challenge the notion that aviation, the CAF, or anything else they want to do isn’t for ‘girls.’ When we build diversity of experience and perspective into any team, it becomes stronger and more effective, and this is true for the CAF and RCAF as much as for the civilian aviation industry.”

The day wasn’t all serious learning—there was plenty of fun too. The always-popular kit dress-up station gave participants the chance to don flight gear for photos, with parents and siblings often joining in. Laughter, curiosity, and excitement filled the RAMWC, making it clear that GIAD 2025 left a lasting impression on both the girls and their families.