Recap: 3rd Annual AMAC She SOARS — Women in Aviation Summit

Nearly 500 aviation industry professionals came together in Chicago for the 3rd Annual AMAC She SOARS – Women in Aviation Summit, a two-day experience that brought bold ideas, candid conversations and meaningful opportunities to the forefront.

Hosted by the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) and Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) from September 21–22, 2026, #WIAS2026 brought together aviation professionals, talent leaders, entrepreneurs and industry advocates to examine the issues shaping the industry and the careers within it. An energizing lineup of speakers, thought-provoking panels, interactive learning experiences, wellness activations and opportunities to engage with peers and industry experts gave attendees practical perspectives on navigating an evolving aviation landscape, strengthening their careers and making an impact within their organizations.

The summit also underscored the importance of investing in the next generation of aviation talent. SSP America announced the SSP SOARS Leadership Initiative Scholarship—a $30,000 investment powered by the AMAC Foundation— to support the Tuskegee NEXT Foundation and outreach efforts in partnership with the AMAC Chicago Chapter. The investment will help expand access to education, professional opportunities and pathways for emerging talent pursuing careers in aviation.

The summit experience extended beyond sessions with the She SOARS Inside Aviation Experience Series at O’Hare and Midway International Airports. Attendees explored airport capital projects and concessions operations through behind-the-scenes experiences that brought the industry’s work to life. From learning about O’Hare’s major capital developments to exploring airport retail and dining operations, these experiences highlighted the people, partnerships and businesses shaping aviation while providing opportunities to meet women business owners and industry professionals.

Day One: A Powerful Start Rooted in Purpose, Wellness and Leadership

The summit officially opened Monday, September 21, with welcome remarks from CDA Commissioner Michael McMurray, AMAC Board Chair Ricky Smith, AMAC President & CEO Eboni Wimbush and Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois via a virtual address. Their remarks set the tone for a day centered on leadership, innovation and the importance of creating opportunities for women to thrive across the aviation industry.

Opening Keynote: Dr. Romie Mushtaq – Shine: The Brain Science of Hope

The summit began with an inspiring opening keynote from Dr. Romie Mushtaq, a triple board-certified physician, author of The Busy Brain Cure and Chief Wellness Officer at Great Wolf Lodge, whose work at the intersection of neuroscience, mindfulness and leadership brought a powerful wellness perspective to the aviation community. Through Shine: The Brain Science of Hope, Dr. Romie explored the importance of hope and well-being in how we lead, navigate challenges and show up in our personal and professional lives. Her message underscored a central theme of She SOARS: sustainable leadership starts with caring for the person behind the professional title.

Future Ready: Preparing for What’s Next in Aviation

Moderated by Peter Gargiulo, President of 4QD Strategy Consulting LLC, the Future Ready panel explored how artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and evolving workforce expectations are reshaping aviation. Panelists Michael Bell, Senior Client Partner, Aviation & Aerospace at Korn Ferry, and Carol Gaddis, Director of IT & Innovation at Richmond International Airport, shared perspectives on the skills, strategies and organizational capabilities needed to navigate an evolving industry. Their discussion encouraged attendees to embrace innovation, anticipate change and prepare themselves and their organizations for the opportunities ahead.

Featured Speaker: Tai Beauchamp – The Executive Brand Advantage

Tai Beauchamp, Entrepreneur, ReachTV Host and Founder of Tai Life Media, brought her signature energy and expertise to an interactive workshop designed to help attendees own their professional identities and strengthen their executive brands. A trailblazer in media, entrepreneurship and brand building, Tai challenged attendees to think intentionally about how they show up, communicate their value and position themselves for future opportunities. From thought leadership and strategic networking to industry visibility and authentic storytelling, The Executive Brand Advantage provided attendees with actionable strategies to elevate their presence, strengthen their credibility and expand their influence. Her career journey, which includes breaking barriers in beauty media and building successful entrepreneurial ventures, served as a compelling example of the power of purposeful branding and positioning.

Own Your Next Move: Taking Ownership of Career Growth

Moderated by Mary Person, Senior Vice President of Public-Private Initiatives at Clayco, Own Your Next Move explored how intentional decisions and strategic relationships can shape career and business growth.

Panelists Atousa Ghoreichi, Senior Vice President of Digital at Avolta, and Belinda Jain, Vice President of Customer Experience & Commercial Strategy at JFK International Air Terminal, shared executive perspectives on recognizing opportunities, navigating barriers and positioning oneself for continued success. The conversation encouraged attendees to approach their next career or business move with confidence, clarity and a strategy aligned with their long-term goals.

Lead with Presence: Communicating with Confidence

Angela Leigh, Performance Coach at United Airlines, facilitated Lead with Presence, a masterclass focused on strengthening executive presence and communicating with greater confidence. Attendees explored how authentic communication, purposeful interactions and the ability to influence and inspire trust can shape how others experience their leadership. The session offered practical strategies for navigating high-impact professional situations, from executive presentations to challenging conversations.

The Weight We Carry: Leading While Managing Life’s Demands

Moderated by Maria Meleandez, Chief of Staff at Denver International Airport, The Weight We Carry created space for an honest conversation about the responsibilities women often balance while advancing their careers.

Panelists Tracey Payne, First Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation; Jamie Rhee, Interim Executive Director of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority; and Desiree Rogers, Co-Owner & CEO of Black Opal, shared perspectives on navigating competing priorities, setting boundaries and sustaining personal well-being.

Their discussion reinforced the importance of recognizing the demands placed on women leaders and creating space for professional growth without sacrificing personal wellness.

Executive Decision Lab: Thinking Like an Executive

The Executive Decision Lab challenged attendees to step into experienced executives’ decision-making process and navigate realistic leadership scenarios. Moderated by Nikki Harland, CEO of Concessions International, and facilitated by Thyatiria Towns, Deputy Commissioner of Customer Experience & ID Badging Regulatory Compliance at the Chicago Department of Aviation, the interactive session brought together Yovette Drake, President of Unison Consulting; Victoria Edwards, Vice President of Procurement, Business Development & Contract Compliance at Wayne County Airport Authority; and Najla Haywood, CEO of FDY, Inc. The session leaders encouraged participants to evaluate complex situations, consider competing priorities and understand the strategic thinking behind executive decisions.

Networking Break: Recharge & Connect

Beyond the sessions, attendees could recharge in the Relax & Refresh Zone with soothing massage chairs, rejuvenating hand massages, pampering manicures and professional headshots. Attendees had opportunities to connect during the networking break, sponsored by Gong cha. The experience created space for meaningful conversations, new relationships and community building throughout the summit.

The Leadership Retention Gap: Why Women Stay. What Makes Them Leave.

Moderated by Shannetta Griffin, Executive Director & CEO of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, this discussion examined the organizational and leadership factors that influence women’s decisions to stay, grow or leave. Michelle Hodges, Vice President of Global Human Resources & Talent Management at United Airlines, joined the conversation to explore how workplace culture, leadership practices and career development opportunities shape long-term employee engagement and retention. The session emphasized that retaining talented women is not simply an HR responsibility but a leadership and organizational priority.

AMAC Airport Leadership Collective Fireside Chat: Lessons in Leadership

The AMAC Airport Leadership Collective Fireside Chat highlighted the journeys of accomplished aviation leaders and the experiences that shaped their paths to senior leadership. Moderated by Karen Ellis, Airport Assistant General Manager – Chief Customer Experience Officer at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the conversation featured Gladys Brown, Airport Director of Yuma International Airport & Rolle Airfield; Alexis Higgins, CEO of Tulsa International Airport; and Cynji Lee, Chief Legal Officer/General Counsel at Tampa International Airport. Through candid insights on leadership, mentorship and professional advancement, the panel offered attendees valuable perspectives on navigating challenges, building meaningful relationships and pursuing leadership opportunities across aviation.

Leadership, Career Growth and Meaningful Connection

After the sessions, attendees also had the opportunity to participate in Speed Mentoring, sponsored by JFK International Air Terminal, connecting with accomplished aviation leaders for valuable insights, career guidance and professional development. The experience reinforced the importance of mentorship and building relationships that support long-term growth. The day concluded with the Circle of Influence Reception, sponsored by ASUR Airports and United Airlines, creating additional space for relationships and conversations to flourish.

Day Two: Resilience, Reinvention & Turning Inspiration Into Impact

On Tuesday, September 22, the summit continued with a renewed focus on resilience, career evolution and translating inspiration into meaningful action. The morning began with welcome remarks from Bridget Biagas, Vice President of Business Development at Hudson by Avolta, and Tia Perry, AMAC’s Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Membership. Attendees also received a special gift bag sponsored by Hudson by Avolta, adding a thoughtful touch to the summit experience.

Still, I Rise: Finding Strength Through Adversity

Moderated by Stacey Lora, Vice President of Safety & Security at JFK International Air Terminal, Still, I Rise explored the resilience required to navigate personal and professional challenges. Panelists Rosemarie Andolino, President of Andolino Global Advisors; Henrietta Brown, Assistant Director of Administration at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport; and Devon Ray, Senior Director of Business Development at WHSmith North America, shared perspectives on perseverance, navigating adversity and finding purpose through challenging seasons. The conversation reminded attendees that setbacks do not define their futures and that resilience, perspective and courage can help transform challenges into opportunities for growth.

The Power of the Pivot: Embracing What’s Next

Moderated by Bernie Williams, Chief Strategy Officer and Acting Deputy Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation, The Power of the Pivot explored the pivotal moments that reshape careers and open doors to new possibilities. Panelists Rosa Beckett, CEO of Jackson Municipal Airport Authority; Angela Gittens, President of Schiphol USA; and Carolyn Hardy, CEO of Hardy Beverages, shared insights on adaptability, career transitions and recognizing opportunities for growth. Their perspectives encouraged attendees to leverage their existing strengths, remain authentic to their values and approach their next chapter with confidence and intention.

From Insight to Impact: Turning Inspiration Into Action

The summit culminated with From Insight to Impact, an interactive closing experience designed to help attendees translate the lessons and connections of She SOARS into meaningful action. Moderated by Jennifer Juul, Vice President of Development at SSP America and facilitated by Joyce Ganthavorn, Senior Talent Development Partner at San Francisco International Airport, the session invited attendees to reflect on their experiences, identify priorities and create a roadmap for continued growth. Through guided reflection, personal action planning, peer accountability and shared commitments, participants explored how the summit had impacted their personal and professional lives and identified areas they felt empowered to elevate. The closing experience brought the She SOARS mission full circle—reinforcing the reality that a leadership summit’s true value is measured not only by what attendees learn but by how they apply those insights long after the event concludes.

She SOARS Inside Aviation Experience Series: Bringing Aviation to Life & Beyond

The summit experience extended beyond sessions with the She SOARS Inside Aviation Experience Series at O’Hare and Midway International Airports. Attendees explored airport capital projects and concessions operations through behind-the-scenes experiences that connected professional development with real-world industry exposure. From learning about O’Hare’s major capital developments to exploring airport retail and dining operations, these experiences highlighted the people, partnerships and processes shaping aviation while creating opportunities to connect with women business owners and industry professionals.

The 3rd Annual AMAC She SOARS – Women in Aviation Summit served as a powerful reminder that when women are equipped with knowledge, supported by meaningful relationships and encouraged to lead with purpose, the impact reaches far beyond the individual. From Dr. Romie’s message on the science of hope to Tai Beauchamp’s strategies for building an influential executive brand and from candid airport leadership conversations to meaningful mentoring experiences, #WIAS2026 offered attendees opportunities to reflect, recharge, strengthen their leadership skills and envision what’s possible.

Thank you to our sponsors, speakers, attendees, volunteers and the planning committee for making the 3rd Annual She SOARS – Women in Aviation Summit an impactful experience. Through AMAC’s continued commitment to advancing opportunities and strengthening the aviation industry, She SOARS remains a meaningful platform that creates pathways for women to rise, lead and SOAR.