The upcoming YQL Aviation Day event will have the theme of "Women in Aviation." (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge Airport to host first annual YQL Aviation Day

Feb 12, 2024 | 12:57 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Officials are set to showcase what the Lethbridge Airport and the aviation industry have to offer.

The Airport, in collaboration with CAREERS: The Next Generation, has announced the inaugural YQL Aviation Day. It is a free community event on May 25, 2024 that will showcase aviation careers.

The theme for this year’s YQL Aviation Day is “Women in Aviation.”

Opportunity Lethbridge General Manager Abby Slovack said that not only are there shortages of pilots, but also in categories such as air traffic controllers, operations, engineering, maintenance, and security.

“When you look at the number of women currently in those careers, the diversity is dismal. The latest numbers from Statistics Canada show that only six per cent of commercial airplane pilots in Canada are women, four per cent of commercial helicopter pilots, and 15 per cent of air traffic controllers,” said Slovack.

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The event was the brainchild of Anthony Kish, an electrician at the Lethbridge Airport.

He said his own children were his main source of inspiration.

“I have four daughters and one of them is interested in being a pilot. I’m trying to encourage the others as well – one wants to be in the trades. I just noticed many of the speed bumps they were having in all different areas, not just in aviation, but the trades that are already out there,” said Kish.

He added, “As a parent, I felt angry almost that this was still happening, and I felt naive to think that it wasn’t happening anymore.”

YQL Aviation Day will feature a static aircraft display, including an F-18 Demo Cockpit, courtesy of the Royal Canadian Air Force. It will also have a career fair, networking opportunities, and guest speakers who are accomplished female aviation professionals.

Although the theme is Women in Aviation, the Airport said everyone is welcome to come.

Pre-registration is required, which can be done on the Lethbridge Airport website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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