Flight Data Systems #WomenInAviation Series: Jennifer Weiss, Director of Engineering

Women of Aviation Worldwide Week (WOAW) is a global aviation awareness week for females across the globe. Originally marking the anniversary of the world’s first female pilot license on March 8, 1910, the week is a call to address the gender imbalance in the air and space industries.

This week we will be featuring remarkable aviation professionals from across the ACR Group of companies that make us succeed daily. We would like to thank every woman in the ACR Group for their ongoing support, and #ChooseToChallenge the status quo.

Here is a highlight of one of our talented team members.

What is your current role at Flight Data Systems?

I am the Director of Engineering.

What brought you to work in aviation?

I have always loved looking up at the sky and stars. I wanted to work for NASA and fly on a space shuttle. But instead, I have been traveling by air.

How long have you been part of the Flight Data Systems team?

Nearly 7 years.

What do you find rewarding about your work at Flight Data Systems?

I find it rewarding working with extremely talented colleagues to provide our customers with great solutions.

What do you enjoy about working in aviation and what do you find challenging?

I find airplanes and the feat of traveling through the air very fascinating.

What has been the most challenging obstacle in your career?

For my current role, I had to relocate from Texas to Florida. I am still adjusting to the cold weather and other changes.

What advice would you give to your 15-year old self?

This is a relevant question as this is the age I was when the space shuttle Challenger exploded. I decided then that I wanted to work for NASA and be a part of space exploration as well as safety. I would reassure my 15-year old self that if I made good decisions, I may eventually get there.

Why is gender diversity within the industry important to you?

Diversity, in general, is wonderful and valuable as it allows us to experience other viewpoints. Seeing women in aviation builds a confidence that this is a viable career path that is open to all and not just “rocket scientists”.

What would you tell young females interested in joining the industry?

When you look up at the stars, remember to follow your dreams. No one will tell you no but yourself.

Do you have a mentor or idol in aviation?

I idolize the actions of Captain Sully and events of his “miracle on the Hudson.”

What are some valuable life lessons that you have learned while working in aviation?

We all have the opportunity to work together to improve the safety of air travel for our loved ones.

To learn more about Women of Aviation Week, please visit https://womenofaviationweek.iwoaw.org/