With the aim of introducing local girls to the aviation industry, Sheltair Aviation’s FBO at Tampa International Airport hosted an open house last week in conjunction with Women in Aviation International’s annual Girls in Aviation Day. Company president Lisa Holland welcomed more than 100 youths and 40 volunteers to the event, which gave the possible future aviators a glimpse into the world of aviation.

On display were a pair of Cessna 172s, a Cessna 310, an Icon A5, and two helicopters, while the airport’s fire and rescue and police units provided a fire truck, police vehicle, and K-9 team. Members of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) “Hurricane Hunters” displayed their storm-tracking technology while discussing aviation’s role in weather forecasting. On the commercial side, a flight crew from Frontier Airlines, as well as retired United Airlines captain Aya Konstantinou, were on hand to field questions about airline careers.

Sheltair and fellow sponsor Jetex provided giveaways, and a craft table allowed attendees to create custom aviation-themed jewelry.

“As a woman in aviation, I’m honored to be in a position where I can help inspire young women in their path of becoming the aviation industry’s future,” said Holland. “It is important that we continue to support upcoming generations in our communities by representing them and providing viable options.”

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