Celebrating Excellence in Flight Instruction

The Aspeq Flight Instruction Award acknowledges individuals who excel in mentoring and inspiring the next generation of pilots. Jess, this year's recipient, has set a high standard through her dedication to fostering a positive learning environment, earning deep respect from her students and peers.

Reflecting on the achievement, Jess said, “Thank you so much for this award. When I was a student, my instructor won this award, so receiving it now feels like a full-circle moment. I had so much fun learning to fly and have tried to emulate that for my students.”

Jess finds the most rewarding aspect of flight instruction to be watching her students succeed and embark on promising careers. “It’s a privilege to see my students grow and achieve their goals,” she added. Her approach to instruction focuses on building confidence and resilience, especially for female pilots entering a traditionally male-dominated field.

“I've been fortunate to have worked with many amazing and supportive people over the years.  Because instructing is such a people orientated job, eventually you will meet someone who is less open minded but I have always found support when I needed it. I have tried to help other female pilots build confidence so they can face those same adversities with ease,” Jess shared. Her advice to aspiring female pilots is clear: “Go for it! Don’t think that your gender is a hurdle and don't let anybody else tell you it is.”

Hamish Findlay commended Jess's commitment to excellence, noting that her inspiring leadership reflects the high standards upheld by both Massey University and Aspeq. “Jess embodies the qualities we look for in an award recipient. Her passion for flight instruction and her dedication to student success make her a role model in the industry,” he said.

The event highlighted Aspeq's ongoing commitment to supporting excellence in aviation training. Massey University’s School of Aviation, established in 1987, remains a cornerstone of New Zealand’s aviation education, offering a comprehensive curriculum to prepare graduates for various industry roles.

Despite the global underrepresentation of women in aviation, Jess’s achievement is a testament to the growing number of women making strides in the industry. Recent figures show that women make up only about 4% of pilots worldwide, underscoring the significance of initiatives which aim to inspire and motivate future generations of female aviators.

Jess’s commitment to excellence, her passion for teaching, and her dedication to student success continue to set her apart as a leader in flight instruction. Her journey is an inspiring example of the impact that dedicated educators can have in shaping the future of aviation.

“Receiving this award is an honour, and I’m excited to continue contributing to the aviation industry, helping students realise their potential as future airline pilots,” Jess concluded.