Katherine has worked in the aviation industry for eight years and proudly describes herself as a woman in aviation. Her journey began at 18, straight out of school, when she joined Transair Flight Equipment in a warehouse role. Over time, she gained hands-on experience across nearly every aspect of the business — from warehouse operations and sales to retail and aviation exhibitions. Her commitment and insight led to her appointment as a company Director two years ago.

It was during her early days at Transair that her passion for aviation truly took flight. “I was given the opportunity to take a trial lesson at Advance Helicopters at Brighton City Airport, in an R44,” she recalls. That moment was pivotal. In 2018, at the age of 19, she earned her Private Pilot Licence for Helicopters (PPL(H)), and has since logged over 400 hours in both piston and turbine helicopters.

General Aviation is Katherine’s passion. “One of the main reasons I love this area of the industry so much is the variety and the different facets of aviation you can explore,” she says. After several years of flying helicopters and building hours, she decided to challenge herself further by improving her airmanship through fixed-wing training.

“I had my first fixed-wing trial lesson in 2020,” she explains. “I was incredibly lucky to train under an outstanding instructor and mentor.” Her experience flying the T67 Firefly significantly improved her overall aviation skills — not only in fixed-wing aircraft, but also in helicopters. She achieved her PPL(A) in 2022, nearly four years to the day after her helicopter licence.

“I understand I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my journey,” Katherine reflects. “I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had — and I want to use that privilege in a positive way to help the aviation industry, particularly by encouraging young people and women to pursue careers in aviation.”

In 2022, she was appointed a Department for Transport Aviation Ambassador, an influential role through which she has worked on key industry initiatives alongside inspiring professionals. She also represented UN Women UK as a CSW68 delegate, engaging in international dialogue on gender equality.

ElevateHer emerged from Katherine’s own experience of feeling isolated as a woman in a male-dominated industry. “I never met another woman in aviation,” she notes. “Not instructors, not examiners, not engineers. I felt like the odd one out.” In response, she hosted a small event in London to connect with other women in the field. “The energy was incredible,” she remembers. “People were sharing stories and offering support — it was really special.”

From that gathering, ElevateHer was born. Officially launched on International Women’s Day in 2023, it has rapidly expanded into a global platform with over 24 volunteers and thousands of members across 64 countries. The initiative is grounded in 40 key pillars that range from perception-shifting and educational outreach to events, mental wellness, and long-term career development.

“Education is vital,” Katherine explains. “We send free aviation career resources to schools, including posters and materials to inspire the next generation.”

Importantly, ElevateHer also supports women already in the industry, acknowledging that many face unique challenges. “We create safe spaces where women can talk openly — about family life, mental health, wellbeing, and more. Our aim is not only to get women into aviation, but also to help them thrive and stay in it.”

ElevateHer membership is entirely free for life, removing financial barriers to participation. “We don’t believe in charging for information or community,” Katherine affirms. “Anyone can join via our website with just a name and email — and they instantly become part of a global network of aviation women.”

Looking ahead, Katherine remains committed to her mission. “My goal is to support and encourage more women and young people into aviation — whether to fly commercially, become an engineer, an air traffic controller, or simply to fly because it’s your passion.”

ElevateHer continues to stand as a beacon of inclusion, education, and empowerment — helping women find their wings in every corner of the aviation world.

To join the ElevateHer community or learn more, visit www.elevateher.co.uk.