Build Runways for Women’s Careers in Aviation and Aerospace

The Elevate Initiative

The Elevate Initiative was created to address the significant gender disparities in the aviation and aerospace industries. With women occupying less than 6% of leadership roles and only 25% of total positions, the need for change is clear. The Elevate Initiative highlights the critical role of leaders, primarily male, in championing the advancement of women, while also focusing on the specific strategies that women must employ to not only survive but thrive in these male-dominated sectors. Increasing female representation isn’t just a women’s issue—it’s a leadership, fairness, and business imperative.

Our Story

The Elevate Initiative was founded to address the significant gender disparities in the aviation and aerospace industries. Our mission is to empower executives with the knowledge and strategies needed to increase female representation.

Our Vision

We envision a future where the aviation and aerospace industries are welcoming, encouraging, and supportive of women, reflecting the true potential of all its members. Elevate is committed to driving this change and making a lasting impact.

Our Approach

The Elevate Initiative was founded to address the significant gender disparities in the aviation and aerospace industries. Our mission is to empower executives with the knowledge and strategies needed to increase female representation.

Strengthen Your Leadership Team

Discover the impact we create in the aviation and aerospace industries, cultivating a workplace of respect and belonging.

  • Expert guidance on developing and implementing effective strategies for women’s engagement, mentorship programs, and supportive policies.

  • Hands-on sessions designed to tackle unconscious bias, refine leadership skills for a balanced team environment, and foster a supportive corporate culture.

  • One-on-one coaching sessions designed to equip women with strategies for successfully navigating a career in a male-dominated industry.

  • Powerful presentations that explore women’s experiences and offer strategies for creating supportive environments.

  • On-demand training modules on advancing women’s roles and creating welcoming workplaces, accessible anytime and anywhere.

  • Access our collection of white papers, e-books, and articles that provide comprehensive analysis and best practices for promoting an increase in female representation in our industries.

Meet Our Founder

Dana Kirchmar, with over 35 years in aviation and aerospace and a passion for women in STEM/STEAM education and careers, leads Elevate. Her extensive experience and dedication are the driving forces behind our mission.

AS FEATURED IN

Elevate Executive Exchange

  • The Profitability Pipeline: How Gender-Diverse Leadership Drives the Bottom Line

    Wednesday, June 25, 2025

    10:00 AM 11:00 AM

    Despite decades of data showing that gender-diverse teams and leadership drive stronger business outcomes, many companies in aviation and aerospace still struggle to move the needle. This Exchange will focus on how diverse leadership is not a “nice to have,” but a measurable advantage—and how executives can unlock that profitability pipeline.

Insights