OTF April 2024 Message from the Executive Director

Friends, 

What started as a cheeky comment to an airline recruiter a decade ago has turned into a once-in-a-lifetime career… all thanks to a networking opportunity through the NGPA. As we saw in the late 2000s, then again during the pandemic, securing your dream career requires more than just a polished resume and impressive credentials. It takes strategic networking, insightful mentorship, and mastery of the interview process to be a standout in today’s job market. Fortunately for NGPA members, your membership opens doors to interview tools, networking, and other career resources! 

In 2020, NGPA’s mentorship program was launched, evolving into what is now known as “Ascend.” The Ascend Mentorship Program is designed to support the next generation of LGBTQ+ aviation professionals, general aviators, and community leaders. Any member of NGPA can sign up for a mentor or mentee. The program is for NGPA members seeking guidance on fulfilling their aviation aspirations or pursuing a career in aviation. This includes, but is not limited to: students, people new to aviation, pilots of all types, professionals looking to upgrade, and anyone looking to better connect with our LGBTQ+ aviation community. Join Ascend now by visiting: ngpa.org/mentorship.  

Later this month, we are thrilled to offer a complimentary webinar hosted by Cage Marshall, renowned experts in aviation career coaching, where members will receive expert advice on acing interviews and navigating the aviation industry’s unique landscape. Mark your calendars for Friday, April 26 | 12pm MT! This 60-minute presentation will help you polish up your resume and best present yourself at an upcoming interview. A 30-minute Q&A session will follow the presentation. Click here for more information and to sign up. 

Our in-person events, whether that be a national event or a local chapter, are where connections are forged. Be sure not to miss out on joining your NGPA family in Oshkosh at EAA’s AirVenture, or in Washington, D.C. for our annual Aviation Inclusion Summit. We're also looking forward to our first ever Student Summit this fall – featuring topics on career readiness, financial resources, and more. Stay current with the full year’s event lineup online at ngpa.org/events

 As I shared earlier, I owe my start in the industry to connections made through the NGPA. Let my personal experience motivate you to take advantage of all that is offered to NGPA members, and reaffirm our commitment as an organization to helping you along your career journey. 

With Pride, 

Justin