Marci Veronie Honored With WAI Board Chair’s Award of Excellence

Women in Aviation International (WAI) announced that Marci Veronie, an executive at Avemco Insurance Company, was awarded the inaugural Board Chair’s Award of Excellence during the organization’s international conference in March.

The BCAE is the highest honor bestowed by the WAI board of directors and is presented only when an individual’s contributions rise to a level deemed truly extraordinary. The award recognizes the individual’s leadership, exceptional service, collaboration, and sustained advancement of WAI’s mission.

“As we shaped the vision for this award, one name kept rising to the top,” said Board Chair Michaela Lucas. “Marci Veronie.”

About Veronie

Veronie currently serves as senior vice president at Avemco Insurance Company, which she joined in 1986. She oversees Avemco’s underwriting and marketing divisions and is widely recognized and sought out for her expertise in aviation insurance and loss prevention education.

A WAI member since 2001, she previously served as chair of the board of directors and, during a critical period of organizational transition, stepped in as acting president.

Under her leadership, WAI strengthened partnerships across the aviation community, building deeper connections with fellow industry groups.

Known for a leadership style rooted in service, authenticity, and genuine connection, she earned the unanimous support of the WAI board.

“Marci embodies everything Women in Aviation stands for,” Lucas said. “She leads with conviction, vision, and a generosity of spirit that inspires everyone who knows her. Her commitment to mentoring and opening doors for women in aviation isn’t just professional—it’s personal.”

Veronie is also widely known as a mentor and advocate, committed to developing the next generation of aviation professionals. Her contributions to the broader industry have been recognized with honors including the Tokio Marine Good Company Award and a nomination for the Geneva Association’s Women in Insurance Award.

“There wasn’t one particular achievement that made Marci deserving of this award,” Lucas concluded. “She is the whole package—inclusive, courageous, service‑oriented, and a champion of others.”

“It was an honor to receive the Board Chair’s Award of Excellence at the WAI Conference this year,” Veronie told FLYING. “WAI has played such a meaningful role in my career, and I’m grateful to be part of an organization that continues to empower, support, and open doors for the next generation.”

Veronie said she was surprised to learn she was the recipient of the award. 

“The WAI board tricked me into attending a virtual meeting,” she joked, “and then told me they created the award and I was the inaugural recipient. I was so surprised and honored.”

Well-known for her mentoring, Veronie offered words of wisdom for women who look to her for inspiration and guidance.

“Learn everything you can about your craft,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to speak up, listen to your gut, be kind, and when you make it to the table, save a seat and be the shoulders for the women behind you.”