Summer McLaughlin didn't know the college she was attending had one of the top aviation programs in the country. [Courtesy: McLaughlin family]
Key Takeaways:
Summer McLaughlin pivoted her career aspiration from flight attendant to commercial pilot after her father's suggestion and inspiration from her private pilot mother.
She is currently training at Oklahoma State University's aviation program, where she observes a significant male dominance among students and faculty.
Despite some academic challenges, Summer is passionate about flying, cherishes the views from the cockpit, and aims to become a commercial pilot for versatile operations after gaining experience as a flight instructor.
As Summer McLaughlin waited to board a commercial flight with her family, she saw the crew board the airplane and thought about how their careers allowed them to travel. She commented to her father, “Maybe I could become a flight attendant.”
Summer McLaughlin
His (very wise) response changed her career focus. He said, “Maybe you could fly the plane.”
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Ellen is not only an avid pilot, she’s also an internationally recognized speaker and authority on gender diversity and inclusion for women working in non-traditional careers in transportation. Have a story Ellen should tell? You can send her ideas at editorial@flying.media.
