Shannon Airport to host landmark event to celebrate International Women's Day

To celebrate International Women’s Day, The Shannon Airport Group has announced it will host a landmark networking event, later this week.

The event, being hosted in collaboration with the Women in Aviation Mid-West Region, is expected to bring together over 100 industry leaders and professionals to discuss and promote gender equality and diversity in aviation.

Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, will open the event, highlighting the importance of gender equality, diversity and inclusion in the aviation sector.

"As we approach International Women's Day, it's the perfect time to celebrate the incredible women who inspire us daily—our colleagues, mentors, and friends," said Considine. "Our commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion in aviation is unwavering. This panel discussion is a crucial step towards fostering an inclusive culture and ensuring equal opportunities for all in the aviation industry," she said.

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The event, which takes place at the Viewing Gallery, Shannon Airport, on Thursday, will feature a panel discussion moderated by Maria Frost from Engine Lease Finance Corporation in Shannon.

Other speakers will include Shauna Kelly from Falko, Mary Bradford, formerly of GPA/GECAS and Don Salmon from Shannon Technical Services.

The panel will address a range of topics, from the importance of equal rights advocacy in aviation to the current state of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry.

Rita Meehan, from the Women in Aviation Mid-West Region Founding Committee, has expressed her excitement ahead the event: "We are thrilled to host this event at Shannon Airport. The support from The Shannon Airport Group has been instrumental in making this possible. We look forward to insightful discussions and meaningful networking that will drive positive change in the aviation sector."

The panel will explore key questions such as the challenges of equal rights advocacy in aviation, historical milestones that have shaped equal rights in the industry, and initiatives currently in place to ensure diverse hiring and equal opportunities. They will also discuss how airlines and aviation organisations can foster a more inclusive culture for underrepresented groups, the role of mentorship, and the importance of policies and legal frameworks to protect equal rights.

The event promises to be a significant opportunity for women and minorities in aviation to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. It will also provide a platform for discussing innovative approaches to creating a more inclusive future in aviation and ensuring long-term progress in equality and diversity.

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