WAI Central Florida

Women in Aviation International (WAI) Central Florida chapter is led by passionate advocates Aubrey Radigan and Maggie Broman, who are dedicated to increasing the number of women working in all areas of aerospace and aviation. Their chapter has rapidly grown from a handful of members to over 50 active participants, creating a vibrant community of support and mentorship.

About WAI Central Florida

WAI is an international organization dedicated to increasing women’s participation in all areas of aerospace and aviation—not just pilots, but engineers, mechanics, designers, air traffic controllers, and more. Since 1994, the organization has grown to over 150 chapters worldwide, with the Central Florida chapter being one of the most active and rapidly growing.

Leadership Team

Aubrey Radigan

Aubrey’s aviation journey began with a discovery flight that “lit a fire in her soul.” Originally pursuing a master’s degree as a teacher, she found her true calling in aviation. The welcoming and supportive atmosphere of WAI helped her overcome the intimidating feeling of entering what seemed like an “untouchable” industry and find her place in aerospace.

Maggie Broman

With no family background in aviation, Maggie took a chance on a discovery flight in high school and never looked back. After earning her aviation degree and ratings, she found a home in WAI’s Central Florida chapter, where she has become a leader and mentor, helping to guide the next generation of women in aviation.

Key Initiatives and Programs

Girls in Aviation Day

The chapter’s signature annual event at Orlando Executive Airport draws hundreds of attendees for hands-on activities, static displays, guest speakers, and mentorship opportunities. The event is free and designed to show young girls that aviation careers are within their reach.

• 2025 Event: September 20, 2025, at Orlando Executive Airport’s East Ramp (GOAA Building)
• Focus: Inspiring the next generation through interactive experiences and mentorship

Community Partnerships

WAI Central Florida actively collaborates with:

• Local flight schools seeking to increase female enrollment
• High school aviation clubs
• Community organizations focused on STEM education
• Aerospace companies and professionals

Areas of Impact

• Mentorship: Creating a culture where successful women reach back to pull others up
• Education: Exposing members to diverse aviation careers beyond piloting
• Networking: Building connections across the aerospace industry
• Scholarships: Supporting women pursuing aviation education and training
• Community Outreach: Breaking down barriers and misconceptions about aviation careers

Diversity and Inclusion Focus

The chapter emphasizes that aviation offers opportunities for people with diverse backgrounds and skills:

• Rocket design and engineering
• Interior aircraft design
• Aircraft detailing and maintenance
• Air traffic control
• NASA operations and support
• Aviation business and management

Partnership Opportunities

Flight schools and aviation businesses can partner with WAI Central Florida through:

• Guest speaking opportunities
• Internship and job shadowing programs
• Event sponsorship (particularly Girls in Aviation Day)
• Mentorship program support
• Collaborative community outreach

Mission and Values

WAI Central Florida operates on the principle that aviation should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or experience level. They create a welcoming environment where women can explore aviation careers, receive mentorship, and build lasting professional relationships.

The chapter’s core belief is captured in their mentorship philosophy: “As you climb the aviation ladder, you always reach back and pull others up with you.” This spirit of support and encouragement helps women not only enter aviation but thrive and become leaders in their respective fields.

Getting Involved

• Website: wai-cfl.org
• Membership: Options available for students, professionals, and families
• Events: Monthly chapter meetings and special events throughout the year
• Volunteering: Opportunities to support Girls in Aviation Day and other outreach initiatives

The Central Florida chapter of Women in Aviation International continues to break barriers and create pathways for women to succeed in aerospace and aviation careers, building a stronger and more diverse industry for the future.