For countless women around the world, every day is a testament to strength. Whether it’s their courage to speak up against inequality or their determination to persevere in the face of adversity, women continue to break barriers. On March 8th, the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day, a global event that honors the achievements of women while reaffirming the importance of gender equality and women’s rights. This year, Canada’s theme for International Women’s Day is “Strength in Every Story,” a powerful reminder to amplify the voices of women and renew our commitment to creating opportunities for women and girls to unlock their full potential.
Advocacy in Action: 30 Years of Women’s Rights
The origins of International Women’s Day date back to the early labour movements in North America and Europe. These movements reflected a growing demand for women’s equal participation in society, which continues to resonate today.
This International Women’s Day is particularly important as 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action – the first global policy document promoting the rights of women and girls and considered to be the blueprint for progressing women’s rights. Before the declaration, only 12 countries had legal sanctions against domestic violence. Today, there are 1,583 legislative measures in place across 193 countries, and 112 countries with National Action Plans on women, peace and security.
Women at Work: Bridging the Gap
While International Women’s Day offers a moment to reflect on the progress made, it also serves as a call to action for the work still ahead. Women are also still seeking pay parity with men in Canada. On average, Canadian women earn 87 cents for every dollar earned by men, a discrepancy that is even more pronounced for women of color, Indigenous women, and women with disabilities. Closing the pay gap is critical to ensuring that women can achieve financial independence and security, empowering them to contribute to the economy and society fully.
Despite the increasing recognition of the need for gender diversity in the workforce, women are still critically underrepresented in many industries, such as aviation, technology, engineering, and leadership roles across various sectors. Canadian women represent approximately 7% of pilots, approximately 17 % of air traffic controllers, and approximately 2-3% of aircraft mechanical engineers. This underrepresentation not only limits opportunities for women but also stifles innovation and progress, as diverse perspectives are crucial for solving complex challenges and driving growth in every field.
The Future of Women: Empowering the Next Generation
At WCC, we understand that empowering women is not just about gender equality but about creating an aviation industry that thrives on innovation and inclusivity. As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let us reflect on the strides that have been made while acknowledging the work that remains and commit to turning these reflections into actions.
Whether in the workplace, in our communities, or in our personal lives, here are some ways we can actively support and uplift women:
Are you a passionate student striving for a career in aviation management, planning, marketing, or policy? The Canadian Airports Council (CAC), in partnership with InterVISTAS, is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the Gerry Bruno Scholarship—a prestigious $5,000 award designed to support the next generation of aviation
February 20th is World Day of Social Justice, dedicated to championing fairness, equality, and justice for all. This global observance reminds us of the importance of dismantling systemic barriers that hinder the economic, social, and political progress of marginalized peoples worldwide. The first Day of Social Justice was recognized
February marks Black History Month in Canada, a time to reflect on the rich legacy of Black Canadians. From the earliest Black settlers to today’s trailblazers, Black Canadians have made invaluable contributions to shaping the nation’s cultural and social fabric, and to its economic success. This year’s theme, Black
Sign Up For Our Newsletter!
"*" indicates required fields
Elevate Aviation is grateful to be headquartered within Treaty 6 Territory and within Region 4 (North Saskatchewan River Territory) of the Métis Nation. We acknowledge the land as the traditional territory of First Nations such as the Nehiyaw (Cree), Denesuliné (Dene), Nakota Sioux (Stoney), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) and Niitsitapi (Blackfoot). We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples for their ongoing guardianship and deep connection to the land across Turtle Island.
