At our first competition in 2018, we reached out to five female aircraft maintenance engineers from across Canada, inviting them to enter the largest International skills competition in the world, the MRO Americas AMC Competition. At that time, there were only three all-women teams at the event.
In a field where women are significantly underrepresented—only 3% of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) are women, Elevate Aviation supports an all-woman team for the AME competitions each year to empower women. By showcasing the skills and capabilities of female AMEs on a national stage, we aim to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and inspire the next generation of women to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace. This initiative not only highlights the importance of diversity in the industry but also reinforces our commitment to creating equal opportunities for women in all aspects of aviation
Elevate Aviation’s team members will compete in the following aircraft maintenance competitions:
Where: Toronto, Ontario
When: November 11 to 14, 2025
Where: Edmonton, Alberta
When: May 5 to 6, 2026
As an Elevate Aviation AME competition team member you will have opportunities throughout the year to share your experience and knowledge to help inspire others into aircraft maintenance careers. From speaking at the Cross Country Tour to engaging with Canada’s youth at career fairs, to becoming a mentor through our mentorship program – you will be an important part of our mission.
2018 – Aerospace Maintenance Competition (MRO America)
2021 – Ontario AME Association Skills Competition
2022 – Aerospace Maintenance Competition (MRO America)
2023 – Central AME Association Skills Competition
2023 – Aerospace Maintenance Competition (MRO America)
2023 – Ontario AME Association Skills Competition
2023 – Girls in Aviation Day Alberta Mini-Skills Competition
2024 – Aerospace Maintenance Competition (MRO America)
2024 – Alberta Aviation Conference Skills Competition
2024 – Ontario Aircraft Maintenance Skills Competition
2025 – Aerospace Maintenance Competition (MRO America)
2025 – Alberta Aviation Conference Skills Competition
1st Place – 2021 Ontario Skills Competition
3rd Place – 2021 Ontario Skills Competition
Top Student Score – 2021 Ontario Skills Competition
Charles Taylor Professionalism Award – 2022 Aerospace Maintenance Competition
1st Place – 2023 Central AME Association Skills Competition
3rd Place General Aviation – 2023 Aerospace Maintenance Competition
Top Student Score – 2023 Ontario Skills Competition
2nd Place – 2024 Alberta Aviation Council Skills Competition
Sophie graduated from the Aircraft Maintenance program at École Nationale d’Aérotechnique (ÉNA) in 2021 and has been a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (M2) since 2024.
In addition to her academic and professional achievements, Sophie is a strong advocate for health awareness, especially concerning Crohn’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis—conditions she has managed with great perseverance since 2016. Recognized for her resilience, creativity, and determination, Sophie was awarded the SWAAC Student Leadership Award in 2021 for her outstanding involvement and leadership in both school and community. Now certified and active in the aerospace industry, she continues to pursue her passion.
Cpl Tasha Martin is an Aircraft Structures Technician (ACS) serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force at 8 Wing Trenton. She began her career in 2019 and completed her trade training in 2022. Her initial operational experience was with 436(T) Squadron on the CC-130J Hercules as part of an On-the-Job Employment (OJE) from 2019 to 2021. Currently posted to the Aerospace and Telecommunications Engineering Support Squadron (ATESS), she specializes in manufacturing prototype repairs and structural modifications for multiple aircraft fleets across the RCAF. Cpl Martin holds Maintenance Release (Level A) and Manufacturing Inspection qualifications across all core ACS functions. In addition to her technical role, she serves as the Apprentice Training Coordinator for the ATESS Metal Shop, where she mentors and oversees the development of new ACS technicians. Dedicated to excellence in both skill and leadership, she continues to contribute to the advancement of structural maintenance within the CAF.
Jennifer fell in love with aviation after an unexpected stint as a Flight Attendant in 2005. Inspired by passionate Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) she met during that time, she went on to obtain her AME Diploma at NSCC. After graduating in 2010, she began her career in aircraft maintenance in Norman Wells, NT, with North Wright Airways—quite literally getting her feet wet. She then spent the next decade with WestJet Airlines in Edmonton (YEG), where, holding a Boeing 737 ACA, she worked line maintenance, phase checks, and provided outbase coverage across western Canada. Currently, Jennifer is in her fourth year with Morningstar Air Express in Maintenance Operations Control, holding a Boeing 757 ACA and supporting FedEx Canada.
Lina is an AME apprentice at Porter Airlines, based in YOW. Her love for aircraft brought her to the airport, where she has held roles as traffic security, ramp agent, and aircraft material handler before becoming an apprentice AME. Her favourite part of the job is trying new things, as every task is a learning experience that feels like solving a puzzle.
Naampreet is an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) diploma student at Red River College Polytechnic – Stevenson Campus, is set to graduate in March 2026. Naampreet is currently gaining real-world experience as a part-time apprentice at Perimeter Aviation, and this summer, she is expanding her skills through a rotary-wing internship with Canadian Helicopters at Southport. She is one of the very few students in her college actively working in live maintenance while studying, and she has already earned multiple awards and scholarships, including those from the Central AME Association (CAMEA), Manitoba 99s, Princess Auto Foundation, and Southport Aerospace. Naampreet is on a mission to prove that women belong in every corner of aviation maintenance. She hopes her journey moves other young women to take up space in this industry—fearlessly, skillfully, and unapologetically.
Dina is responsible for managing Elevate Aviation’s Community Engagement, including overseeing the Aircraft Maintenance Competitions Team each year.
Dina has been an Air Traffic Controller for over 25 years and loves every minute of it. She is a passionate advocate for aviation education and outreach, devoting much of her time to engaging in the aviation community. Dina also serves as President of Alberta Air Tours, a non-profit organization that aims to inform and educate communities across the province and to inspire a new generation of aviation enthusiasts. Though born in Edmonton, her family moved to Kikino Métis settlement where she spent her youth. Through her role at Elevate Aviation, Dina continues to work with communities to introduce careers in aviation. From airshows to educational workshops, to mentoring others entering a career in aviation, she ensures the continued growth of a thriving aviation community.
Caylen is responsible for organizing, leading, and attending the Aircraft Maintenance Competitions for Elevate Aviation and, as an AME herself, competes on the team events as needed.
Caylen hails from Halifax, Nova Scotia, and brings over a decade of experience as an Aviation Systems Technician with the Royal Canadian Air Force. While stationed in Shearwater, NS, she worked extensively on both the Sea King and Cyclone helicopters in both hangar and shipboard environments. Her technical expertise is rooted in mechanical systems, with a particular focus on main transmissions, rotor heads, and track and balance. Driven by a passion for hands-on mechanical work, Caylen later served as a Quality Manager in Greenwood, NS, where she conducted audits and ensured operational safety and compliance with regulations. Currently, she serves as the Training Coordinator in the Employment Training Office for 405 Squadron. In this role, she oversees personnel development, career progression, and supports overall operational readiness. She also acts as a Human Performance in Aviation representative, leading initiatives that promote cognitive, mental, and physical wellness across her teams. Beyond her military duties, Caylen is deeply committed to giving back. She has volunteered with Elevate for the past three years, serving as a mentor and speaking at events during the organization’s cross-country tour. She also represents the Royal Canadian Air Force as an official RCAF Ambassador, appearing in recruiting campaigns for the Canadian Armed Forces. In addition to her professional and volunteer roles, Caylen is entering her third year of the Bachelor of Business Administration program at Acadia University. Outside of work and studies, she enjoys spending quality time with her two daughters, travelling with her husband, Shane, and embracing new opportunities to learn and grow.
Successful applicants will be announced end of July.
Join us for Elevate Aviation’s 10th Anniversary Inspire Gala!
October 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Aurora Jet Partners Hangar at Edmonton International Airport
Don’t miss this cocktail-style fundraiser featuring light appetizers, entertainment, auctions, raffles, and networking. Celebrate and be inspired by eight trailblazing women in aviation.
