MIAMI, FL- The South Florida chapter of Women in Aviation International (WAI) SoFLy officially launched this year, bringing together women from all facets of the aviation industry to network, support, and empower one another. The women from X-1FBO are now members of this chapter.

The chapter, known as SoFLY, held its inaugural launch last week at Fontainebleau Aviation at Miami-Opa Locka's Executive Airport. The event was attended by dozens of women from various aviation fields, including pilots, air traffic controllers, mechanics, and aviation business owners.

"Our goal is to create a supportive community of women in aviation where we can share our experiences, learn from each other, and advocate for the advancement of women in this industry," said SoFLY chapter president, Rachel Rodriguez.

The event featured keynote speaker Dr. Amy Hoover, a retired U.S. Air Force pilot and current professor of aviation at Miami Dade College. Dr. Hoover spoke about the challenges and opportunities for women in aviation and encouraged the attendees to continue to break down barriers in the industry. "We need to support each other and work together to create more opportunities for women in aviation," Dr. Hoover said. "I am thrilled to see this chapter launch and I look forward to seeing the amazing things that these women will accomplish."

SoFLY is part of the larger Women in Aviation International organization, which has over 14,000 members worldwide. The organization was founded in 1990 with the mission of promoting gender diversity in the aviation industry and providing resources and support for women pursuing careers in aviation.

“As a technology solution in the aviation industry, we pride ourselves in always supporting progress, this includes the advancement of women in our industry. You can clearly see the representation from within our company. From VPs, to Directors, coders and developers, we have many women leading at X-1,” said Monica Sarduy, VP of Sales & Marketing for X-1FBO.

The South Florida chapter is the latest addition to the organization and joins dozens of other local chapters around the world. SoFLY plans to hold regular meetings and events to provide networking and educational opportunities for its members.

"We are excited to be a part of the Women in Aviation International community and to have the opportunity to connect with other women who share our passion for aviation," Rodriguez said. "We look forward to working together to make a difference in our industry."

With the launch of SoFLY, women in South Florida's aviation industry have a new platform to support and empower each other. As the chapter grows and expands its reach, it is sure to have a significant impact on the region's aviation industry and beyond.

For more information visit https://soflywai.org/