Every few years, Boeing releases a report forecasting the number of professionals that the aviation industry will need in the coming years, from pilots and maintenance technicians to cabin crew.

For an ongoing research project, I’ve been interviewing African American women in a variety of positions in the aviation industry about the challenges pursuing a successful career in the field.

Beyond tokenism

In the various months devoted to recognizing historically marginalized groups such as women, African Americans and LBGTQ people, the aviation industry joins the chorus of group that use the calendar to highlight historic diversity firsts.

For example, you’ll often see articles in February showcasing the “first African American pilot” or the “first all LGBTQ flight crew.”

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First African-American Chief Pilot At Major Airlines Retires

South Africa’s First Black Female Pilot Is Helping Other Women Reach New Heights