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Community Corner

Girl Scouts of Nassau County and American Airlines Inspire Future Generation of Women in Aviation

More than 150 Girl Scouts learn about careers in aviation at LaGuardia Airport

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Local Girl Scout poses proudly in front of an American Airlines airplane.

Girl Scouts of Nassau County recently partnered with American Airlines for the fourth consecutive year to give more than 150 Girl Scouts a unique opportunity to learn about aviation careers from the women who are currently leading in those roles. From pilots and mechanics to flight attendants and other aviation leaders, this serves as a first-hand experience that opens the girls’ minds to the many possibilities available to them. The girls receive insight on how to pursue these career pathways and learn that the sky is the limit. This program is part of the Girl Scouts of Nassau County's ongoing mission to expose Girl Scouts to science and technology-related careers and connect them with inspirational role models to help empower them as they explore future careers.

“There's something powerful about seeing someone doing a job you may have never imagined for yourself and realizing you can do it, too,” said Rande Bynum, CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County. “Through our partnership with American Airlines, girls have the opportunity to meet women breaking barriers in aviation, explore the many career paths available, and hear their stories. Experiences like this encourage girls to be curious, build confidence, and envision themselves in roles they may never have considered, letting them know that no career path is out of reach.”

More than 150 Girl Scouts from across Nassau County, Suffolk County, New York City, Connecticut, Massachusetts and as far as Alabama gathered at LaGuardia Airport (LGA), boarded an aircraft , taxied along the airfield, and learned about the science of flight. They spoke directly with women working in the industry about their professional journeys and career paths. This is the fourth-year Girl Scouts of Nassau County has partnered with American Airlines to provide young girls the opportunity to explore careers in fields they may not normally experience. Partnerships like these are critical in helping fulfill Girl Scouts of Nassau County’s mission of building girls with courage, confidence and character that make the world a better place.

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“American Airlines takes pride in offering unique exposure to careers in aviation as well as mentorship that empowers the next generation,” said Yu Lee, American Airlines Managing Director of LGA Operations. “The lessons learned and the advice shared is invaluable for these young girls who are chasing their dreams that one day may lead them to becoming a part of our airline’s top talent.”

This program reflects Girl Scouts of Nassau County’s commitment to introducing girls to inspiring role models and providing meaningful opportunities to explore a wide range of career paths and possibilities for their futures.

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“I learned to soar with American Airlines by meeting with pilots and new Girl Scouts,” said Lola Campbell, a local Girl Scout from West Hempstead. “I learned about how to reach for my dreams and stay positive. I felt happy because I got to go on the plane and do fun activities. It was epic and I can’t wait to do it again next year!”

For more information about Girl Scouts of Nassau County, upcoming programs, and how to get involved, visit www.gsnc.org.

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