Purpose-Driven Leadership: Lynda Coffman on DEI, Workforce, and the Future of Aviation

Purpose-Driven Leadership: Lynda Coffman on DEI, Workforce, and the Future of Aviation

Author: Shaesta Waiz, Michael Wildes September 4, 2025 Duration: 42:50
In this episode, host Shaesta Waiz speaks with Lynda Coffman—CEO of Women in Aviation International, former United Airlines executive, and Northwestern adjunct professor— about sustaining a qualified aviation workforce while navigating the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Lynda shares her journey from being the first female engineer in United’s powerplant group to leading airport operations across 63 stations and founding United Ground Express. She reflects on how DEI has been misunderstood, why access is not about lowering standards, and how systemic, purpose-driven action strengthens aviation’s safety and growth. They discuss why shrinking the pipeline hurts everyone, how leaders can challenge unconscious bias in real time, and why support networks and “personal boards of directors” are essential for women entering aviation today. Lynda closes with advice to stay rooted in passion, build strong communities, and never let others decide what you are capable of. Chapter Breakdown 00:00 | Why Workforce Strength Depends on Access01:49 | Why This Season: DEI Rollback in Aviation06:18 | Lynda’s Early Career at United Airlines10:26 | From Engineering to Executive Leadership14:29 | DEI as Access, Not Lowered Standards17:06 | Purpose-Driven Action in Corporate Strategy20:49 | Building Diverse Candidate Slates23:32 | Leadership, Culture, and Challenging Bias28:37 | Responding to “Lowering Standards” Narrative31:34 | Pilot Shortages, Economics, and Safety Risks35:11 | Advice for Young Women in Aviation38:09 | Building Sisterhood and Support Networks39:47 | Leading with Passion for Industry and Members Follow Lynda Coffman Website: Women in Aviation InternationalLinkedIn: ⁠Lynda Coffman⁠ Follow Shaesta Waiz Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ shaestawaiz.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠ Shaesta Waiz⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠ @shaesta.waiz⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠ @shaestawaiz⁠⁠ Shaesta Waiz on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube (Aviate Platform)⁠⁠⁠⁠ Production, Distribution, and Marketing By Massif Studio & Production & The Tallawah Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website:⁠⁠www.massifsp.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠ Massif Studio & Production⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.TallawahWorldwide.com⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Tallawah Group⁠⁠⁠⁠ For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email ⁠⁠⁠hello@MassifKroo.com⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In each episode of AVIATE with Shaesta, host Shaesta Waiz-herself recognized as the youngest woman to fly solo around the world-creates a unique space for dialogue. She is joined by co-host Michael Wildes as they connect with a remarkable roster of female aviators. These aren't just interviews; they are honest, meandering conversations with trailblazers, record-setters, mothers, adventurers, and entrepreneurs. Together, they explore the nuanced realities of navigating a field where women are still pioneers. The discussions naturally extend beyond the cockpit, touching on broader themes of society, culture, and the complex relationships and personal dramas that shape these high-flying lives, all while acknowledging the technology that makes their journeys possible. You’ll hear stories of triumph and setback, the balance of personal ambition with family life, and the sheer adventure of viewing the world from above. This podcast goes deeper than the typical aviation narrative, offering a genuine look at the community, challenges, and profound joys that define these women's experiences. Tune in for a series that feels more like a series of intimate, global conversations than a formal show, all guided by Shaesta’s unique perspective and heartfelt curiosity.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 94

AVIATE with Shaesta
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