Leading the Fight Against Wildfires: Jennifer Draughon, President of Neptune Aviation | On Air S2E6

Leading the Fight Against Wildfires: Jennifer Draughon, President of Neptune Aviation | On Air S2E6

Author: Women in Aviation International March 18, 2026 Duration: 31:10

Meet Jennifer Draughon, she leads a dynamic team of aerial firefighting experts as president of Neptune Aviation. She began her aviation career at Boeing, where she worked at the flight-testing field in quality assurance. With more than 25 years of industry experience, Jennifer is recognized as a leader in aerial wildland firefighting. Under her leadership, Neptune is innovating in the rapidly evolving aerial firefighting landscape, and she is transforming Neptune by cultivating a working environment of trust, by investing in cutting edge technology, and by championing operational and safety excellence. Jennifer is committed to upholding Neptune’s company values of a firm handshake, a resilient spirit, and embracing family. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Montana, a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Washington, and is CPA certified.


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There's a whole world above the clouds, and the voices shaping it are more diverse than ever. The WAI On Air Podcast, from Women in Aviation International, opens the hangar doors and the boardroom doors to the people making it happen. This isn't just about the roar of engines; it's about the conversations, the problem-solving, and the personal journeys that define modern flight. You'll hear directly from pilots navigating long-haul routes, engineers designing the next generation of aircraft, and air traffic controllers managing the complex ballet of the skies. The podcast also features insights from aerospace executives and the innovators pushing technology forward. Each episode is a candid look at the challenges and triumphs experienced by women, and their allies, across every specialty. Tune in for authentic stories that go beyond the resume, offering a genuine sense of the community and the passion that fuels this dynamic industry. Whether you're a seasoned aviation professional or simply fascinated by flight, this series connects you to the human element that keeps our world moving.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 24

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