International Women’s Day: Girls in Aviation

In honour of International Women’s Day on Mar. 8, 2026, STARS recognizes the incredible women in aviation at the organization, and their involvement in supporting girls interested in the field.

In fall 2025, Women in Aviation International hosted a Winnipeg Girls in Aviation Day event, which the STARS flight crew has been a long-standing part of, with their own booth.

“We try to come out every year to participate in the event and talk to young girls about the possibilities of a career in the aviation industry,” said Alexandra Andersen, a STARS flight paramedic who attended this year’s event. “The girls asked thoughtful questions, many learning about STARS for the very first time.”

The event is designed to inspire girls ages 8 to 17 to explore aviation careers. From aerospace engineering and air traffic control to airport operations, airline dispatch, and recreational flying, participants were encouraged to envision their future in the skies.

More than 100 girls and their parents took part, rotating through stations featuring guest speakers, interactive activities, and Q&A sessions with professionals from the industry. Each stop was designed to spark curiosity and open doors to the male-dominated field.

According to Women in Aviation International, women pilots make up only 10.8 per cent of all pilots.

“STARS was proud to not only host a station that showcased the work we do, but to connect with the next generation of aviation leaders,” said Justine Subchak, a STARS flight nurse who attended the day’s events. “One particularly moving moment came when a young participant shared that STARS had saved her family member’s life — an unforgettable reminder of why our mission matters.”

Both Andersen and Subchak look forward to returning next year.

This International Women’s Day and beyond, STARS is proud to honour the women who propel STARS’ mission forward. By attending events like this, women in aviation are shaping a future where the skies are open to all.