I.F. Metalworks will match every dollar donated up to our $5,000 goal!
This March, in celebration of Women’s History Month, the AIAM Foundation honors the remarkable contributions of women in Aerospace and STEM through our Women Who Soar campaign. From innovators and engineers to plant managers and business leaders, these trailblazers are shaping the industry’s future and inspiring the next generation.
Women represent one of the greatest opportunities to bridge the workforce shortage currently challenging the industry, with aerospace and STEM careers projected to grow significantly over the next decade. AIAM’s Women in Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (WAIAM) is at the forefront, advancing advocacy, education, and visibility for girls and women in aerospace.
Your donations support their future!
Thanks to a generous matching donation from I.F. Metalworks, every dollar donated will be matched up to our $5,000 goal! That means your contribution goes twice as far in supporting WAIAM’s impactful programs—mentorship opportunities, career exploration events, and educational initiatives designed to inspire the next generation of women in STEM and aerospace.
Make a gift of $50 or more, and we will send a personalized acknowledgment to the woman in your life you wish to honor, letting them know you think they are “plane awesome.”
Your donation supports WAIAM’s impactful programs, including mentorship opportunities, career exploration events, and educational initiatives designed to inspire the next generation of women in STEM and aerospace.
Your contribution:
WAIAM Co-Chair Karen Arondoski is hosting an opportunity for WAIAM members and those interested in getting involved this March. Mark your calendars for:
Date: March 19, 2024
Location: The Brewery, 39950 Hayes Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM (drop in anytime!)
RSVP is requested for planning purposes. You can contact Brittany Telander at Brittanyt@aiamnow.com.
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM/aviation?
I’ve always been passionate about science and math, and I enjoy using logic and problem-solving to tackle challenges. Non-destructive testing in aerospace allows me to do that every day, ensuring safety and reliability in critical components. With the shift in the automotive industry, I’m excited about the opportunities emerging in Michigan as more aerospace companies recognize the state’s potential for growth and innovation.
What achievements are you most proud of in your career?
I take pride in all my achievements, whether it’s earning new certifications or improving processes in my work. But what I’m most
proud of is the impact I’ve made—both in my daughter’s eyes and in a male-dominated industry. Knowing that she looks up to me and that I’m helping to create opportunities for future generations, especially young girls like her, means everything. I advocate for this industry every chance I get, and while I’ve been called a “nerd,” I see it as a badge of honor. Every day, I strive to make a difference and show kids, including my daughter, that this field is full of possibilities.
What are your hopes for the next generation of women in STEM and aviation?
I hope the next generation of women builds upon the foundation we’re creating. My wish for them is to be recognized for their knowledge and contributions without being minimized or held back. True progress in this field depends on diverse perspectives, and without that, we risk limiting the advancements that could be made.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in STEM/aviation?
What are your hopes for the next generation of women in STEM and aviation?
I hope the next generation of women in STEM and aviation will not only push the industry forward—making aerospace safer and more accessible—but also reduce barriers for those coming after them. Representation matters. The more women we see in leadership, engineering, and decision-making roles, the more young girls will envision themselves in these careers.
Additionally, I feel that with the emergence of new aerospace industries such as Advanced Air Mobility, this presents a unique opportunity for greater inclusion in the industry as a whole. These industries require fresh perspectives, and diversity will be key to their success. I’m optimistic that we’ll see more women leading in these spaces than in traditional aerospace, helping to redefine the industry’s future.
What achievements are you most proud of in your career?
One of my proudest achievements is leading Calumet Electronics in pioneering the on-shoring of organic substrate manufacturing in the U.S. This effort is not just about technology—it’s about economic security and positioning the U.S. as a leader in advanced packaging. Knowing that our work is filling a critical gap in the domestic supply chain and shaping the future of electronics is incredibly rewarding.
What challenges have you overcome as a woman in this industry?
STEM fields, particularly advanced manufacturing and microelectronics, have historically been male-dominated. Early on, I had to navigate environments where I was often one of the few women in the room. Earning credibility and recognition took persistence, but by focusing on technical excellence and leading with data, I’ve continued to find success. Finding strong mentors and building a network of supportive colleagues has been crucial in overcoming these challenges.
Why does giving back through volunteering or charitable donations matter to you when thinking about the next generation?
Investing in the next generation is essential for progress. Whether it’s mentoring young engineers, supporting STEM education, or advocating for policies that enable innovation, we must build a sustainable pipeline of talent.
285 students and 57 mentors from 57 cities around Michigan have been impacted or involved in WAIAM’s efforts to create advocacy, education, and visibility for women and girls in aerospace across Michigan.
