ORIGINAL: GrrlsFly!

I'm a woman flier! I wanted to be an F-16 fighter pilot more than anything when I was a little girl...started learning Morse code at a very young age (my grandfather and uncle were pilots and let me borrow some audio tapes).

I found out a little later that I had inner ear problems and would never be a fighter pilot. It was crushing. I was strong in music and english and analytical skills in school and not as confident in mechanics so I never explored science or engineering during teen years despite an interest in it. In my early twenties I was busy in school and for some reason, very concerned with gender issues and being "feminine". Now in my late 20's, I don't give a "d*mn about how sexy something is and finally just looked up a local club, bought the expensive nitro trainer set up, and jumped in. Now, funny enough, all I can think about is flight dynamics, engines, etc.. and think this stuff is "sexy" I'm the only woman in my club, and all the guys were surprised when I showed up at a club meeting with an application and a ready to fly Hobbistar trainer, but also very encouraging, helpful, and welcoming. I've heard a good number of the men express regret that their wives don't show an interest in the hobby. Great group of guys.

I'm still shaky about all the mechanics and craftsmanship I have to learn, especially since recently getting into electrics, but I'll do it and know I'll understand it better with practice.

I don't know why more women aren't into it. I'm sure there's a myriad of reasons. But I do think it's a myth that girls don't like science and engineering, including flight.