Theresa Claiborne

Theresa Claiborne has been a pioneering force in the aviation industry for over four decades, renowned as the first African American female pilot in the United States Air Force. In 2017, she co-founded Sisters of the Skies, an organisation dedicated to supporting and empowering Black female pilots. As President, she has been instrumental in addressing the significant diversity gap in the professional pilot field, which sees Black female pilots comprising a mere 0.5% of the total. Her leadership and advocacy have created a supportive community and a platform for young women to pursue their aspirations in aviation and beyond.

In 1981, Theresa made history by becoming the first Black woman pilot in the USAF, a groundbreaking achievement that laid the foundation for her remarkable career. Her transition to a First Officer role at United Airlines in 1990 was another significant milestone, where she continually demonstrated excellence and resilience in a challenging and often exclusive industry.

Her accolades, including induction into the Organisation of Black Aerospace Professionals Hall of Fame and receiving the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Aviation Inspiration Award in 2024, underscore her exceptional contributions and impact. As a board member of the National WASP WWII Museum, Theresa continues to preserve and promote the legacy of pioneering women in aviation. Her perseverance and dedication are encapsulated in her extensive flight record, logging over 23,000 hours, including more than 3,000 military hours, and serving as an instructor pilot in the US Air Force Reserve.

Today, Theresa Claiborne captivates audiences with her motivational speeches, sharing her journey of overcoming adversity, shattering racial and gender barriers, and empowering others to achieve their goals through determination and hard work. Her journey is one of breaking barriers and setting new standards, not only in aviation but also as a powerful advocate for racial equality and female empowerment. As a keynote speaker, Theresa brings her wealth of experience and inspiring life story to audiences, motivating them to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles.