FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Andi Sims, VP of Marketing/Communications
International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA)
+1 205 213 7955
asims@hpmleadership.com
IAWA and Oliver Wyman Release Second Edition of “Lift Off to Leadership” Report, Highlighting Urgent Need for Diversity Amid Global Talent Shortage
LEESBURG, Virginia, USA — February 20, 2026 — The International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA), in collaboration with global management consulting firm Oliver Wyman, has released the second edition of its landmark study, "Lift Off to Leadership: Leadership Barriers for Women in Aerospace and Aviation."
The 2026 report, which updates the initial 2021 study, reveals that while slight gains have been made, a significant "perception gap" between genders and persistent microaggressions continue to hinder women’s advancement to executive ranks. With a worldwide talent shortage currently limiting industry innovation, the report underscores that systemic change is no longer just a DEI goal, but a business necessity for survival and growth.
Key Findings from the 2026 Edition:
- The Perception Gap: Women are half as likely as men to rate gender equality in their organization as "high," and twice as many women believe their companies place little to no priority on increasing female representation in leadership.
- Retention Risks: Nearly half of the women surveyed have considered leaving the industry. While men often cite compensation as a reason for departure, women point to implicit bias as a primary and growing factor.
- The "Double Standard" in Communication: 38% of women reported being called "too aggressive" during their careers, compared to only 15% of men, highlighting a persistent barrier in how leadership traits are evaluated.
- The Power of Sponsorship: 68% of women identify sponsorship as vital to career progression, yet the rate of leaders actively acting as sponsors remains stagnant at approximately 25%.
"The findings in this second edition confirm that talent is not the issue - opportunity and culture are," says Marita Lintener, IAWA President. "To manage risk in an increasingly complex environment, our industry must bridge this perception gap and move from passive support to active sponsorship."
Strategic Recommendations
The report outlines actionable steps for the industry to clear the path for high-performing women:
- For Organizations: Embed active sponsorship as a core leadership competency and address the daily "micro-experiences" that lead to female attrition.
- For Leaders: Move beyond mentoring to active sponsorship—making opportunities visible and advocating for women in rooms where decisions are made.
- For the Industry: Champion gender-neutral recruitment standards and fund proven leadership initiatives.
The full report, co-authored by Oksana Bardygula, Debra Santos, Marita Lintener, and Livia Hayes, is now available for download at iawa.org.
About IAWA
The International Aerospace Womens Association (IAWA) is a global aerospace association at the forefront of influence and advocacy. IAWA elevates women leaders who value career growth and connection — and who inspire the next generation. Through leadership development, research, and global engagement, IAWA connects and empowers women to shape the future of the aerospace industry. For more information, visit www.iawa.org or follow us on LinkedIn.
About Oliver Wyman
Oliver Wyman is a business of Marsh (NYSE: MRSH), a global leader in risk, reinsurance and capital, people and investments, and management consulting, advising clients in 130 countries. With annual revenue of $27 billion and more than 95,000 colleagues, Marsh helps build the confidence to thrive through the power of perspective. For more information, visit oliverwyman.com, or follow us on LinkedIn and X.
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