Imagine following your dreams and then one day waking up to realize you’ve unknowingly made history. That’s the story of Captain Theresa Clai𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e, a trailblazer in aviation history and a living legend.

Captain Clai𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e’s journey from a media communications student to becoming the first Black woman pilot in the U.S. Air Force is a story of resilience, determination, and breaking barriers. She earned her coveted silver wings in a challenging environment where only a few a few women had the opportunity to prove they belonged on the flight deck. Captain Clai𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e overcame all obstacles on her mission to become a pilot.

Tune in to this episode to hear Captain Clai𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e discuss the importance of representation in aviation, offer advice for others looking to forge a similar path, and share why she was glad she didn’t learn she made history until after successfully completing her training. Plus, as President of Sisters of the Skies, learn how she is helping young girls and women of color pursue careers in aviation through awareness, scholarships, and mentorship.

Share this episode with colleagues, friends, and family to help spread the message that success in aviation, or any field, can be earned through dedication and hard work.

If you feel inspired by this episode and want to know more about the s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and training it takes to get your pilot certificate, check out the FAA’s Pilots Portal for more information. Also, check out the variety of opportunities available to you in aerospace like internships and other career options.

Meet Our Guest:  

Theresa M. Clai𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e is a retired Boeing 787 (Dreamliner) captain at United Airlines with more than 20,000 flight hours accumulated throughout her career. She has flown as First Officer on the Boeing 737, 747, 757, and 767. She was also a Boeing 757 and 767 captain. Captain Clai𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e was 2nd Lieutenant and the first African American female pilot in the United States Air Force. She graduated from Undergraduate Pilot Training at Laughlin Air Force Base, on September 16, 1982. She also attended the University of California at Berkeley for Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps and has a degree in communication with a minor in journalism from California State University of Sacramento. Additionally, Captain Clai𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧e is the President of Sisters of the Skies, a nonprofit 501(3)(c) organization. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the Women AirForce Service Pilots (WASP) Museum in Sweetwater, Texas, and a board member of the Grand Dames of Aviation.