Piedmont Stands with Pride: Embracing Diversity in Aviation with the National Gay Pilots Association

This Pride season we want to highlight the positive impact Piedmont has made on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) Community.  One long standing relationship Piedmont has had is with the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA). By sponsoring and collaborating with the NGPA, Piedmont showcases its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and the benefits of a diverse workforce.

The National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion and equal opportunity within the aviation industry. Founded in 1990, the NGPA serves as a community network for LGBTQ+ pilots, aviation professionals, and enthusiasts. The organization’s primary mission is to foster a sense of belonging and community for LGBTQ+ individuals within aviation.

NGPA provides a host of resources and initiatives to support its members. These include networking opportunities, mentorship programs, career development resources, and scholarships. The organization also organizes social events, aviation conferences, and educational workshops to promote camaraderie and professional growth within the LGBTQ+ aviation community. Piedmont has had the privilege to support many of these endeavors since 2016 when our official sponsorship kicked off its inaugural year.

In 2023, Piedmont is sponsoring events and multiple scholarships to continue providing access to the aviation industry. In May, Piedmont was a key sponsor of the NGPA Transgender Social. This is an annual event for Trans, Non-binary, and Gender-diverse members, as well as their partners. Over the three days, members were able to network, learn more about Piedmont’s opportunities and connect over their love for aviation. Removing financial barriers is a large part of Piedmont’s investment in communities from a host of backgrounds and identities. Through our sponsorship of NGPA we offer three $5,000 scholarships: Instrument Rating Scholarship, Aviation Management Scholarship, and Aviation Maintenance Technician Scholarship. These scholarships are helping to provide opportunity to new members of the aviation community and building the next generation of aviation professionals.

Piedmont is proud to continue our partnerships with multiple professional and community organizations that help highlight the specific needs and challenges that face each community. Our support of the National Gay Pilots Association is but one way we are making a positive impact on the world of aviation and the bright future of our airline.

Want to join the National Gay Pilot’s Association? Check out their membership levels here.