Women Build Planes Team interviewed on WDEV’s Vermont Viewpoint

Written By Beth White

Our day began with the excitement and anticipation of gathering the Modern Rosies for a memorable experience at WDEV's Vermont Viewpoint, in Waterbury, VT. As we carpooled to the station, we enjoyed the blessing of meaningful and fun conversations, reflecting on our mission and the impact of Habitat for Aviation. The drive was filled with laughter and enthusiasm, as we all looked forward to sharing our personal stories and the unique roles we each play within the organization. The atmosphere was one of unity and purpose, as we prepared to spread the message of the importance of women in aviation, both now and in the future.

Arriving at WDEV, we were met with a warm welcome from Bradley Ferland and the podcast mixer, and set up to share our passion for Habitat for Aviation. Each of us took a moment to speak about what the organization means to us, the work we are doing, and the tremendous need for more women to enter the aviation industry. It was a powerful opportunity to highlight not just the work we’ve done, but the future we envision—one where women play a central role in shaping the aviation landscape. The conversation flowed effortlessly, with each of us eager to share our insights and inspire others to get involved.

One of the most touching moments of the interview came when 10-year-old Axley, a bright and inspired member of our team, shared her own perspective. She had brought a notebook full of notes, filled with thoughts on what Habitat for Aviation means to her and why she believes women should pursue careers in aviation. Her passion and clarity of purpose were beyond her years, and her words resonated deeply with the listening audience. It was a beautiful reminder of the impact we are making and the potential we are unlocking for the next generation of young women in aviation. To listen to the whole podcast, click on our Media page and scroll down to the second section.

Beth White

Education Possibilitarian, Artist, Writer, Doula, Mentor, Aviatrix, Breast Cancer Survivor, Pilot-in-Command at Habitat for Aviation


In the spring of 2022, Beth White emerged from a 10-month battle with breast cancer with an idea: to create an apprenticeship program at Franklin County State Airport where youth work alongside adult mentors servicing conventional and electric aircraft. A pilot and airplane mechanic apprentice herself, and with family roots in the trades, Habitat for Aviation provides an taxilane for world learning opportunities for youth and adults who love to work with their hands to enter the FAA’s apprenticeship certification track. Each day she puts systems in place that make real John Dewey’s philosophy that we “learn best what we live” – a deep throughline from her time at Antioch University New England and as Regional Director for Big Picture Learning. Each learning experience is grounded in relationships, relevance, and practice. In October, 2023, Habitat for Aviation launched its Women Build Planes program, where an all-female team of Modern Day Rosies is building an airplane at Franklin County Airport, in northwestern Vermont, to show folks everywhere that despite the fact that only 2.6% of airplane mechanics are female, women BUILD, FLY, and FIX airplanes.

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