Podcast: Winning the ‘war on talent’

written by Robyn Tongol | January 7, 2026

With just 5.1 per cent of roles in air traffic controllers, pilots and licensed aircraft maintenance held by women – and only 4 per cent globally for pilots – the pace of change towards gender parity in aviation is still glacial.

Though Australia’s figures are a little higher, even here we still have a long way to go, and with the aviation industry crying out for talent, it’s clear that we need to make a big push for a more diverse workforce.

Leidos Australia has recently hit its goal of 20 per cent female pilots, with the aerospace firm driving hard towards a more inclusive corporate culture at the same time.

On this week’s Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake Nelson talks to Jesse Young from Leidos and Kristen Raby of Aviation/Aerospace Australia on how the industry can learn from Leidos’ example, and how to break down the barriers to a more diverse workforce.

 
 

You can listen to the episode on your device by clicking here. You can also listen to the audio-only version by using the podcast player below.

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