The aviation industry offers significant opportunities for global connection and career advancement, yet gender diversity remains a challenge. Kurt A.G. Menal, Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority Ltd, highlights the critical need for Caribbean women to enter aviation fields.

Menal stresses the importance of breaking down societal stereotypes, stating, “The aviation industry has historically been male-dominated, with outdated views discouraging young women from considering careers in piloting, engineering, air traffic control, and airport management.” He emphasises that promoting the inclusion of Caribbean women in aviation not only challenges these stereotypes but also aligns with global movements advocating for gender equality in all sectors.

As the demand for skilled workers in aviation continues to grow, Menal asserts that Caribbean women can play a pivotal role. He notes, “The aviation industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. By encouraging more women to pursue aviation careers, we can help fill the skills gap and create a workforce that better reflects society as a whole.”

Economic empowerment is another strong argument for encouraging women to join the industry. Menal explains, “The aviation sector offers well-paid, stable jobs, which can empower women to achieve financial independence and support their families.”

Moreover, Menal underscores the positive impact of representation on future generations: “When women succeed in male-dominated industries, they create a ripple effect. A Caribbean woman who becomes a pilot can inspire other girls to consider careers in aerospace, continuing the cycle of empowerment.”

He also highlights the importance of diversity in fostering innovation: “Diverse teams are better at problem-solving and generating creative ideas. In aviation, this is crucial for safety and efficiency.”

Menal advocates for increased support from governments and institutions to make aviation careers more accessible to Caribbean women, stating, “Governments and aviation organisations need to work together to remove barriers to entry and provide opportunities for women, such as scholarships, mentorship programmes, and internships.”

In conclusion, Menal asserts that the future of Caribbean aviation depends on a diverse and inclusive workforce: “The Caribbean region has a rich cultural heritage, and its women possess the resilience and leadership skills needed to thrive in aviation. It’s time to recognise this untapped potential.”

For the first time, the British Virgin Islands will play host to the CARILEC Lineworkers Rodeo, Symposium and Field Safety Training, an annual event that brings together electrical lineworkers from across the Caribbean.

The event, scheduled for April 25–27, will be organized by the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) in partnership with CARILEC, the regional association for electric utilities.

The competition and training sessions, which draw participants from CARILEC’s 33 member utilities, aim to showcase the skill, safety, and teamwork of the men and women who maintain the region’s power infrastructure. The event also serves as a critical training platform, preparing lineworkers for emergency response deployments under CARILEC’s Disaster Assistance Programme, which supports Caribbean nations recovering from hurricanes and other natural disasters.

The 2025 Rodeo coincides with Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 18, an annual observance recognizing the essential role of power line crews, who often work in hazardous conditions to keep homes, businesses, and public services running. Hosting the event is a major milestone for the BVI, underscoring the territory’s growing influence in the regional energy sector.

“We are extremely proud to welcome CARILEC and its participating utilities to the British Virgin Islands,” said Dr. Neil Smith, General Manager of BVIEC. “This event is not just a historic moment for the BVI, but a testament to our commitment to excellence in energy services. Lineworkers are the backbone of our power infrastructure, and this event highlights the importance of safety, training, and professional development.”

Beyond the competition, the Rodeo provides hands-on training in best practices for safety and efficiency, a priority for the industry. Melony James, BVIEC’s Occupational Health and Safety Manager, highlighted the significance of these sessions.

“Safety remains our top priority at BVIEC. The Rodeo and Symposium offer an invaluable opportunity for lineworkers to refine their skills, engage in technical exercises, and learn from their peers across the region,” James said.

She also encouraged the public to support the BVIEC team, which will compete in the Rodeo with hopes of securing a third consecutive championship title.

“Your presence will be a powerful show of support for the hardworking lineworkers who keep our communities powered and safe. The energy and encouragement from the crowd can make all the difference as they demonstrate their skills, speed, and teamwork in this thrilling competition,” James added.

For more information about the 2025 CARILEC Lineworkers Rodeo, Symposium, and Field Safety Training, contact BVIEC at (284) 494-3911 or 852-4600.