Women in Aviation Empowering Women

A new suit, shoes and even a handbag can mean a lot both personally and professionally. Clothes don’t make a person, but they can help with self-esteem and landing that dream job.

That’s why the employee organization Women in Aviation in the CLT Aviation Department stepped up to help Dress for Success Charlotte with a clothing drive that will give women in need access to professional attire and accessories.

“When you look good, you feel good, you feel like you have more to contribute,” said Melia Gordon, a budget and financial services manager and president of Women in Aviation.

Aviation employees donated more than 170 pieces of professional clothing and accessories during the March 2-6 drive.

Along with professional attire, Dress for Success Charlotte provides career-related services. It takes in approximately 30 tons of clothing (roughly 27,000 to 30,000 pieces) a year and its clients range in age from 17 to 81.

“We all know as women and men how important it is to walk into an interview and be well prepared,” said Kerry Barr O’Connor, executive director of Dress for Success Charlotte. “This doesn’t just include an updated resume and an elevator speech. It also is your outfit that people will notice, and you want to make sure it’s not only appropriate, but well pressed and in style.”

One of the goals of Women in Aviation is to connect with and collaborate with others in the local community. Connections don’t just happen in the terminal, and that led to this year’s Dress for Success partnership.

“The donations will help clothe women seeking job opportunities and economic independence,” said Diana May, Aviation’s volunteer programs manager and Women in Aviation member. “It feels great being able to play a part in helping change someone’s life for the better.”

Visit the Dress for Success web page for more information.