Jacoa Bailey joined the ramp team in Brisbane, Australia in November 2021. As well as working at Menzies, Jacoa is training to be a pilot at Griffith University and shares her story of working in aviation on International Women’s Day.

“Happy International Women’s Day! Not only is today a day for appreciating and recognising women all around the world, but it is a day to reflect on the hardships and bias women still face. Today is a day to recognise and appreciate what women do for aviation and acknowledge the inequalities that still exist.

Before I joined Menzies, working in aviation was a huge priority of mine before I started my flight training. I thought this job would spark my interest in airlines and help me to learn about airport operations - I never thought it would open up a whole new passion for supporting women in aviation.

Starting this role, I knew I was coming into a male-dominated environment. I have never experienced any discrimination from my employer, yet, as a woman working in a physically demanding role, there is a tension of feeling like you have to prove yourself or be less feminine.

I am passionate about learning and advocating for women in aviation - no bag is too heavy or bruise too big. To all the women who are part of the aviation sector - keep breaking down those boundaries and be proud of influencing change.”

We want to hear what you’re doing at Menzies to #breakthebias. Send your stories to Internal Communications.