Wisconsin Chapter

Wisconsin Chapter Chartered in 1940. The Central Wisconsin chapter was formed when Melba Beard lived in Madison. In early 1941, Milwaukee area women pilots organized an Eastern Wisconsin Chapter. During World War II, many Wisconsin chapter members joined the WASPS, WACs, and WAVES; others joined the Civil Air Patrol. Ruth Harmon, Wisconsin's first women airport operator (Kenosha) taught army and navy cadets to fly. Later the two Wisconsin Chapters merged to form the present day Wisconsin chapter.

In more recent history, Wisconsin members have delivered daffodils for the American Cancer Society, presented Flying Companion Seminars, completed air marking projects, and given aviation presentations for schools and community groups. In addition, members participate in our annual June Pancake Breakfast in Watertown. Many women in aviation have been introduced to our organization by volunteers at the International 99s tent in Oshkosh, each summer at AirVenture.

The Wisconsin Chapter celebrates its 68th anniversary with members representing many facets of aviation, from private to airline pilots, flight instructors, seaplane, helicopters, glider pilots, balloonists, parachutists, and air traffic controllers.