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The International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2023, is #DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”.
In line with the international women’s day, Mamaj Aviation blog is celebrating some leading women holding her own in the Aviation, travel and tourism industry in Nigeria, whose story will inspire women out there…Women who are working assiduously behind the scenes, pushing boundaries and leaving a mark!
1. Please introduce yourself, your name, where are you from?
My name is Iloaba Josephine CHINAGOROM. 1 am from Enugu State, Oji River LGA.
2. Give us a brief career history. What schools did you attend?
I attended Institute Of Management And Technology, Enugu, where I studied microbiology and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Post Graduate Diploma in Education; then Aeroconsult school of Aviation ikeja, where I did my Flight dispatcher’s course.
3. How many years have you spent in the Aviation Industry? Pursuing a career as flight Dispatcher which was once a male dominated field , what challenges did you face?
I came into the industry as a security personnel (AVSEC) in 2018. I soon realized there are whole lot of opportunities in the industry, I picked interest in flight dispatch and in 2019 I began to pursue a career in this direction. One of the challenges I faced was that of finances. Having to raise money to enroll myself and combing it with my job as AVSEC was quite challenging.
4. How is a typical day like for you as a flight dispatcher?
As a flight dispatcher my day is filled with variety of tasks that will ensure a properly planned and executed flight. Filing of ATC Flight Plan, analyzing weather forecast and depiction, selection of appropriate routes and altitude, load and trim sheet calculation etc. As a flight dispatcher I carry out operational control which is the exercise of authority over the initiation, continuation, diversion or termination of a flight for the interest of safety. Work schedule for us on a work day are usually not more than 10 straight hours.
5. What is your most memorable Career moment?
On this fateful day at Sam mbakwe International Airport Owerri, I had two aircrafts arriving at about the same time. I was to dispatch them both, same departure schedule; one to Lagos and the other to Abuja. On arrival, the Fuel Bowser which was to fuel the aircrafts broke down. This situation was going to create delays on these flights having done all the necessary paperwork ( the ATC flight plan, operational flight plan ,flight release). To salvage the situation, I had to start the entire process of paper work over again, this time, planning to reroute the aircrafts to do a fuel-stop at a closer station. I managed to dispatch these aircrafts with very negligible delay. It was remarkable for me because it was my first experience of operational contingencies that are able to upset your planning.
6. What challenges have you encountered on the job and in your career journey, especially as a woman?
Being a flight dispatcher is an extremely stressful job generally, especially when things go wrong and variables like weather which normally is not within our control. There is no gender discrimination in flight dispatch, your experience is all that matters.
7. With reference to this year’s campaign theme, what is your opinion about “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality” How can you relate this to Aviation?
The Aviation industry promotes gender equality. It is a highly professional environment. Aviation in our age is at the fore-front of technology which has created a level playing field for both gender. With tech dominance in the industry, new roles have been created which is able to accommodate women who are interested. Women all over the world have written their names in gold in the industry. The issue of male domination in the nearest future will be a thing of the past.
8. What advice do you have for young women out there who are aspiring to become flight dispatcher?
The opportunities in the industry are enormous. Women who wants to pursue a career in Flight Dispatch should take the bull by the horn. Just be focused and diligent. There are no limits. It is a job you can do even while pregnant or nursing your newborn.
9. Where do you see yourself in the next few years?
Ladies and gentlemen, this is your Captain speaking…….my name is Josephine (smiles)
In few years to come, I see myself in the flight-deck. In this industry, growth is allowed, remember I started as a security personnel. With dedication, commitment, diligence and good finances I am more than convinced that I will get there.
I want to thank MamaJ for giving me this platform to share my story. I know it will encourage someone out there.
