Series on Women in Aviation.
Shradha Sharma is making history as the first woman chair of Air Terminal Services Fiji.
1. Her aviation leadership journey
As the Chair of the Board at Air Terminal Services (Fiji) PTE Limited, my role is to provide strategic oversight, governance, and leadership to ensure the organization not only thrives commercially but also upholds values that matter—like integrity, inclusion, and gender equality. My journey into this role comes with over two decades of leadership in finance, governance, and capacity building. I take pride in having helped guide Air Terminal Services through its most profitable year in history, as well as leading initiatives such as rehiring 500 staff members post-COVID—actions that demonstrate the value of people-first leadership in aviation.
2. Breaking Barriers – Gender Stereotypes
When I stepped into this role, I became the first woman to chair the board of Air Terminal Services Fiji —a milestone not just for the company, but for the aviation sector in Fiji more broadly. Aviation, particularly in operational and board-level leadership, has traditionally been male-dominated. We’re changing that. From our boardroom to the tarmac, Air Terminal Services is now home to inspiring women leaders like Camilla Simpson, the first female Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME) in the company. These are not just symbolic achievements—they are structural shifts that break down long-standing barriers and invite more women into the field.
3. Leadership Growth and Enablers for Women
What enables women to grow into leadership is a combination of opportunity, mentorship, and policy support. At Air Terminal Services, we’re committed to creating a workplace where women feel seen, heard, and supported. We’ve embedded gender equality into our core values. Leadership is not just about who holds the title—it’s about building others up, and I’m proud to support systems that promote women’s professional development at all levels, from technical teams to board positions. Personally, my own leadership journey was shaped by education, the support of my mentors, and a belief in leading with purpose.
4. Harnessing Opportunities for Women in Aviation Boards
There is so much untapped potential among Pacific women, particularly in technical and leadership fields like aviation. What’s needed now is intentionality—actively recruiting women, building pathways for them through training and apprenticeships, and ensuring our State owned boards reflect the diversity of our communities. On boards, women bring fresh perspectives and collaborative leadership styles that enrich decision-making. Air Terminal Services is proof that when women lead, organizations flourish. My message for aviation boards is simple: representation isn’t a box to tick, it’s a business advantage.
5. Message to Women and Young Girls Building Careers in Aviation
To all women and young girls who dream of a career in aviation—whether in engineering, operations, or governance—this industry needs you. Don’t let outdated stereotypes hold you back. The skies are no longer the limit. It will take commitment, resilience, and a willingness to work hard—but the rewards are profound. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, pursue the training and education needed, and never stop advocating for yourself and others. And when you reach your goals, remember to hold the door open for the next woman walking in behind you. Let the inspiring journeys of women like Camilla and mine be a beacon for your aspirations.
