Supporting women in Aviation Engineering

A partnership between NMIT and the New Zealand Association of Women in Aviation (NZAWA), is in its third year, offering scholarships to young women pursuing careers in aviation engineering. The scholarships support and inspire the next generation of female engineers by providing financial aid, mentoring, and access to industry events. 

NZAWA sits under the umbrella of New Zealand Aviation Federation (NZAF) and aims to foster friendship amongst women interested in all aspects of aviation. 

The recipient of this year’s scholarship was Elisa Niovara, who is in her second year of studying Aeronautical Engineering at NMIT. 

Attendance at the NZAWA Rally is an important part of the scholarship. The annual rally, held earlier this year in Ashburton, fosters camaraderie and serves as a platform for women in aviation to network with industry professionals, showcase their skills, and explore career opportunities.  

Previous scholarship winners and current NMIT School of Aviation Engineering learners joined Elisa at the 2024 Rally, adding to the congenial atmosphere and enhancing friendships between the young engineers, in an industry that can feel isolating for women.  

Alongside aircraft flight events, an engineering competition was held, highlighting the attendance of the eight female aviation engineers and showcasing their engineering skills.  

Bernice Hintz, NZAWA Executive Engineering Coordinator, said the competition includes a range of tasks and challenges in both practical and theoretical tasks. 

“We were impressed with the competitors’ engagement and abilities. The competitors also commented that they have learnt something new each year,” she says. 

Robbie Stewart, Programme Team Lead at NMIT’s School of Aviation Engineering, praised the impact of the rally and the wider support received by learners. 

"I would like to express my appreciation, on behalf of the NMIT School of Aviation Engineering, for the support our students, irrespective of gender, receive from the NZAWA, NZAF and the individuals that drive and support these organisations. The feedback I have received from the students makes attendance of this rally a high priority as I see significant benefits to their participation,” he says. 

Bernice is enthusiastic about future events. 

"The rally not only fosters technical skills but also promotes engineering as a viable career choice among young women," she says. 

Find out more about our Aviation Engineering programmes.