For Women’s Equality Day, Envoy is celebrating the incredible women who bring skill, passion and determination to every corner of our operation. Among them is Stephanie Watkins, Aircraft Maintenance Crew Chief in Little Rock (LIT), whose work continues to demonstrate that women have an important role in every part of the aviation industry.
Women currently make up just 3% of all Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certified aircraft mechanics, but Stephanie is helping change that narrative every day through her technical expertise, leadership and commitment to keeping our aircraft safe and reliable.
Finding Her Path in Aviation
Stephanie’s aviation career began with a background rooted in precision and problem-solving. After earning her degree in Machine Tool Technology and working as a machinist, she discovered that her skills could take her in a new direction.
“I enjoyed working with my hands, solving technical problems and working in precision, but I was ready to take on a new challenge,” Stephanie said. “That led me to aviation and aircraft maintenance, where I found a career that combined many of the skills I had already developed.”
Her machining experience gave her a strong technical foundation and helped prepare her for the fast-paced, detail-oriented world of aircraft maintenance.
Growing as a Leader at Envoy
Stephanie joined Envoy as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician, spending her first year building her knowledge and gaining hands-on experience. After that, she stepped into the role of Aircraft Maintenance Crew Chief, where she now helps oversee maintenance operations and leads teams to ensure aircraft are reliable and ready to return to service.
“Over the past three years, I’ve learned a great deal, both technically and professionally,” Stephanie said. “I’m grateful for the people who have supported me along the way and for the opportunities Envoy has given me.”
As a Crew Chief, Stephanie combines her technical expertise with leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, helping guide her team and keep our operation running safely and efficiently.
A Passion for Aviation and Continuous Growth
One of Stephanie’s favorite parts of working in aircraft maintenance is that no two days are exactly alike.
“I love the hands-on side of aviation maintenance and the feeling of knowing that the work we do plays an important role in keeping aircraft safe and ready to fly,” she said. “I also really enjoy being part of a team and working alongside people who have the same passion for aviation.”
Earlier this year, Envoy announced a major expansion to its aircraft maintenance facility in Little Rock, continuing to grow our team and support the broader community.
That passion for growth extends beyond our growing aircraft hangar. Outside of work, Stephanie stays active by training for her first full marathon after completing three half marathons. She also spends time horseback riding and participating in the rodeo world, activities that have taught her valuable lessons about discipline, perseverance, and pushing herself to achieve new goals.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Aviation
For Stephanie, women’s equality means creating opportunities for everyone to learn, grow and succeed.
“To me, women’s equality means having the same opportunities for growth and development based on your abilities and work ethic,” she said. “In aviation, it means knowing that being a woman does not limit how far you can go or what you can accomplish.”
This Women’s Equality Day, we celebrate Stephanie and the many women across Envoy who are helping shape the future of aviation.