An outstanding leader and exceptional pilot, Major General Jeannie Leavitt’s determination to reach her goals solidified her place in aviation history. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, General Leavitt attended the University of Texas earning a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering in 1990. After earning a master’s degree in aeronautics from Stanford University, in 1992, she joined the U.S. Air Force, the year Congress changed the law allowing women in combat. And in 1993, it was announced General Leavitt would become the U.S. Air Force’s first female fighter pilot, flying the F-15E Strike Eagle, opening the door for countless women in the military. In 1998, she became the first female to graduate from the Air Force Weapons School, where she later became an instructor. As a colonel, she was the first woman to command an Air Force combat fighter wing. Her last position was the Department of the Air Force chief of safety at the Pentagon and commander of the Air Force Safety Center at Kirtland Air Force Base. Leavitt logged more than 3,000 flight hours, including over 300 hours of combat flying in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning countless medals and commendations. General Leavitt remains a strong advocate for women and encourages them to pursue careers in aviation.

“Write your own story – don’t let anyone write it for you.” – Jeannie M. Leavitt