Two BCIT alumni have been named ‘NextGen leaders’ by Wings magazine. The Canadian Women in Aviation & Aerospace edition highlights a group of women it calls ‘the difference makers.’
Both were also recently named to the magazine’s Top 20 under 40 list.
Graduates of different programs, both women have risen though the aviation ranks.
Jocelyn Lebell (pictured above) joined Hawkair shortly after completing a Marketing Management diploma at BCIT. In the 13 years since, she has worked her way up to a senior executive role, Director of Corporate Service.
“I got into the aviation industry because I love travel,” says LeBell. “I feel very fortunate that my job provides me with the opportunity to see so many places and have many wonderful experiences.”
LeBell says her career “is a journey of learning, development and growth,” and she credits BCIT for helping to make it possible.
“As Director of Corporate Services my role is to translate strategy into action in order to achieve our goals. The Marketing Management program helped provide me with the skills needed to succeed in business,” she says.
Candace McKibbon has also reached executive heights.
Last year, the Airport Operations grad was named Executive Director of the BC Aviation Council (BCAC).
“Candace dares greatly and continues to rise strong,” says Cheryl Cahill, the Chief Instructor of the BCIT Aviation Operations program. “I look forward to more Candace McKibbons in our industry.”
Fellow Aviation instructor, Heather Madden-Johns, is also thrilled with Candace’s success.
“She brings her whole heart to every role she takes on,” says Madden-Johns. “As a student, Candace took advantage of every opportunity and was involved in a wide range of volunteer activities, while still maintaining an excellent academic record. From my perspective, it’s hard to tell where work ends and play starts for Candace, as she brings so much energy and commitment to every role.”
In her current role of Executive Director at BCAC, Candace has shown a commitment to inspiring a love of aviation in others. She encourages anyone interested in the industry to apply for scholarships — pointing out that the BCAC alone offers more than $20,000 in awards annually.
Candace also spearheads a new blog called Blue Skies Ahead, aimed at getting young people interested in aviation. The first two articles feature recent Airport Operations graduates Kal Manna and Nicole Gaudet.
“It’s a lovely tribute to her Alma Mater,” says Madden-Johns.
Candace says she’s grateful to BCIT. “The Airport Operations program gave me the skills and network that allowed me to succeed in the industry. The networking opportunities, industry experience and practical learning provided through BCIT brought me into my career. I would not be where I am today without BCIT.”