Zoey Williams, a 27-year-old Ontario native, made history recently when she became the first Black female pilot to fly a Boeing 777 for Air Canada. To her list of achievements, Wings Magazine also included her in their esteemed Top 20 Under 40 list.
Being the pilot’s daughter, Zoey had many travel experiences throughout her early years. Because flying schedules are uncertain, she was first reluctant to follow in her father’s footsteps and originally found herself drawn to the technical side of aviation.
But after a crucial incident during a Cessna flight, which terrified the young woman, she decided to continue flying training and face her concerns. Zoey became certified as a flying instructor at the age of 19.
Over the course of her career, Zoey has managed a variety of responsibilities in the aviation industry, including operating the Beechcraft 1900 under difficult circumstances. Before joining Air Transat, she advanced significantly in her role as a first officer with Sky Regional Airlines.
Zoey persevered in the face of the pandemic’s challenges. She went on to get an MBA in Aviation at Embry-Riddle while pursuing a variety of other endeavours, such as starting a short-term rental company and flying a Boeing 737 for Flair Airlines.
Her path finally brought her to Air Canada, where she piloted flights on the Boeing 777 with her father, marking a significant accomplishment. In addition, films from Air Canada and the Elevate Aviation 2023 Women of Inspire have recognized Zoey’s accomplishments.
Beyond her work in aviation, Zoey is a gifted person who uses a variety of venues to showcase her musical abilities. In addition, she is advancing as a writer with her next book, “Go Where You Belong,” which is meant to uplift young people.
Zoey gives wise counsel after reflecting on her experience: “Don’t conceal your passionate desire to pursue anything. Maintain your concentration, expand your networks, communicate your objectives, and put your all into whatever you do. You may wind up doing the things you love every day in this way.
Credit: Allschoolabs, Allschool
