Joan E. Mace, AA ’73, BGS ’78

Joan Mace began her career in aviation in 1942 building Helldiver aircraft for the Navy during World War II. Pursuing her passion for flying, she became one of the first instructors for Ohio University’s flight instruction program in 1963. Twenty years later, she was named department chair, becoming the first woman to head the aviation department. As chair, she established the Aviation Advisory Board, brought to campus the national honorary aviation fraternity, and oversaw the construction of the Francis Fuller Student Aviation Flight Training Center. Mace was also instrumental in connecting OHIO aviation students to United Airlines’ internship program. Holding the highest FAA license given, the Multiengine Air Transport Pilot Certificate, Mace has received the FAA Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award and the Ninety-Nines Award of Achievement for Contribution to Aviation and is a member of the National Association of Flight Instructors Hall of Fame.