When Erica Angel was growing up in San Juan Capistrano, California, she didn’t expect to become a pilot. She had considered a more traditional career path, until a conversation with her mother led her to aviation.  

“It was my mom who said an office job sounded boring and that I should do something wild like fly a helicopter,” stared Angel. “So, I looked into flight school, and within a few months, I was starting my flight training. I took a chance. It has led to an exciting and unique career path.”  

Now, with more than 4,000 flight hours, Angel has worked across several sectors of the aviation industry. She started as a flight instructor in California before moving to Nevada, where she flew Grand Canyon tours. In 2018, she transitioned to air medical services, flying emergency missions in Arizona, Nevada, and South Carolina.

Angel is now preparing to relocate to Goodyear, where she will continue her work as a helicopter emergency medical services pilot for Air Methods, a national air medical provider.  

Women remain underrepresented in aviation. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, just over 9% of licensed pilots in the U.S. are women, with even fewer in helicopter aviation. Women of Aviation Worldwide Week, established in 2010, aims to highlight the role of women in the industry and promote aviation careers.  

Angel said working in helicopter emergency medical services presents unique challenges, requiring quick decision-making and adaptability.  

“(Helicopter emergency medical services) is a unique job, and I love what I do,” stated Angel. “I’ve left and returned and decided I will only do this job for Air Methods because of our focus on and commitment to always make safety the priority.”

As she continues her career, Angel said staying flexible and confident has been important in navigating an evolving industry.

“Having confidence and staying nimble in an industry that continues to evolve is the key to success,” stated Angel.