Southwest Region

Hi, let me introduce myself,

I was born and raised in Georgia. My love of aviation started when I was 5 years old and my mother took me to see the Space Shuttle Launch. My grandfather took me on my first airplane flight when I was 13 years old and from that point I was hooked.

After high school I went to Embry-Riddle where I furthered my dreams of aviation. While at Embry-Riddle I earned a BS in Aeronautical Science, minors in meteorology and Air Traffic. I also received my Commercial Single and Multi-engine land instrument airplane and CFII pilot certificates.

After college I moved back to Atlanta where I worked as a flight instructor and eventually worked as a corporate pilot for a small company out ofRoswell, GA. During this time I also worked at the SciTrek Science Museum along with Lockheed Martin as an instructor and then as the Director of an Aviation camp for children. It was during my involvement with the Georgia Aviation Camp that I was first introduced to PWC and had the opportunity to work closely with WIA, Women Fly, EAA, Tuskegee Airmen, AOPA, ALPA, NATCA and other aviation based associations.

I hired into the FAA on September 6, 2000 and arrived at Memphis ARTCC in December of that year. I checked out as a CPC in May of 2003. I had just completed my D-side training at Memphis Center when I had my daughter, Catherine. After returning to work I was asked to join the Memphis Aviation Child Care Board of Directors. I held several positions while on the Board of Directors including, Fund Raising Chair, Treasurer, and President.

After reuniting with my Jr. High Sweet Heart and Soul Mate (who lived in Dallas) I transferred to the Central Service Center. I was in Planning and Requirements for about 4 months before transferring to the Safety Assurance Group. I served as a Safety Assurance Specialist for about 2 ½ years. I transferred to AOV in August of this year and am enjoying my new adventure outside the ATO.

Other interest include flying, camping, hiking, bike riding, triathlons, horses, music, good wine and most importantly my family. I am also a member of the NHCFAE, Lewisville LIONS Club, and St. Nicholas Episcopal Church.

Dawne Gerard
PWC ASW RD