Cecilie at the Helm: How Aviator's Youngest Station Manager is Redefining Leadership in Aviation

From the windswept coast of Karm?y, where airplanes trace the sky above my childhood home, my journey to becoming the youngest Station Manager at Aviator Airport Alliance has been nothing short of remarkable. Now 29, on the cusp of 30, I've grown from a girl living minutes from the airport to a woman shaping its future, alongside my family just a stone's throw away.

My adventure with Aviator began in 2014, at the age of 20. Inspired by my twin sister and father, both airport veterans, I stepped into the world of aviation as a ramp agent, mistakenly anticipating a role as a customer agent. The initial shock of the physical demands quickly turned into a passion for the hustle and teamwork that define Aviator HAU. By 2016, I was nurturing the next generation of ramp agents as an instructor, sharing the belief that anything is possible with dedication and teamwork.

The defining moment of my career arrived in 2019, when I stepped into the role of Acting Station Manager. It was a test of my resolve, pushing me into the deep end of leadership and responsibility. This experience, followed by my promotion to Assistant Station Manager and eventually Station Manager in 2022, has been a testament to Aviator's faith in young talent and the unwavering support of my colleagues. Their acceptance and encouragement have fueled my drive to never give up, to always find solutions, and to grow through every challenge.

The ever-changing landscape of airport operations keeps my days varied and exciting. From managing extreme weather conditions at Haugesund airport to ensuring the safety of our team, every day brings new trials. Yet, amidst the managerial duties, I remain grounded, still working on the RAMP, loading bags, and even training to de-ice aircrafts. This hands-on approach not only keeps me connected to my roots but also to the heart of our operations.

Navigating the challenges of the COVID pandemic as Acting Station Manager was a period of intense learning and difficult decisions, including the heartbreaking task of reducing our workforce. Yet, it was also a time of resilience and eventual reunion, as we welcomed back colleagues when normalcy returned.

My journey has been marked by breaking stereotypes, from being one of the few women on the ramp to confronting outdated notions of gender roles in aviation. Despite facing skepticism and bias, I've stood firm in my belief that competence, not gender, defines capability. My experiences have taught me the importance of working smart and efficiently, principles that guide me both on the ramp and in my role as Station Manager.

The loss of my father in 2014 was a pivotal moment that taught me the value of resilience and the importance of making the most of every opportunity. It's in striving for excellence and embracing responsibility that I hope to honor his memory and make my family proud.

My story is a tribute to the spirit of #womeninaviation and the incredible community at Aviator. It's a narrative of overcoming adversity, challenging stereotypes, and leading by example. As I look to the future, I am excited to continue paving the way for the next generation of women in aviation, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and achieve their full potential.