Karen Gebhart, vice president of business development for the Helicopter Association International, was elected to a two-year term as the chair of the WAI board of directors at the 2016 International Women in Aviation Conference. She is a private pilot and industry veteran who previously worked for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

“We are committed to promoting all segments of the aviation community to our members,” said WAI President Dr. Peggy Chabrian. “In addition to Karen’s extensive leadership talent, we look forward to her bringing greater visibility to career opportunities in the helicopter industry.”

Two new board members were voted in by the WAI members at the organization’s annual membership meeting held March 10, 2016. Linda A. Markham is president and chief administrative officer of Cape Air and Nantucket Airlines, and Lauren McFarland is director of advertising for the Aircraft Electronics Association.

“We welcome our new board members who join an incredible group of talented industry professionals who help guide and shape Women in Aviation International,” said Peggy.