NW Valley Times

GCU News Senior Writer Mark Gonzales reported on March 27, 2024, that GCU doctoral candidate Leja Noe, a Delta Air Lines flight captain, has been selected to participate in a Harvard University program aimed at empowering women in leadership roles in the aerospace industry.

Noe's mother's determination to not let her daughter face the same limitations she did as a teenager has been a driving force behind Noe's success. Noe shared, "She wanted it known that she wanted a career, but her guidance counselor told her women could be only nurses or teachers, so she could be a nurse or a teacher if she wanted a career." Noe's mother's resolve has been a catalyst for her to excel in a male-dominated profession.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the upcoming Harvard program, Noe stated, "I am so excited about this opportunity. Leadership is part of what I do for Delta Air Lines. It’s going to be a huge opportunity to grow. It’s also instrumental to my dissertation."

Noe's academic journey includes a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Portland University and a master’s degree in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She currently leads Delta’s human performance team, focusing on safety work and human factors practices in flight operations.

The Harvard program holds special significance for Noe as Harvard professor Amy Edmondson was the researcher for the theory she is utilizing for her dissertation, titled “Perception of Psychological Safety in the Flight Deck.”

Leja Noe's passion for aviation dates back to her youth, and she aims to leverage the leadership insights gained from the Harvard program to address the slow growth of women in the aviation industry. Noe emphasized, "The ultimate hope for the program is to get more women as executive managers in the aerospace industry."

Dr. Barrett Mincey, GCU College of Doctoral Studies senior dissertation chair, commended Noe's focus and attention to detail, qualities that have contributed to her success in the aviation field.

Noe's academic pursuits and advocacy work are driven by a desire to understand pilot behavior and enhance safety recommendations in the aviation industry. She hopes to inspire other women to consider careers in aviation by showcasing the opportunities available to them.

Noe's dedication to breaking barriers and advocating for diversity in the flight deck exemplifies her commitment to empowering women in the aerospace profession.