Pat Thompson, coordinator at the Tennessee Technology Center at Memphis Aviation Campus, was among 11 women in the field of aviation/aeronautics who received the “Sisters of Distinction Award” during the Fly-Sister-Fly Empowerment Breakfast at the Mariott Downtown on Wednesday (Aug. 4th).

This is the fifth year that the award has been given in honor of the anniversary of the April 30, 1926 fatal crash of Bessie Coleman (Queen Bess), who became the first American citizen to receive an International Pilots License on June 15, 1921.

Thompson was applauded not only for her leadership ability, but also for her extensive knowledge of all facets of administration at the Aviation Training Center, which is located at 3435 Tchulahoma Road. Though her job title is coordinator, the affiliate organizations such as the Federal Aviation Administration, her colleagues, students and prospective students look to her as an advisor, counselor, mediator, and troubleshooter. She is credited with creating the opportunity for many underserved youth to explore aerospace careers.

“My philosophy is that we’re a family here at the center – students and instructors,” said Thompson. “Though the students are held to high standards, they know that we care about them. The reward is our students’ accomplishments – when they come back and tell us that we’ve made a difference in their lives.”

Thompson’s benevolent spirit carries over into her personal life. She is a member of the Women’s Ministry at Middle Baptist Church – Whitehaven, and has completed Phase I Training of the Evangelism Explosion Ministry. Most recently, she completed requirements for membership in Common Ground, an organization whose mission is to promote diversity and better race relations.