Women’s History taking off at Macon’s airports

In celebration of Women's History Month, it's crucial to recognize the remarkable achievements of women who have shattered glass ceilings in traditionally male-dominated fields. One such trailblazer worth celebrating is Heather Lowe. On February 6, 2024. after 84 years, the Middle Georgia Regional and Macon Downtown Airports welcomed Heather Lowe as their first female Airport Manager.

"Being the first female airport manager for the Macon airports is something I get excited about every day. Holding this position fills me with immense pride," says Lowe. "As an airport manager, I have my work cut out for me, but my role is so deeply rewarding. It's a constant volley between creative problem-solving and moving forward with exciting projects."

Airport managers play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable operation of airports. Their leadership and oversight contribute to a seamless travel experience for passengers while maintaining compliance with regulations and fostering positive relationships with stakeholders.

"My hope is to serve as an inspiration for other women who share a passion for aviation to join this incredible industry," adds Lowe. "Witnessing successful women achieve their goals in aviation empowers me and fuels my determination to pave the way for more people like me within the industry. Overall, I want to show other women that there is a place for them here."

Aviation may be a career choice, but it is also a family legacy. Her father, Ret. Lt. Colonel David Hillstrom served as a B-52 navigator in the USAF, and his passion for aviation extended beyond his military career as he obtained his private pilot's license in 1978. Furthermore, Heather's grandfathers were both in the air force. Colonel Carl Hillstrom flew the B-24 Liberator in World War II, among many other aircraft. He was the lead element in the pathfinder forces (PFF) at the age of 23 in April of 1944. He had a total of 4,888 hours of military flight time.

Her maternal grandfather, Ray Gant, is a retired Chief Master Sergeant with 30 years in the air force. He was a crew chief for the B-52 Stratofortress. Exceptionally well versed in keeping the B-52 up and flying. After he retired, he became a quality assurance specialist for the C-141 and was a recipient of the Air Force Logistics Command Commander's Service Award.

Heather's Journey to airport manager began with TBI Airport Management as the Business Manager at the Middle Georgia Regional Airport/ Macon Downtown Airport. She has also spent time as a civilian in the Air Logistics Complex (ALC) at Robins Air Force Base supporting the Engineering Directorate under the ALC Commander. She is a part of the Georgia Airport Association (GAA) and actively participates in the Education, and Conference committees. She is also involved in Women in Aviation International.

Her education includes her bachelor's in business administration with a concentration in environmental sustainability, and a minor in outdoor recreation. She moved on to receive her masters in aeronautics with a specialization in aviation/Aerospace Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

"My best advice for other women trying to make this their career path would be to not be afraid to get your hands dirty and make sure you are open to learning something new every single day, on or off the airfield," Lowe shared "Sometimes the best lessons are the hardest ones to hear because they may come in the form of criticism. An additional piece of advice would be to attract a good mentor. I wouldn't be where I am today without mine."

The Middle Georgia Regional Airport has a long and rich history, which dates back to World War II. In March 1940, the United States Army began construction on Cochran Army Airfield, which officially opened in October 1940.On August 17, 1941, the first class of British Royal Air Force cadets arrived at Cochran Field under Arnold Scheme. Until June 1942, Cochran was used exclusively for British training.

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