TORONTO — One of Sunwing’s own has been recognized for being one of Canada’s most inspiring young leaders in aviation.

First Officer Jessalyn Teed, 24, was named one of ‘WINGS’ magazine’s Top 20 Under 40 for 2019 in its July/August issue, an award that honours young leaders who are influencing the aerospace industry.

As one of the first graduates hired by the airline as part of its ongoing partnership with the University of Waterloo, Teed has been instrumental in the implementation of the soon-to-launch Sunwing Mentorship Program, which will partner experienced Sunwing pilots with new graduates. She also continues to work closely with the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre, where she studied, on developing future initiatives, including a course focused on multi-crew environments that benefit future pilots.

Piyush Gandhi, Vice President of Flight Operations for Sunwing Airlines, said that the company is “extremely proud” of Teed.

“Since graduating from our cadet program in partnership with the University of Waterloo, Jessalyn’s career has gone from strength to strength. She has been an ambassador at the Canadian Women in Aviation conference and worked closely with our Diversity and Inclusion Committee (Y.A.Y!) during Women in Aviation Week to help highlight the opportunities that exist for women within the industry. In addition, she continues to lend her support to Girls Take Flight events. She is a valued member of the Sunwing Airlines team and we look forward to seeing all that she accomplishes in the future.”

Since 2016, Sunwing has hired 24 pilots through its direct entry programs in partnership with the University of Waterloo and Seneca Collage. Last year, the airline announced a new partnership with Mount Royal University in Calgary. Aspiring pilots can learn more about opportunities by visiting Sunwing’s career site at https://jobs.jobvite.com/sunwing/.