Karen Gebhart, vice president of business development and expositions for HAI, was elected to the Board of Directors for Women in Aviation, International (WAI) during that association’s annual meeting in Dallas.

“I have long admired the work WAI has done over the years to build a dynamic and growing aviation organization focused on women, and I am honored to become a part of the direction for the future.”

Gebhart brings a wealth of aviation experience to the position. She is a fixed-wing private pilot with more than 500 flight hours. Prior to her current position at HAI, Gebhart served the general aviation community for 16 years in a number of executive positions at the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

In her role at HAI, Gebhart is responsible for expanding the Association’s presence worldwide, both through oversight of HELI-EXPO^®; advertising in ROTOR magazine; increased visibility at air shows, conventions, and expositions; and through development of strategic alliances and partnerships. She also oversees HAI’s Membership department and its efforts to achieve an even deeper penetration into the helicopter community.

“As in other segments of aviation, women represent one of the great untapped pools for the helicopter industry,” said Gebhart. “I look forward to working closely with Women in Aviation to promote aviation as a real option open to women – whether as a career or just a goal for personal satisfaction and enrichment.”