Peru, Nebraska – Turned away from flight school because she was a woman, Olga Custodio broke barriers - including the sound barrier! - as the first Latina to complete USAF military pilot training, become a United States Air Force Pilot, and later, as the first Latina commercial pilot and captain for American Airlines. She will share her life story of persistence, passion and patience as part of the 2020-2021 Distinguished Speaker Series at Peru State College.
The public is invited to attend this free event in the Performing Arts Center on Monday, March 29 at 7 p.m. Due to CDC Covid-19 guidelines, a limited number of tickets will be available and attendees must reserve a ticket online. Groups and/or individuals will be asked to social distance by sitting at least 6 feet apart. Masks will be required.
Custodio’s presentation will captivate the audience by using her mantra, querer es poder or where there is a will, there is power. She has proven that gender is never a hindrance to be successful in a profession that is dominated by men. Overcoming self –doubt, staying open to possibilities, and seeing oneself as an equal to be relevant are just some of the principles she believes in, and have driven her to be successful in her chosen career.
Custodio is retired with over 11,000 flight hours to her name. She currently busies herself working with different non-profit organizations that advocate for inspiring and empowering students, especially those from underserved communities, to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace.
Peru State established the Distinguished Speaker Series in 2010 as part of a commitment to student engagement and success. The intent of the Series is to bring diverse, nationally and internationally recognized speakers to southeast Nebraska to enrich the educational experience of students while also providing regional communities more opportunities to engage in interesting and relevant topics.
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