Her Story
About Carol
Carol Thompson began her career in the Air Force, initially pursuing pilot training before switching to air traffic control. She oversaw airfields and air traffic control operations during her 20-year military service. After retiring from the military, she took a position as an airfield manager at Fort Huachuca in Arizona, where she managed airport operations for an additional 16 years in civil service, bringing her total experience around airports and air traffic to 36 years. A graduate of Washington State University through its ROTC program in the class of 1986, she was one of only two women in her class. Thompson has mentored youth interested in flying by conducting school tours, Young Eagles flights, and facility tours. She attributes her success to not viewing herself as different from her peers and applying the survivor method of outlasting and outperforming others. She advises young women entering the field to clearly define their goals, hold their own, and learn from what they know while asking questions. Thompson stresses the importance of work-life balance, noting that allowing work to take over can have negative consequences and encouraging others to set boundaries and take care of themselves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Carol
01What do you attribute your success to?
I just didn't put it in the context of being any different than anybody else, they just wanted to fly. I always use the Survivor Method which was Outlast, outperform. Figure out what you need to do and hold your own.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Just clearly define your goals, and you're just the same as they are. Hold your own. Go with what you're good at, go from what you know, and learn. If you have questions asked, don't just sit there and ponder.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Work-life balance is critical. Do not let work take over completely or it will come back to bite you. Take care of yourself and set boundaries.
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