Gretchen Kemp
Gretchen Kemp is an experienced operations and training professional whose career spans education, aviation, customer service, and organizational development. She currently serves as an Executive Assistant at HYE.AERO, where she supports private aviation operations with responsibilities that include bookkeeping, HR support, receptionist duties, contract review, and market intelligence analysis on private jets and helicopters. In this role, she is actively involved in aircraft market analysis and brokerage support, helping evaluate, acquire, and resell aviation assets while gaining hands-on exposure to the private aviation industry.
Prior to her transition into aviation, Gretchen built a strong foundation in education and training. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and a Master’s degree in Music Education, and spent years working as a choir director and private instructor in voice and piano. Her professional background also includes roles as a Staff Development and Training Specialist with the Division of Youth Services, where she designed and delivered training programs, managed learning systems, and supported workforce development initiatives. Earlier in her career, she gained diverse experience working at Walt Disney World and as a certified dog trainer, further strengthening her communication, instructional, and people-centered skills.
Across all of her roles, Gretchen is recognized for her adaptability, leadership, and commitment to lifelong learning. She is active in networking and community engagement, including participation in local business groups, church leadership, and volunteer efforts such as Feed My Starving Children and the Ronald McDonald House. She also operates in entrepreneurial and consulting spaces, reflecting her broad skill set in communication, training, project management, and organizational support. Her professional philosophy centers on embracing challenges, leveraging transferable skills, and continuously growing across industries.
• Professional Teaching Certificate
• University of Missouri-Kansas City - M.M.Ed.
• ACDA
• FMEA/NAfME/MMEA
• Super Patch
• Ronald McDonald House
• Feed My Starving Children
• Church Council
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to determination and a willingness to take on challenges. When I encounter something new—even outside my experience—I dive in and figure it out. For instance, I applied for an aviation role despite having a music education background, confident that my skills and adaptability would allow me to succeed.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is simple: never sell yourself short. Too often, we doubt our abilities or feel we need every qualification before applying—but a willingness to learn can take you further than experience alone. I was hired into a role with no prior background, and my curiosity and drive carried me. Don’t overthink it—take the leap. The worst that can happen is someone says no.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Aviation remains a male-prevalent field, and women often underapply for roles, which is both a challenge and an opportunity. Learning the industry’s specialized language, contracts, and market practices can be demanding, but mastering these areas creates significant room for growth and advancement.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both work and life are community service and faith, a willingness to learn, perseverance, and maintaining a positive, uplifting approach. Being active in my church and volunteering in the past have shaped how I engage with others and approach challenges with purpose and optimism.
Locations
HYE.AERO
Libertyville, IL 60048