Kathryn Allen
Kathryn Allen is an aviation professional with experience spanning airline operations, safety, maintenance, and coordination roles. She holds a B.S. in Aviation Management from the University of Dubuque and is currently based in the New York City Metropolitan Area. With a detail-oriented and proactive approach, Kathryn is recognized for her ability to support complex, time-sensitive operations while maintaining a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and teamwork.
In her role as an Aircraft Loading Supervisor with Lufthansa Group, Kathryn applies her operational knowledge to ensure safe and efficient aircraft loading in a highly regulated environment. Previously, she worked in the Airport Coordination Center at Sun Country Airlines, where she supported real-time operational decision-making, including gate changes, delays, cargo load planning, weight and balance monitoring, and cross-department coordination with flight crews, maintenance, and ground teams. She also led an independent project to update contact information for nearly 100 outstations, improving communication and operational efficiency across the network.
Kathryn’s aviation foundation is further strengthened by her aircraft maintenance internship with the University of Dubuque, where she assisted with inspections, logbooks, and fleet readiness while gaining hands-on exposure to FAA regulations. Complementing her technical background, she brings strong customer service and communication skills from client-facing roles earlier in her career. Known for her strong work ethic, collaborative mindset, and problem-solving abilities, Kathryn is eager to continue growing in aviation operations, airline safety, or ground coordination roles and is open to relocation for the right opportunity.
• University of Dubuque
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is leading effectively in a traditionally male-dominated environment with a wide range of personalities. Through that experience, I’ve found my voice and grown more confident in my leadership style, allowing me to lead both men and women with clarity, respect, and confidence—turning that challenge into a meaningful opportunity for growth and impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are growth, adaptability, and balance. While I shifted my academic focus from music to aviation, I continue to value creativity and discipline through playing the violin, which I’ve done for over 10 years. Since relocating to New York, I’m also focused on building meaningful connections and expanding my network within both the aviation and music communities.