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Conference Sessions
Connect and engage with this year's conference content
August 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM — August 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM
2025 Conference Opening Ceremony

Mark the start of the 2025 OBAP Annual Conference, presented by Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air, during this celebratory opening ceremony.   

August 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM — August 6, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Exhibit Hall Open
August 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM — August 6, 2025 at 11:30 AM
Altitude Adjustment: How We’re Navigating a Changing Industry

This session will bring together C-suite leaders from the nation’s major airlines for a forward-looking conversation about the current state—and future—of the aviation industry. Designed with the Black aerospace community in mind, the discussion will go beyond the flight deck to explore innovation, workforce development, strategic growth, and how professionals of color can shape the industry’s future.

August 6, 2025 at 10:00 AM — August 6, 2025 at 2:00 PM
Professional Headshots

Level up your LinkedIn and company bio with a fresh, high-quality headshot taken onsite at the OBAP Conference. Visit our Professional Headshot Station to get a complimentary portrait from a skilled photographer—perfect for updating your professional presence. Walk-ins welcome during designated hours,

August 6, 2025 at 12:00 PM — August 8, 2025 at 12:00 PM
Hall of Fame Luncheon presented by Southwest Airlines

Celebrate the 2025 OBAP Pioneer Hall of Fame inductees during this luncheon on Wednesday, August 6 at Noon.

August 6, 2025 at 2:30 PM — August 6, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Breaking Barriers: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, Workplace Biases, and Career Stagnation

Presented by Lewana Dailey

Self-doubt and bias can quietly stall even the most promising careers. This interactive session dives into the real impacts of imposter syndrome and workplace inequities—and offers practical tools to push through them. Learn how to build resilience, advocate for yourself, and take confident steps toward the growth and advancement you deserve.
 

Lewanna Dailey picture
Lewanna Dailey
August 6, 2025 at 2:30 PM — August 6, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Unapologetic Excellence: Owning Your Space in the Airline Industry

Presented by Spitfire Elite, this empowering session is all about showing up boldly and navigating the airline industry with confidence and clarity. Learn how to embrace your unique value, break through limiting beliefs, and stand out in competitive hiring environments. Whether you're transitioning from the military, switching careers, or climbing the flight deck ladder, this session will equip you to lead with purpose—and without apology.
 

Tron Williams picture
Tron Williams
August 6, 2025 at 3:00 PM — August 6, 2025 at 4:30 PM
Cleared for Takeoff: Building Your Personal Brand in the Digital Age

In today’s connected world, your online presence can be just as important as your resume. This session explores how to use social media strategically to showcase your skills, share your story, and open doors in aviation and beyond. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, learn how to build a personal brand that takes flight.
 

Captain Anya Kearns picture
Captain Anya Kearns
August 6, 2025 at 5:00 PM — August 6, 2025 at 6:30 PM
Divine Nine Meetup

Join us for the Divine Nine Meetup Reception—a special gathering for members of the Black Greek-letter community to connect, celebrate shared bonds, and build new relationships across organizations. Come enjoy fellowship and conversation in a welcoming atmosphere. RSVP required. 

August 6, 2025 at 5:00 PM — August 6, 2025 at 6:30 PM
2025 Scholarship Reception presented by Delta Air Lines - Invite Only

OBAP celebrates the 2025 scholarship recipients during this invite-only reception. 

August 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM — August 6, 2025 at 10:00 PM
Boots on the Ground Welcome Reception presented by United Airlines

OBAP kicks off with the Boots on the Ground Welcome Reception presented by United Airlines! The music's up, the floor’s packed, the line dances are rolling — and you already know somebody gon’ holler: “Where them fans at?!”

Bring your cowboy boots, hats, and your best moves. We’re starting the week off right over small bites and beverages. Sponsored by United Airlines.

August 6, 2025 at 9:00 PM — August 6, 2025 at 11:00 PM
Regional Meet & Greet

Connect with OBAP members new and old who live and work near you during this informal meetup for each OBAP region. 

August 7, 2025 at 8:00 AM — August 7, 2025 at 9:00 AM
OBAP Open House

Whether you're new to OBAP or looking to deepen your involvement, this is the perfect chance to connect with the OBAP community and explore all the ways you can engage with our mission.

Join us for the OBAP Open House to connect with other members, learn about our programs, and find out how you can give back and get the support you need.

Don’t miss this opportunity to get inspired and get involved!

August 7, 2025 at 9:00 AM — August 7, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Exhibit Hall Open

CLOSED from 2-3PM

August 7, 2025 at 9:00 AM — August 7, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Professional Headshots

Level up your LinkedIn and company bio with a fresh, high-quality headshot taken onsite at the OBAP Conference. Visit our Professional Headshot Station to get a complimentary portrait from a skilled photographer—perfect for updating your professional presence. Walk-ins welcome during designated hours,

August 7, 2025 at 9:30 AM — August 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM
Power Under Pressure: Turning Resistance Into Momentum

This 90-minute panle discussion will explore how Black professionals are navigating today’s challenging political landscape, including rising anti-DEI rhetoric, policy rollbacks, and broader efforts to suppress equity-focused progress. More importantly, it will be a conversation rooted in action: how we protect gains made, mobilize across sectors, and lead with purpose in 2025 and beyond.

August 7, 2025 at 12:00 PM — August 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM
Youth Luncheon presented by Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air

Celebrate youth acheivement during this annual luncheon on Thursday, August 7. 

August 7, 2025 at 2:30 PM — August 7, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Beyond the Flight Deck: Hidden Careers in Aviation & Aerospace

Think aviation is just about flying planes? Think again. This panel shines a light on exciting and often overlooked careers that keep the industry soaring—from drone operations and aircraft design to aviation insurance, and more. Hear from professionals working behind the scenes and discover new pathways to take your passion for aerospace further.
 

James Moody Jr. picture
James Moody Jr.
Kyle Jaracz picture
Kyle Jaracz
Marci Veronie picture
Marci Veronie
August 7, 2025 at 2:30 PM — August 7, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Take Control of Your Finances: A Guide to Building Long-Lasting Generational Wealth

Do you ever feel the heavy burden of trying to build real wealth that could last for generations? From securing your children's education to safeguarding your retirement, to preserving wealth for future generations, the path can seem daunting. At Intelliplan Financial, we've helped hundreds of families break free from a system that often works against them, empowering them to build real wealth that can endure for generations. Interested in learning how you can do the same? Join us for this exclusive presentation where we'll teach you how to take back control of your financial future and pass on these essential skills to your family and others.
 

Joe Overfield picture
Joe Overfield
August 7, 2025 at 4:30 PM — August 7, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Aerospace Professional Group Photo

Come in uniform for our annual group photo!

August 7, 2025 at 7:00 PM — August 7, 2025 at 9:00 PM
Thursday Night Social Event | Harlem Nights at The Queen presented by American Airlines

Say, cats and dolls, it’s time to cut a rug at Harlem Nights—where the jazz is hot, the drinks are flowing, and the tables are full of luck. We got tunes, high-stakes gambling, and a secret speakeasy just waiting for you to slip inside — it’s a combination that’s as sweet as Sugar Ray. Dress to the nines in your flapper flairs or zoot suits, and remember—the password is OBAP. Keep it on the QT, and let’s have a swell night of shakin’ a tail feather and tryin’ your luck at the tables.

Location | Emerald Queen Casino | 2500 E Bay St, Tacoma 98404

August 8, 2025 at 9:00 AM — August 8, 2025 at 11:00 AM
OBAP General Member Meeting presented by UPS

Join us for the OBAP General Member Meeting presented by UPS. Hear key updates from OBAP leadership, celebrate organizational milestones, and learn how you can stay engaged and make an impact. All members are encouraged to attend and be part of shaping OBAP’s future.

August 8, 2025 at 10:00 AM — August 8, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Exhibit Hall Open
August 6, 2025 at 12:00 PM — August 8, 2025 at 12:00 PM
Membership Celebration Luncheon

Celebrate OBAP members during this luncheon Friday, August 8.

August 8, 2025 at 2:30 PM — August 8, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Lifted by Legacy: 50 Years of Black Excellence in Aerospace

Join us for a powerful roundtable conversation with OBAP founding members as they reflect on the vision, challenges, and triumphs that gave rise to the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals. This special session honors the pioneers who laid the foundation for 50 years of progress, advocacy, and excellence in aerospace. As we prepare to celebrate OBAP’s milestone anniversary, this conversation will bridge the past and future—reminding us why we began and inspiring the work still ahead.

August 7, 2025 at 3:00 PM — August 7, 2025 at 5:00 PM
OBAP Board of Advisors Meeting
August 8, 2025 at 6:00 PM — August 8, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Annual Awards Gala Cocktail Hour presented by Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air

Gather in glitz and glam for a festive cocktail hour prior to our Annual Awards gala. 

August 8, 2025 at 7:30 PM — August 8, 2025 at 9:30 PM
OBAP Awards Gala presented by Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines and Horizon Air

Celebrate OBAP Excellence during our Annual Awards Gala on Friday, August 8.