Training and Workforce
NGPA at Forefront of Industry's Struggle for More Diversity
The NGPA claims to have 5,000 active members and 11,000 supporters in its network.
NGPA event
The NGPA said it has 5,000 active members and 11,000 supporters in its network. (Photo: NGPA)

When Justin Ellixson-Andrews congratulated a prominent industry professional on winning a leadership award, the colleague responded on social media by saying: “Justin, I’m honored to call you a friend.” As executive director of the National Gay Pilots Association (NGPA), based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ellixson-Andrews helps to build, support, and unite the world's LGBTQ+ aviation community.

In comparing the gay experience in the commercial and business aviation industries, he said there is little difference between the two. “Business aviation is a little slower to react to some of the advances that we’ve been able to accomplish,” he told AIN in an interview.

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