PropelHER: Leaders in Aerospace Advisory Committee

PropelHER: Leaders in Aerospace Advisory Committee

In November, we let you know about our third cohort of Women in Aerospace (now called PropelHER at DHC). It’s a 10-month program that supports DHC’s commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion, as well as expanding leadership opportunities for women at DHC and in the aerospace industry. 

Now, it’s our pleasure to announce the PropelHER: Leaders in Aerospace Advisory Committee. Their purpose is to ensure the PropelHER program is run and maintained in accordance with DHC’s commitment to drive innovation and help develop women leaders at DHC.

The committee provides strategic leadership and direction to the PropelHER initiative at DHC, leads PropelHER program calendar activities, and works towards establishing a sense of community amongst the organization’s diverse workforce.

Their Roles for the Upcoming Year

@Shreya Mishra – Chair (Calgary)
@Susie Pearce – Outreach Coordinator / Co-Chair (Victoria) 
@Sandra Charnet – Operations Conference, PropelHER Coordinator (Toronto)
@Lorne West – International Women’s Day Event Manager (Calgary)
@Calida Lara – Book Club, PropelHER Program Manager (Calgary) 
@Chloe Tai – Internal Communications Coordinator (Victoria)

DHC gives a heartfelt thanks to all of them for their diligent work in this important initiative, and big thank you to Stephanie MacDonald, who served on the committee last year, and is now moved on from DHC to pursue other opportunities.

Now, let’s hear a little more about 2025’s committee.

Shreya

With a degree in aerospace engineering from Toronto Metropolitan University, Shreya launched her career in the aerospace sector as a Quality intern at an aerospace manufacturer company, working on multiple landing gear components and assemblies. In her current role, she is involved in certification of the next-generation Canadair 515, while also providing support for continuing airworthiness initiatives.

Outside of her professional work, Shreya is an avid tennis player, a skilled pianist, and an enthusiastic reader. She is also a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) certified scuba diver and enjoys exploring the outdoors.

Susie

Susie Pearce has been with DHC since early 2018. She is responsible for all the Manufacturing Quality teams in YYJ, Toronto, CGY1, and CGY3, ensuring parts compliance and that suppliers meet requirements. Susie was part of the first cohort of the DHC Women in Aerospace Program, leveraging the tools and skills gained to overcome barriers and build the confidence needed to advance within the quality department.

In her free time, Susie enjoys walking her dog, engaging in arts and crafts with her young daughter, who has special needs, and volunteering for various charities. She is currently exploring new skills, including quilt-making.

Sandra

With over two decades in the aerospace industry, Sandra has held customer-facing roles at Embraer in Brazil and at Bombardier in Canada, where she developed processes to enhance customer experience. Currently, Sandra works as a Customer Account Manager at De Havilland Component Solutions. 

Passionate about the outdoors and traveling, she brings a global perspective and dedication to improving customer satisfaction. Sandra is very social and enjoys helping others, fostering strong relationships both professionally and personally.

Lorne

With a career spanning over 20 years in aerospace, Lorne has seen his work sail the seas, fly amongst the clouds, and orbit the planet. He has an insatiable curiosity and a lifelong passion for aerospace and strives to share with those around him. He is committed to staying close to the work he does, remaining connected to the output while collaborating on how the work gets done.

When not working, Lorne can be found spending time with his family, in front of a piano, or on his bicycle. 
 

Calida

Calida Lara has 29 years of experience in the aviation and aerospace industry, specializing in Operations, Sales & Business Development, and Legal Contracts & Compliance. Over the course of her career, she has held key roles that have allowed her to bridge the technical and business aspects of the industry, contributing to both operational excellence and strategic growth. She is the Senior Contracts & Compliance Manager for DHC, and plays a critical role in overseeing contract negotiations, ensuring compliance requirements are met, and managing risk for her organization.

Calida enjoys spending her free time with her family and friends, reading, taking long walks with her dog, and has recently renewed her interest in learning to play guitar.

Chloe

Chloe is a dynamic and highly skilled procurement professional with a passion for continuous learning and development. Born and raised in Malaysia, Chloe is fluent in five languages, enabling her to excel in international environments and communicate effectively across diverse cultures. Chloe holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a specialization in Economics from the University of Victoria. In 2018, she joined DHC as an Executive Assistant to the EVP of Operations, transitioning into the field of supply chain and procurement management in 2021.
 

Chloe is passionate about music and has achieved ABRSM Grade 8 in Piano. Additionally, Chloe enjoys traveling and hobbies that allow her to explore new cultures and creativity.