Pia Staten — From Ground Crew to Aviation Tax Trailblazer

“I didn’t start behind a desk — I started in a vest.”

Pia Staten’s aviation journey didn’t begin in a conference room or cockpit — it began outside, on the ramp. She directed jets, lifted luggage, and worked front desk shifts in both private and commercial terminals.

Those early roles shaped everything: her work ethic, her understanding of aviation flow, and her belief that the climb matters just as much as the title.

Now, Pia works as an Aviation Tax Analyst, supports high-level clients, manages content across multiple brands, raises three children, and leads For The Aviation Girl — a lifestyle-meets-leadership platform for women navigating both the skies and the real-life demands on the ground.

✈️ A Day in the Life

Her mornings start with aviation tax reports, school drop-offs, and brand strategy calls. Midday might include client emails, Pilates, or filming content. Evenings are for helping with homework, updating blog drafts, and—when she can—hiking outside just to breathe and reset.

“Movement helps me think. Whether I’m on a trail, building a brand, or growing in my career, I always come back to clarity through motion.”

🧠 Cockpit Insight

“I still get nervous walking into certain rooms—especially when I’m the youngest or the only woman of color. But I remind myself: I didn’t end up here by accident. I earned my seat—even if I started out carrying bags.”
— Pia Staten

💕 Why She Built This

“I didn’t see enough women who looked like me in aviation. I didn’t see stories of people who started at the bottom and still made it bold. I wanted to create something that felt honest, warm, and motivating — not just about titles, but about momentum.”

For The Aviation Girl exists so women can see themselves in this industry, no matter where they start. It’s part leadership letter, part lifestyle, part legacy.

🛫 Pilot Profile

Name: Pia Staten
First Role in Aviation: Ramp Agent
Current Role: Aviation Tax Analyst
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Loves: Pilates, nature hikes, content creation, generational investing, and helping women grow on and off the runway
Follow Her:  LinkedIn

💥 She Belongs Here

This series celebrates women building altitude — from pre-solo to post-promotion. Because you don’t have to start at the top to take flight.

Want to be featured or nominate someone flying her own path?
👉 Submit a story here