Meet the Team - Women in Aviation - Savana Glod - Beech 1900 First Officer

Name: Savana Glod

Job Title: Beech 1900 First Officer 

Years at CMA: 1

What first sparked your interest in aviation, and how did that initial curiosity turn into a career?

I was introduced to aviation in Grade 11 through a friend whose parents are both captains on the 787 with WestJet. Wendy Peterson his mom, shared her experience in the industry and guided me through the first steps.

I was drawn to the idea of a dynamic career that constantly challenges me and looks different every day. I went on to complete my licences through the Aviation Diploma program at Mount Royal University, and I’ve loved the journey ever since 

What is your current role at the airline, and what does a typical day look like for you?

I am a First Officer on the Beech 1900D. I fly passengers and cargo mainly throughout British Columbia, operating into major airports and small gravel strips in Northern BC through mountainous terrain. Every day is different, which is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

What has been the most rewarding moment of your aviation career so far?

Being hired at Central Mountain Air was incredibly meaningful. After two years of late-night studying and hard work, earning my first type rating and stepping into the right seat as a professional pilot felt like everything had paid off.

Was there a defining moment when you knew aviation was where you belonged?

My first mountain flight. Flying so close to the peaks and experiencing the scale of the terrain was unforgettable. Now, I get to experience that environment every day at work, and it still hasn’t lost its magic.

What unique strengths do you think women bring to aviation and regional airline operations?

I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredibly qualified women at CMA who give 100% to their work every day. My experience in this industry has been supportive and professional. Seeing strong, capable women in leadership and operational roles reinforces that excellence and dedication, not gender define success in aviation.

What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you navigate them?

Transitioning between training phases and aircraft has been challenging at times. There are moments when new systems or procedures feel overwhelming. 

I’ve learned that those phases are temporary and that feeling stretched usually means you’re growing. Breaking things down step by step, putting in the extra study time, and showing up prepared each day has helped me build confidence. What once felt overwhelming eventually becomes second nature.

Who has mentored or influenced you along the way?

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by supportive friends and family throughout this journey. Doing all my training alongside such a great group of classmates and dedicated instructors in flight school made a huge difference. Having people to study with, celebrate milestones with, and call after a tough flight was invaluable.

I’ve also been influenced by one of the Captains I fly with at CMA, Laura Mcantemy. She is exceptionally experienced, confident, and highly respected. Watching the level of trust others place in her judgment and decision-making has been truly inspiring.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in aviation — especially in a regional airline environment?

Keep working at it. This career is incredibly rewarding and so much fun. Transitioning between aircraft and learning new systems can feel overwhelming at times, but if you stay consistent and keep putting in the work, it truly pays off.

I’d also encourage you to make connections early and often. Introduce yourself to everyone. Aviation is a small industry, and the relationships you build matter. The people around you will become mentors, supporters, and lifelong friends.

How do you maintain balance between a demanding aviation career and your personal life?

When you genuinely love what you do, it becomes a part of who you are. I look forward to going to work, which makes the balance feel natural. Aviation is demanding, but it’s also super fulfilling.

If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of career advice, what would it be?

Ask questions. Aviation is a career where you should constantly be learning and improving your understanding of the operation. You gain so much by asking experienced pilots about their decision-making and by learning from the people around you. Finding a study group, bouncing ideas off each other, and building strong connections make the process more effective and far more rewarding. The more you engage, the more you grow.