In this week's episode of 'AVIATE with Shaesta,' we have the honor of conversing with Caroline "Blaze" Jensen, a heroic and inspiring figure in military aviation, leadership, and team-building strategies. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, Blaze has served in various capacities within the United States Air Force, including as a Thunderbird pilot, an instructor, and a Deputy Group Commander. Blaze's career has taken her from the flight deck of F-16s to classrooms where she has mentored the next generation of pilots, to the civilian sector by working for companies like Boeing, and onto global stages as a celebrated keynote speaker. In these capacities, she specializes in providing strategies and motivation for leading teams in high-pressure environments. As the former Vice President of Events and Exhibits at the National WASP WWII Museum, Blaze played a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation events and exhibits. Her passion for aviation extends beyond professional realms, offering free counseling to students interested in military aviation careers and showcasing her ongoing commitment to fostering the growth of future leaders. Additionally, she encompasses corporate know-how, having previously worked in the defense industry as the lead for business development on the $9.2B T-7A program. Blaze made history as the first woman qualified to fly in it and the first salesperson qualified to fly the product they were selling. Through her brave and demanding experiences, Blaze has gathered invaluable insights into the dynamics of leadership, teamwork, and resilience, which she eagerly shares to inspire and guide others toward excellence in their aviation endeavors. In our conversation, Caroline shares her journey from growing up in Wisconsin, inspired by her family's military background, to becoming a trailblazer in the Air Force, flying fighter jets, and serving with the Thunderbirds. She reflects on overcoming challenges, including gender barriers in the military, and emphasizes the importance of resilience, mentorship, and embracing failure as a pathway to growth. Caroline also discusses the significance of her connection with the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) and how their legacy of breaking boundaries and advocating for women in aviation has inspired her. She talks about the transition from active duty to motherhood, balancing her career ambitions with her responsibilities as a parent, and how this experience led to the creation of her children's book, "Thundermouse," an inspiring and engaging story for children of all ages. Throughout the conversation, Caroline offers insights into dealing with life transitions, advocating for self-compassion, goal visualization, and the importance of support networks. The dialogue ends with Caroline discussing her future endeavors, focusing on sharing her powerful story and hinting at a forthcoming book for adults. Our conversation is a rich exploration of resilience, ambition, and the transformative power of embracing one's path, both professionally and personally.
00:00 Intro
03:17 Introduction of Caroline "Blaze" Jensen, trailblazer in military aviation and leadership.
10:55 Blaze's early life in Wisconsin and inspiration from her family's military background.
12:58 Transition from active duty to the civilian sector and corporate roles.
17:35 Climbing the ranks and breaking barriers in a male-dominated field.
21:17 Blaze's leadership style, focusing on mentorship and resilience.
27:10 The importance of honoring the legacy of Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP).
29:59 Balancing career ambitions with motherhood and creating "Thundermouse."
39:10 Advocating for self-compassion and goal visualization.
45:17 Final thoughts and takeaways from Blaze's remarkable journey.
Caroline "Blaze" Jensen | Website
Caroline "Blaze" Jensen | LinkedIn
Caroline "Blaze" Jensen | Instagram
Caroline "Blaze" Jensen
Shaesta Waiz
Michael Wildes