The 2024 International Women’s Day theme emphasizes inspiring inclusion in the workplace to help recruit, retain and develop diverse talent. 

Increasingly, women have been ascending to leadership positions across the travel industry. A World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) study found that a rapidly rising number of women entered the travel industry between 2010 and 2019, increasing from 38.6 million to 47.8 million. These efforts were recently punctuated by the appointment of JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty, the first woman to lead a major U.S. airline. 

ARC is dedicated to amplifying female representation and leadership throughout our organization and the travel industry. In 2023, nearly half (48%) of all new hires at ARC were women. In the same spirit, ARC has committed to increasing female leadership through IATA’s 25by2025 global initiative to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion in aviation. ARC is also a sponsor of Women in Technology and hosts an employee resource group focused on helping women navigate our organization. 

We asked several women at ARC how they and our organization inspire inclusion within workforce. 

Tanya Nass, Vice President & Chief People Officer

“ARC supports its female employees in a variety of ways, including providing benefits that help support working mothers with work-life balance, such as 12 weeks of paid Family Medical Leave, flexible work schedules and the ability to work from home. The Women Empowered at ARC (WeARC) resource group strives to create safe and empowering spaces for women and female-identifying employees to achieve their full potential and thrive in their careers. To my female colleagues and women throughout the travel industry, I encourage you to take on new challenges that may lead you away from your comfort zone. It means you’ll learn new things, meet new people and possibly get some amazing new experiences.” 

Wendy Gilbert, Director, Data Services

I feel that ARC cultivates an inclusive atmosphere — evident in our daily exchanges, open conversations and shared commitment to mutual respect. At ARC, I believe individuals from various backgrounds feel genuinely valued and heard. In recent years, I've found support and empowerment among women in my field. A recurring theme in our conversations is the significance of authenticity and embracing the unique strengths and perspectives that women bring to our roles. It's about staying true to ourselves and being genuine, rather than conforming to a model that might suit others but not us.” 

Milvia Herrera, Senior Graphic and Multimedia Designer

"ARC leads by example when it comes to empowering women in leadership roles. Women make up half of our executive team and are in leadership positions in almost every department throughout ARC. You can’t talk the talk without walking the walking and ARC shows that as a woman, you can progress in your career regardless of your gender. There are women at ARC whom I admire deeply for being intelligent, outspoken, professional and eloquent while helping ARC succeed. I’m not someone who naturally speaks up for myself so having role models gives me a good blueprint for how to move throughout my career, even the tough parts.” 

Bree Armstrong, Web Developer

"ARC encourages me to try new things and expand my skill set. I joined ARC at the beginning of my professional career and always feel encouraged to share ideas and ask questions alongside my peers. I love that ARC’s leadership works to ensure that employee compensation is relative to industry standards regarding both skill and job expectations for everyone, regardless of gender. I feel like a valued employee here and that I have the opportunity to grow in my field.There’s also an emphasis on work and life balance that’s reflected throughout the organization. I feel comfortable knowing when I’m off the clock, I’m free to focus on life outside of work.” 

ARC recognizes and celebrates our colleagues for their accomplishments. Learn more about ARC’s culture and how we support women leaders.