Women's History Month Cintia Ceccarelli
Women’s History Month Spotlight: Cintia Ceccarelli
In honor of Women's History Month, Bristow is shining a spotlight on the women who make Bristow soar. This interview features Captain Cintia Ceccarelli from our Brazil operations.
Talk about your role at Bristow?
I joined Bristow as a first officer 10 years ago, and I was promoted to AW139 captain in December 2019. Despite all the challenges of working in a mostly male environment, I love my new role, and I'm lucky to be surrounded by remarkably professional and capable colleagues who respect and support me.
What is a recent success you're particularly proud of?
On February 15, 2021, which also happens to be my birthday, I was honored to lead the first all-female flight in Bristow Brazil’s history. I had the pleasure of making this flight with Captain Nathalia Correa. This fulfilled a long-time goal for our team of four female pilots at Bristow Brazil. Operations Manager Captain Leandro Antunes orchestrated the flight and we are all thankful for his support!
What are some challenges you've faced in your career? How did you overcome them?
In my previous answer, I talked about the first all-female flight in Bristow’s Brazil history that took place this year. This flight was a far cry from when I joined the company 10 years ago as the only female pilot. I was the only female pilot for two years before Captain Danny joined the company. Those early days of being the only woman flying for the company were quite challenging. Thankfully, the company has changed a lot since then. These days, I have three other female pilots on my team, and we’re surrounded by very supportive colleagues.
In addition to being the only female pilot at my company, I had moved to an entirely new place to take the job, and I came here with only my daughter, who was 13 years old at the time. This was a very lonely and difficult time in my life. But it challenged me to grow and be stronger. I learned a lot during this time about what it means to be an independent woman in the world. It’s not easy, but we somehow find a way to manage it and use the experience to become better people!
Who inspires you (work, personal or historical)?
I'm a Buddhist and a devoted follower of the Dalai Lama. I strongly believe the world would be a better place if we could all be more compassionate and concerned about others. The Dalai Lama says, “My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.” And I try to keep these words in mind and my heart, and let them guide my actions. Being kind is so important; it can – and does! – change the world!
What advice do you have for women just beginning their career?
Believe in yourself! Study hard, apply yourself and persist. Aviation is an extremely dynamic industry, and things happen really fast; so, take every opportunity to learn and stay current. Remember that women always should look for ways of supporting one another. Always.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I meditate daily, and I love to do CrossFit as physical activity. I also love being active outdoors – hiking and visiting waterfalls are some of my favorite things to do! On rainy days, when I can’t enjoy the sunshine, I really appreciate watching a movie with a glass of good wine.