This week we are recognizing one of the eight 2026 Elsie award winners. Named after Elsie MacGill, the chief aeronautical engineer at Canadian Car and Foundry who oversaw the production of 1,451 Hawker Hurricanes during the Second World War, these are annual awards given by the Northern Lights Aero Foundation, an organization whose vision is “To be the Premier organization in Canada that inspires, supports, and promotes women in the field of aviation and aerospace.” You can learn more about the organization by clicking here.
The last of eight award recipients is featured this week.
Doris Ipeelee, recognized with the Rising Star Award
In 2024, Doris Ipeelee became the first Inuk woman from Nunavut to serve as a first officer on the Boeing 737 for Canadian North. Born and raised in Iqaluit, Doris relocated to Ontario to attend the First Nations Technical Institute, graduating from their aviation program. Prior to joining Canadian North, Doris flew Twin Otters in Oman and Australia, and she flew the ATR-42 and ATR-72 for Calm Air, based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Doris also holds a commercial drone operator’s licence, bringing a diverse technical skillset to the industry. She is a dedicated community leader, serving as a national director for Canadian Aviation Pride, promoting inclusion, diversity and mentorship throughout the aviation industry. She is a prominent role model for her family and community, demonstrating through actions what it means to pursue your dreams. Her commitment to public service extends to the ground, where Doris has served as a volunteer firefighter and emergency medical responder in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories.
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