I studied Pharmacy at college and have a master degree in Biochemistry so I started working as a pharmacist for 13 years, in hospitals, laboratories, industries, universities.
In 2009, I became First Lieutenant Pharmacist in Brazilian Air Force. I served for 8 years...
Then, a childhood friend of mine, who is a helicopter pilot, advised me to study aviation... it wasn’t that easy to take a decision, but I decided to switch carreer.
I started my aviation studies in 2013 and it took me 4 years to get the commercial license.
Now I have my Multiengine, Instructor and IFR licenses !!!
Lots of challenges along the way, including money
The course is very expensive to afford and my family couldn’t help me at all
The fact that I am a woman (I had to face many men who don’t like it)
My own family didn’t understand and felt betrayed about me changing carreer at 34 years old...
A big crisis in Brazil in 2014 (no new jobs).
Well, after a hard process of preparation and a long time waiting, God gave me a great opportunity to be hired in an air taxi company.
Currently, I fly a Bell 206 Jet Ranger. I live in São Paulo, but I work in Rio de Janeiro 16 days straight : panoramic flights.
Before this job, I used to work as a freelancer in an Agusta Power as a copilot and a Captain of a Robinson 22.
I’m very happy with my job now, and I hope to be able to fly a lot!
I loved to be a pharmacist as well, but at this time of my life, I want to fly. It’s where my heart and soul belongs.
Thank You Melissa for sharing your Journey with us ! Amazing experience and bravery to face all those challenges to reach your goals. Brazil must be incredible to fly over : so worth it ! You can find out more about this awesome woman on Instagram @mel_medrano_
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