12 Facts About Bernice Steadman

Bernice Steadman was an American aviator and businesswoman.

Bernice Steadman graduated from Flint Central High School in Flint, Michigan.

Bernice Steadman took a job at AC Spark Plug after high school to save money for flight lessons.

Bernice Steadman obtained her pilot's license before she received a driver's license.

Bernice Steadman became a charter pilot and eventually opened her own flight school and charter company, Trimble Aviation, based in Flint, Michigan.

Bernice Steadman trained more than 200 men who ultimately became airline pilots at her school.

Bernice Steadman became one of the first women in the United States to obtain an Airline Transport Rating, the highest rating a pilot can receive.

Bernice Steadman was a charter member of the Federal Aviation Agency's on women's advisory committee on aviation.

Bernice Steadman chaired the Airport Commission in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Bernice Steadman was inducted into the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame in 2002 and the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame in 2003.

Bernice Steadman noted that US President Lyndon B Johnson had written "Stop This Now" across a document upon learning of the Mercury 13 project.

Bernice Steadman died at her home on Traverse City, Michigan, on March 18,2015, at the age of 89 following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's disease.