Vanessa boasts 47 years of extensive professional involvement in aviation, including 30 years in leadership roles. She is the Executive Director of The Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP). In this role, Vanessa is a member of the Executive Committee, ensuring the organization accomplishes its mission and vision. She leads nine staff, manages the responsibilities of OBAP’s assigned professionals, and coordinates a team of volunteers, ensuring that OBAP meets and exceeds established targets and expectations. Vanessa’s responsibilities encompass human resources, fund development, information technology,
facilities, events, and special projects.

Before joining OBAP, Vanessa held roles with the Federal Aviation Administration and worked as a Change Advisor and Leadership Coach (PCC). Her role involved being a trusted advisor to executives and senior leaders. Leveraging her extensive expertise, Vanessa provided invaluable guidance, concentrating on cross-agency and nationwide initiatives to improve organizational performance. She focused on resolving business challenges and executing solutions to enhance organizational effectiveness, drive process improvements, and facilitate strategic changes. Additionally, Vanessa conducted one-on-one coaching sessions, as well as team and group coaching tailored for executives, middle managers, and frontline supervisors.

She culminated her career at United Airlines as the Senior Manager overseeing Emergency Procedures Training for pilots and flight attendants on a global scale. Vanessa holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s degree in business management. Her education, combined with her extensive professional experience, makes her a highly effective leader and exceptional coach.