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Carbondale Today
By the People, for the People
SIU's Paul Simon Public Policy Institute Hosts Trailblazing Pilot Theresa Claiborne
Claiborne was the first Black woman to serve as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force and later became a commercial airline captain.
Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:20am
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Theresa Claiborne, the first Black woman to serve as a pilot in the United States Air Force, will discuss her groundbreaking military career and the importance of expanding opportunities in aviation during an event hosted by the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Why it matters
Claiborne's story highlights the barriers that have historically existed for women, and especially women of color, in the male-dominated field of aviation. Her achievements as a trailblazing pilot and advocate for diversity in the industry serve as an inspiration for aspiring aviators.
The details
Claiborne was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force in 1981 and in 1982 became the Air Force's first Black woman to serve as a command pilot and instructor for the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker. She left active duty in 1988 but continued to serve in the Air Force Reserves, rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel before retiring in 1993 with over 3,000 military flight hours. Claiborne later joined United Airlines in 1990 as a first officer, becoming the second Black woman pilot at the airline. She went on to have a 34-year commercial aviation career, logging over 23,000 flight hours and becoming a captain on the Boeing 757/767 and 787.
- Claiborne will speak at an event on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 6 p.m.
- A reception is set for 5 p.m. on the same day in the Student Center's John W. Corker Lounge.
The players
Theresa Claiborne
The first Black woman to serve as a pilot in the United States Air Force, where she rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel. She later had a 34-year career as a commercial airline pilot, becoming a captain on the Boeing 757/767 and 787.
John Shaw
The director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, which is hosting the event featuring Claiborne.
Bill and Molly Norwood
Friends of Claiborne who have generously supported the lecture series that is bringing her to Carbondale.
What they’re saying
“Theresa Claiborne is an inspiring, trailblazing pilot and leader who set lofty goals for herself and then exceeded them with hard work and great skill.”
— John Shaw, Director, Paul Simon Public Policy Institute
“She is especially eager to see SIU's aviation program up close and to meet with students and instructors.”
— John Shaw, Director, Paul Simon Public Policy Institute
What’s next
Attendees are encouraged to submit questions for Claiborne on the registration form or by emailing the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.
The takeaway
Claiborne's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring aviators, especially women and people of color, and highlights the importance of expanding opportunities and representation in the male-dominated field of aviation.
