Nicole Malachowski

Nicole became not only a successful pilot, but she also became the first female Thunderbird pilot and served as a squadron commander. She flew at twice the speed of sound, advised the first lady and proudly provided security for Iraq’s democratic elections in 2005. However, after 2 decades of serving in the US Air Force, Nicole’s life took an unexpected turn, when an illness forced her to retire from the career she had worked so hard to build. After being diagnosed with a neurological illness, speaker Nicole Malachowski had to learn to walk and talk for a second time. Yet she has no regrets. Her positive attitude and willingness to redefine herself have brought Nicole through hardship and helped her pursue her audacious dreams – and this attitude is infectious! As she speaks, audience members find themselves empowered to achieve their dreams. Aside from her great qualities as a speaker Nicole Malachowski also earned numerous rewards throughout her career. She is a White House Fellow, an inductee into both the National Women’s Hall of Fame and the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame and the aircraft, the very first woman to fly with the Air Force Thunderbird aerial demonstration team. Her online presence lights up virtual events and her indomitable spirit and sincerity will make the audience feel a range of emotions while she tells her story in a humorous and humble manner. Nicole is a prime example of bouncing back from hardships by working hard.