SUU Celebrates Two Exceptional Women in "30 Women to Watch" Feature
Published: September 05, 2024 | Author: Clare-Estelle Perkins | Read Time: 3 minutes
Southern Utah University is proud to be affiliated with two exceptional women featured in the Utah Business article on 30 Women to Watch in 2024. This recognition highlights the incredible achievements of Amelia Willden and Salinda Horrocks, both of whom have made significant contributions to their respective fields and embody excellence and dedication.
Amelia Willden: Advancing in Aviation
Amelia Willden's journey with SUU began in October 2019 when she joined the aviation team as an aviation student services assistant. Her role involved managing student flight operation records, which laid the foundation for her future advancements. A year later, Willden was appointed as an administrative assistant for the newly established Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Program. Her dedication quickly earned her the position of AMT Program Manager.
In her current role, Willden provides comprehensive academic support to all AMT students, She assists with advising, registration, and tracking program completions and certificates. She also oversees program budgets, facilitates internships, and contributes to curriculum development to ensure alignment with industry standards. Willden's dedication is fueled by her commitment to fostering female representation within the aviation industry, a field traditionally dominated by men.
“There are less than 10 percent of female aviation technicians in the U.S. and less than 20 percent of females in aviation leadership roles,” says Willden. “As a female, you can be in aviation. You can be a technician. You can be a pilot.”
Willden's academic achievements at SUU include earning her bachelor’s degree and working toward her master’s degree with a focus on leadership, online teaching and design, and aviation. She began her career as an English teacher in mainland China, an experience that taught her resilience. After returning home, she managed bookstores in Zion National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument before joining SUU's aviation department. But Willden is particularly proud of her role in building the AMT program where she is now aiming to inspire more women to pursue careers in aviation.
“I want to create and build a program that influences the industry,” says Willden. ”We are already setting standards, but we can do more.”
Salinda Horrocks: Leading in Event Planning
Salinda Horrocks discovered her passion for event planning during her college years at SUU while coordinating events for the Southern Utah University Student Association (SUUSA). This passion led her to found Preen Creations (now XM Labs) after relocating to Provo. Her reputation as an exceptional event planner landed her a corporate position at Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment, where she worked on a wide range of events such as concerts, NBA, Minor League Baseball, racing events, conventions, expos, and trade shows, as well as corporate and private events.
Salinda has been instrumental in spearheading some of Utah's most notable spectator experiences, including events executed safely during the COVID-19 shutdown. Currently, at Modern Expo & Events, she leads her team with enthusiasm and dedication to delivering exceptional experiences.
Salinda excels in creating unforgettable moments for people, integrating technology and process improvements, and leading and inspiring her team. She views herself as a catalyst for positive change and a champion for elite performance. Throughout her career, she has been surrounded by strong leaders and passionate teams dedicated to excellence.
“I have the privilege of working with a team that orchestrates experiences that leave a lasting impact on people’s lives. Whether we’re organizing a milestone celebration, a corporate event or anything in between, making these moments special is incredibly fulfilling”
Salinda's leadership philosophy emphasizes leading by example, learning from mistakes, and inspiring creativity. She strives to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes, demonstrating that one's capabilities and potential for success are determined by mindset.
Celebrating Excellence at SUU
Southern Utah University celebrates the achievements of Amelia Willden and Salinda Horrocks, examples of perseverance, leadership, and innovation. Their recognition in the "30 Women to Watch" article is a testament to their hard work and dedication. SUU is proud to support and honor their contributions to their fields and the broader community.
Tags: Management SPARC FacStaff Alumni SUUSA Aviation
Contact Information:
Brooke Heath
4355865400
brookeheath1@suu.edu