United Rotorcraft Celebrates Jeanette Eaton During Women in Aviation Week

A Leader Driven by Mission, Innovation, Authenticity

GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO - Feb. 26, 2026 - As the aviation industry recognizes Women in Aviation Week, March 2 - 8, United Rotorcraft, a division of Air Methods, is proud to spotlight Vice President of Strategy and Business Development Jeanette Eaton. She is a leader whose journey from engineer to helicopter pilot to global sales executive reflects the very spirit of resilience, innovation, and service that defines the industry.

Eaton never set out to become a pilot. With multiple engineering degrees and a sharp analytical mind, she initially envisioned a future in helicopter sales. At the time, there were not many women in rotary-wing sales roles. A trusted mentor offered advice that would change the trajectory of her life.

"The advice was, 'Jeanette, you have all these degrees, but that doesn't mean anything to the guys in the field. They are going to chew you up and spit you out unless you can walk the walk, as well as talk the talk. You need to get your pilot's license.' That ignited a fire in me to get my license," said Eaton.

Though aviation had always seemed untouchable, particularly for a woman, Eaton embraced the challenge. She began flying fixed wing aircraft as an affordable entry point to learn the fundamentals before transitioning into rotary wing aircraft. What began as a strategic move to strengthen her professional credibility quickly evolved into a passion.

"Always open yourself to possibilities," Eaton said. "Especially the ones that feel just out of reach."

Today, she is a dual-engine commercial instrument pilot in both fixed wing and helicopter aircraft and has even just purchased her own airplane to stay current. For someone who once feared stepping into the cockpit, it is a full-circle moment.

Eaton's career path reflects both breadth and depth. She spent 17 years with Sikorsky, rotating through a prestigious leadership development program that included assignments in final assembly, finance, contracts and negotiations, government marketing, and program management. She later dedicated nearly a decade to Bell Flight, where she built flight hours as a helicopter pilot and expanded her knowledge of competitive platforms and global markets. She also held a leadership role at Lockheed Martin, further broadening her defense and aerospace expertise.

Her academic achievements are equally impressive, including advanced degrees from Boston University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Harvard Business School. Eaton credits hands-on experience and mission exposure as the most transformative aspects of her career.

Among her proudest professional achievements is her long-standing connection to the FIREHAWK® program. As a young engineer, she worked closely with fire agencies to understand mission-critical details.

"I remember sitting down with LA County, asking them why an expandable tank would not work, asking them why night firefighting and ground-fill operations, and head pressure and drop pattern of the tank were so important," said Eaton. "Fighting fires is so critical, and to be part of the design and the buildout of the program is a highlight of my career."

Not only did Eaton help design and build the aircraft, but she also managed the program and eventually led sales efforts. During pivotal moments for the program, Eaton advocated fiercely for its future, collaborating across organizations and navigating competitive and legal challenges to ensure its survival. Her commitment earned her the nickname, "Lady Firehawk."

Now approaching her first year with United Rotorcraft, Eaton leads global sales, marketing, and strategy efforts supporting firefighting, search and rescue, HEMS (helicopter emergency medical services), and defense medevac missions.

"Our mission is empowering first responders with technology and innovative solutions that save lives and protect the environment," she said. "When we truly can capture the voice of the customer and design around their mission, success follows."

Beyond her executive role, Eaton remains deeply committed to advancing women in aviation. She is a member of Whirly Girls International and Women in Aviation International, organizations that provide mentorship, scholarships, and community support for women pursuing aviation careers. She frequently sponsors young women attending industry conferences, shares lodging to reduce costs, and dedicates time to mentorship.

"When we aren't exposed to something, we don't know it exists," Eaton explains. "If I can help one young woman see that aviation is possible for her, it's worth it."

For Eaton, aviation is more than aircraft. It is about the mission. It is about supporting firefighters battling wildfires at night, search-and-rescue crews flying in difficult conditions, and medical teams transporting patients whose lives hang in the balance.

"We may not be on the front line," she says, "but we are responsible for ensuring those who are have the safest, most effective aircraft possible."

During Women in Aviation Week, United Rotorcraft and Air Methods proudly celebrate Jeanette Eaton - a leader who said yes to possibility, discovered unexpected passion, and continues to elevate those around her through mission-driven innovation and