An aviation leader with an Inspiring career spanning military service, Systems Engineering to aviation safety leadership.
Jill Browning is a Safety Manager and Air Safety Investigator at Sikorsky and an avid supporter of the USHST. Jill’s passion for aviation began long before she ever stepped into a cockpit. Growing up, Jill was inspired by her grandfather, who flew P-47 Thunderbolts during World War II. His stories, dedication, and love of flying sparked a lifelong interest that ultimately shaped both her military and civilian careers.
Jill earned her undergraduate degree in Engineering Physics before joining the U.S. Air Force, where she had the privilege of flying both the C-130E and C-130J Hercules. During 12 years of service on active duty and then with the Rhode Island Air National Guard, Jill gained invaluable experience operating in challenging environments while developing a deep appreciation for the importance of professionalism, teamwork, and risk management in aviation.
Following Jill’s military service, Jill earned a master’s degree in Systems Engineering from Cornell University and joined Sikorsky Aircraft, where she has spent the past 18 years serving as both an accident investigator and safety engineer. Throughout her career, Jill has had the opportunity to investigate accidents, identify systemic safety improvements, and work alongside incredibly talented professionals who share a common commitment to making aviation safer.
Jill became involved with the U.S. Helicopter Safety Team in 2010 because – like most safety professionals – Jill believes the best accident is the one that never happens. Jill’s efforts with the USHST have focused on preventing accidents related to spatial disorientation, inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions (IIMC), and fatigue. These are complex challenges that require a combination of education, technology, operational discipline, and a strong safety culture. Collaborating with the USHST has provided an outstanding opportunity to bring together expertise from across the helicopter industry to develop practical solutions that help pilots make better decisions and reduce risk.
Looking back, Jill is grateful that her grandfather’s example set her on this path. Today, Jill considers it a privilege to contribute to an organization dedicated to ensuring that future generations of aviators can operate more safely than ever before. Every lesson learned, every recommendation implemented, and every accident prevented is another step toward achieving our shared goal of eliminating fatal helicopter accidents.