The 2022 Safety & Health Expo Inspirational Speaker line-up has been announced, led this year by former fighter pilot Mandy Hickson. The show is held at London’s ExCeL from 17-19 May.
Mandy Hickson was one of the first female pilots to serve in a front-line Tornado GR4 squadron, playing an active role in the conflict in Iraq.
Obsessed with flying from a very young age, Mandy applied to join the RAF while at university. Despite failing the computerised tests twice, instructors passed her application, and she was soon on the path to joining an elite group of fast jet pilots. After twenty years’ service, she now talks about the personal and strategic lessons learned with frankness and appropriately wry humour.
From motivation to decision-making, Mandy gives a vivid insight into the leadership, teamwork and communication required to define and then realise specific goals in high-pressure situations. She also highlights the value of honest and open debriefing after any project or phase; something the Royal Air Force always do, but which businesses often overlook.
In addition to conference presentations, Mandy also leads workshops designed to pinpoint how delegates react to given situations challenging teamwork, communication and decision-making.
“Just because someone else does not believe it’s possible, don’t let their fears rub off onto you. It is amazing what you can achieve when you work hard and maintain a positive attitude. Be nice and kind to everyone as you never know when you may need their help.”