Nicole Malachowski

'Nicole Malachowski is a retired United States Air Force Colonel, fighter pilot, and public speaker who has broken barriers and defied expectations throughout her career. She is best known for being the first woman to join the USAF Thunderbirds, the air demonstration squadron, and has flown over 188 combat hours in operations including the Iraq War. Her military career, spanning over two decades, is marked by numerous accolades and groundbreaking achievements. She was inducted into the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame and has earned the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, and the Aerial Achievement Medal among others. In addition to her military accomplishments, Malachowski is a fierce advocate for healthcare and veterans' rights. She was forced to retire from her military career due to a tick-borne illness, which has led her to become a passionate advocate for those suffering from similar diseases. As a speaker, Nicole Malachowski delivers powerful, inspiring messages that draw on her personal experiences. She speaks candidly about overcoming adversity, breaking barriers, and the importance of resilience. Her speeches are characterized by her authenticity, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of individual potential. She is a compelling voice for change and a role model for both women and men in and out of the military.'

Nicole Malachowski is a retired United States Air Force Colonel, a former fighter pilot and the first woman to join the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, also known as the Thunderbirds. She is a distinguished speaker and advocate for patients with tick-borne illnesses.