In the Know: Wanda L. Rogers

By Lindsey Ashjian

Wanda L. Rogers, President of Rogers Helicopters, has been honored by Fresno Magazine as the first-ever recipient of the Fresno Magazine Trailblazer Award. The Trailblazer Award was designed to honor a local Valley woman for her dedication to being a business professional and for leading by example.

Fresno Magazine was thrilled to present the award to Rogers during its recent Women in Business Conference in recognition for her achievements in the business world.

“It is an honor to be the first-ever recipient of the Trailblazer Award, recognizing women in business,” said Rogers. “To be in the room with so many accomplished and ambitious women was a pleasure. I know that one day we will be reading about their great accomplishments as well.”

Rogers was also recently honored with Lawrence D. Bell Memorial Award by the Helicopter Association International (HAI) for her long-time service to the civil helicopter industry. Rogers is the first-ever female recipient.

The Lawrence D. Bell Memorial Award is not the only first-time female achievement for Rogers, as she has been paving the way for women within the predominantly male helicopter industry for the past 44 years. A motivated business woman, Rogers has earned many industry first-time female achievements.

““My love for aviation and helicopters has taken me on a great career path that has both challenged and rewarded me,” said Rogers.

The Lawrence D. Bell Award was established in 1971 to salute excellence in management leadership, and is granted to individuals for long and significant service within the civil helicopter industry.

Rogers co-founded Rogers Helicopters in 1962 with her husband Harry. In addition to her active career, Rogers is a true community servant, volunteering time and providing financial resources in support of education, healthcare and civic causes.

Rogers Helicopters is one of the largest independently-owned helicopter operators in California and has been in business in the Fresno/Clovis area for more than 44 years. The company provides on demand helicopter and airplane charters, maintenance, and logistical support to companies throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the world.

The Trailblazer finalists were Beth Gagliardi, Loree Sisterson, Jane Olvera Quebe, Dr. Karen Hansen-Smith, M.D.; Vickie Kasprzyk, Gena Kirby, Yvette Rebella, Diane Young and Rosalinda Tovar.