Alaskan Women in Aviation: Deb Ylijoki  

By Regan Tunstall 

“Deb’s passion for aviation started over 10 years ago when she worked as a tour guide for a helicopter company in Juneau, Alaska. Since then, Deb’s interest in aviation has grown exponentially. Currently, she is a flight follower with Pathfinder aviation while she’s also training to get her commercial fixed wing license. While time and funding present as significant challenges to pursue training, she finds great value in the resilient and resourceful community here. “It’s a fine balance of being patient and having perseverance.” Deb stated. She has many aspirations for her aviation career; flying seaplanes, multi engine aircraft and eventually for a commercial airline. She continues to work incredibly hard to keep her dream of flying alive and help other women achieve the same.” 

Best, 

Regan Tunstall