Nicole Malachowski - Pilot

Colonel Nicole Malachowski, USAF (Ret.) is a trailblazing fighter pilot and keynote speaker who inspires audiences with her remarkable career and powerful personal story of resilience. A combat veteran and 21-year Air Force officer, she was the first woman to fly with the Thunderbirds, the USAF’s elite Air Demonstration Squadron, and has over 2,300 flight hours in six different aircraft, including the F-15E Strike Eagle.

Nicole led fighter formations in combat, including securing the airspace during Iraq’s first democratic elections, and commanded the 333rd Fighter Squadron, training the next generation of combat aviators. Her leadership extended beyond the cockpit with roles at the Pentagon and as a White House Fellow. She served as Executive Director of the Joining Forces initiative, advising First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden on veteran and military family issues.

After a tick-borne illness nearly ended her career, Nicole faced a life-altering health battle that left her temporarily unable to speak or walk. Her journey back fueled a new mission: to empower others to rise beyond adversity. As a speaker, she challenges audiences to embrace risk, resilience, and authenticity in the face of change.

Nicole holds two master’s degrees in national security studies and has received numerous honors, including inductions into the National Women’s Hall of Fame and the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame. Today, she advocates for veterans’ health and tick-borne disease awareness, while continuing to inspire with her message of resurgence and possibility.