ING. JOYCE ASANTE: A Virtuous Amazon of Aviation Driven by a Passion for Excellence
For those women of valour who have worked assiduously to find their niches in the largely patriarchal aviation industry, much is certainly on the horizon when the game comes down to maintaining progress on all fronts in an industry whose dynamics traditionally revolve around safety, efficiency and a fanatical inclination towards the philosophy of sustainability. Little wonder, then, that these amazing amazons of aviation have come to be identified with a posture that is defined around doggedness, excellence, diligence, compassion and resilience. For Joyce Asante, an amazing amazon of aviation and the Director of Air Traffic Safety Engineering at the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, maintaining this posture has never come as a big deal.
Joyce Asante is an Electrical/Electronics Engineer by profession, having trained at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. She also has a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from the University of Ghana.
Joyce has been working in the aviation industry for over eighteen years and has risen through the ranks to her current role as the Director of Air Traffic Safety Engineering at the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, where she leads a team of Engineers and Technicians in the installation and maintenance of mission-critical air navigation infrastructure in the Accra Flight Information Region (FIR). This mission-critical infrastructure involves systems used to provide the Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) services that are necessary for Air Traffic Management.
Over the years, Joyce has served on various study groups and committees involved in developing guidance material and frameworks that seek to ensure that the air navigation infrastructure used to provide these safety-of-life services are robust. She is currently the project team lead for the surveillance team of the AFI Planning and Implementation Regional Group’s (APIRG) Infrastructure and Information Management (APIRG IIM SG).
Joyce also has a passion for mentoring younger ones, especially females, to get into the fields of Science, Technology and Engineering.
As Part of Air Traffic Safety Electronics International’s ongoing celebration of women in aviation, the Managing Editor, Adeyinka Olumuyiwa Osunwusi, PhD, caught up with Ing. Joyce Asante – our 52nd IFATSEA General Assembly Special Edition’s Amazon of Aviation – and here’s what she had to say:
As the Director of Air Traffic Safety Engineering in the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, what are some of the dynamic changes you are seeing today regarding the techno-operational aspects of air navigation services provision in Africa in general and the Accra FIR in particular?
The air navigation services landscape in Africa, particularly within the Accra FIR, is undergoing significant transformation driven by advancements in technology, increased air traffic demand, and the need for enhanced safety and efficiency. Key changes include the integration of satellite-based navigation systems, the implementation of performance-based navigation (PBN), and the adoption of advanced surveillance technologies like ADS-B. These changes are not only improving the precision of Air Traffic Management but also enhancing the overall safety and capacity of the airspace. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on collaborative decision-making (CDM) among stakeholders to optimize air traffic flow management across the region.
And how has the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority been responding to these dynamics?
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has been proactive in addressing these dynamics by investing in state-of-the-art air traffic management (ATM) systems and upgrading its communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) infrastructure. We have also prioritized training and capacity-building initiatives for our personnel to ensure they are well-equipped to operate and maintain these modern systems. Moreover, the GCAA has been actively collaborating with regional and international partners to harmonize air navigation services and ensure compliance with global standards, thereby enhancing the safety and efficiency of the Accra FIR.
How would you, then, describe the CNS/ATM sector in Ghana today in terms of infrastructure, system modernization and interoperability, regulatory compliance and operational efficiency?
The CNS/ATM sector in Ghana today stands as a testament to significant progress and ongoing modernization efforts. Our infrastructure has been substantially upgraded to meet the demands of modern aviation, with investments in state-of-the-art Radar systems, advanced communication networks, and satellite-based navigation aids. These enhancements have not only improved the accuracy and reliability of our air traffic management but have also positioned Ghana as a leader in air navigation services within the region.
In terms of system modernization, we have embraced cutting-edge technologies such as Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), which have transformed our airspace management. We have aligned our regulatory framework with international standards, particularly those set by ICAO, ensuring that our CNS/ATM systems operate within the highest safety and performance parameters.
Regular audits and assessments are conducted to maintain compliance and adapt to emerging global requirements. The synergy of modern technology, robust infrastructure, and a strong regulatory framework has made the CNS/ATM sector in Ghana both highly efficient and resilient, setting a strong foundation for future growth and development.
The Accra FIR’s Area Control Centre (ACC) is being rejigged and upgraded. What is the operational status of the new ACC now?
The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority is nearing the completion of its groundbreaking Air Navigation Complex project, which will serve as the new Area Control Centre (ACC) for the Accra Flight Information Region (FIR). This state-of-the-art facility is designed to significantly enhance the management of air traffic within the Accra FIR, reflecting the latest advancements in Communication, Navigation, Surveillance, and Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) technology.
Equipped with cutting-edge tools and systems, the new ACC will provide a more efficient and reliable platform for air traffic controllers to monitor and manage the region’s increasingly complex airspace. The facility features advanced radar systems, enhanced data processing capabilities, and integrated communication networks, all of which are essential for maintaining high safety standards and optimizing airspace utilization.
The ICAO-endorsed Safety Management System (SMS) initiative is widely acknowledged in the industry. How significant and relevant are the principles driving this initiative as far as the air traffic safety engineering sector of the aviation industry is concerned?
The ICAO-endorsed Safety Management System (SMS) initiative is crucial in the aviation industry, particularly in the Air Traffic Safety Engineering sector. SMS principles, such as risk management, safety assurance, and continuous improvement, provide a structured approach to identifying and mitigating safety risks. These principles are integral to maintaining high safety standards and ensuring the reliability of CNS/ATM systems. By embedding SMS into our operations, we can proactively address potential safety issues before they escalate, thereby safeguarding safety to the users of our airspace.
Would you say that the level of adoption of SMS principles within the African aviation realm is something to write home about?
The level of adoption of SMS principles within the African aviation sector has been commendable, but there is still room for improvement. While many African states have embraced SMS and integrated it into their regulatory frameworks, the consistency and depth of implementation vary across the continent.
Some regions have made significant strides, while others are still in the early stages of adoption. To enhance SMS adoption continent-wide, there needs to be a concerted effort to share best practices, provide training and resources, and foster a culture of safety that prioritizes SMS principles at all levels of the aviation industry. Some peer review exercises which have been conducted must be sustained in order to ensure sharing of best practices and industry experiences.
What do you think African aviation industry stakeholders should be doing to ensure a holistic and continent-wide adoption of SMS principles?
To ensure a holistic and continent-wide adoption of SMS principles, African aviation stakeholders should focus on strengthening regulatory oversight, enhancing regional cooperation, and investing in building the capacity of their human resource. This includes providing support to states that may lack the resources or expertise to fully implement SMS.
Additionally, there should be a greater emphasis on harmonizing SMS practices across the continent to ensure consistency. Stakeholders should also engage in continuous dialogue, technical exchanges and knowledge sharing, to keep up with evolving safety standards and emerging risks.
You have been a critical aviation industry stakeholder for quite a long time now. How would you describe your journey so far in a largely male-dominated industry?
My journey in the aviation industry has been both challenging and rewarding. As a female in a predominantly male-dominated field, I have had to overcome various barriers, but these experiences have also shaped me into a resilient and determined professional. I have been fortunate to work with supportive colleagues and mentors who have encouraged me to push boundaries and strive for excellence. My role has allowed me to contribute significantly to the safety and efficiency of air navigation services in Ghana, and I am proud of the progress we have made as a team.
What is your vision regarding the sustainability and enhancement of air traffic safety electronics practices and air navigation services delivery in Ghana?
My vision for the future of Air Traffic Safety Electronics and Air Navigation Services in Ghana is centered on sustainability, innovation, and continuous improvement. We aim to build on our current achievements by further modernizing our systems, adopting new technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive maintenance, and enhancing our resilience against cyber threats. Additionally, we are committed to fostering a culture of safety and excellence, where our personnel are continuously trained and empowered to deliver world-class services.
Now, let’s narrow the discussion down to issues revolving around inclusiveness and gender equality. What are your thoughts regarding the roles of women in the global aviation industry?
The role of women in the global aviation industry is critical, and their contributions are increasingly being recognized. However, there is still much work to be done to achieve true gender equality. Women bring diverse perspectives and skills that are essential for innovation and problem-solving in aviation. It is important for the industry to create more opportunities for women, provide mentorship and support, and actively promote gender diversity at all levels.
How would you describe the level of engagement of women in the Ghanaian aviation industry today and what should women be doing to claim their rightful place in the industry?
The level of engagement of women in the Ghanaian aviation industry is gradually increasing, but there is still a significant gender gap. Women are taking on more roles in various sectors of the industry, from engineering to air traffic control, but we need to do more to encourage young girls to pursue careers in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and aviation-related professions. Mentorship programs, scholarships, and awareness campaigns are essential to inspire the next generation of women in aviation. Women in the industry should also continue to advocate for their rights and take on leadership roles to pave the way for others.
Overall, what are your thoughts regarding the future of women in the context of the global aviation landscape?
The future of women in the global aviation industry is promising. With increasing awareness and efforts to promote gender inclusivity, more women are breaking through the glass ceiling and making significant contributions to the industry.
As we move forward, it is crucial to sustain this momentum by continuing to challenge stereotypes, support female talent, and ensure that women have equal opportunities to excel in all aspects of aviation. The future will see more women in leadership roles, shaping the direction of the industry and driving innovation. ◙
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