Aviation · Speaker · Author
Michelle "MACE" Curran
From the cockpit to the stage.
- 01F-16 fighter pilot
- 02Former Thunderbird Lead Solo
- 03Speaker & author
The story
Michelle “MACE” Curran served for 13 years in the United States Air Force as an F-16 fighter pilot. From 2019 to 2021, she flew with the Thunderbirds, becoming the second woman to serve as the demonstration team’s Lead Solo.
Her speaking and writing explore courage, trust, overcoming fear and navigating change. She brings experience from high-performance aviation to conversations about leadership and personal growth.
Her children’s books grew out of conversations with young people during her time with the Thunderbirds. Through the character Lilly Padilly, she connects the excitement of flight with stories about self-belief, mistakes and pursuing a goal.
In focus
Leadership under pressure+
Stories from the cockpit connect preparation, trust and courage with the decisions people and teams face every day.
Upside Down Dreams+
A children’s story following Lilly Padilly as she discovers aviation and finds the confidence to pursue her dream.
What’s Your Callsign?+
Lilly and her grandfather explore mistakes, identity and the choices that follow a setback.
The Flipside+
Curran’s account of leaving the cockpit and rebuilding a life with purpose, drawing on lessons about fear, excellence and change.
Make the connection.
References & photography
Prepared at 4K dimensions without generative enhancement; original source resolution varies.
Career reference 1