By the mid 1920s, there was a decline in the amount of aviation
activity due in part to established companies using up surplus
aircraft after the First World War. As the years passed, there
was no longer a source of inexpensive aircraft or parts, and
many companies were unable to keep flying.
To remedy this decline, the Canadian federal government
sponsored the establishment of a system of aero clubs across
Canada to provide training for new pilots.
Edmonton had a strong community of aviation enthusiasts, and
in 1927 the Northern Alberta Aero Club was created with
Wop May as its first
president. There were a number of students enrolled in ground
school, who would soon graduate as pilots. Among these students
were a number of women, including a very enthusiastic Gladys