Join Mr Maillet as he we explores the groundbreaking life of Elsie MacGill, Canada's pioneering "Queen of the Hurricanes." Born in Vancouver in 1905, MacGill shattered barriers to become the world's first female aircraft designer and aeronautical engineer. Despite being struck by polio during her university years, MacGill's determination never wavered. She went on to play a crucial role in Canada's World War II effort, overseeing the production of over 1,400 Hawker Hurricane fighter planes that helped turn the tide of the war. But MacGill's legacy extends far beyond aviation. As a founding member of the Royal Commission on the Status of Women in Canada, she helped shape policies that advanced women's rights for generations. From breaking engineering barriers in the 1940s to championing equality in the 1960s, MacGill's story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering advocacy. Discover how a young woman from British Columbia rose to become one of Canada's most influential engineers and social advocates, leaving a lasting impact on both our skies and our society. This episode was made possible by the gracious support of the St. Peter High School Parent Council for their funding to receive a Maono Caaster Lite AU-AM200-S1 recording set up. Mr Maillet produced this episode to test the equipment on a Chromebook to better support students during the upcoming Academic Year.