Name: Christine Lyon Kupernik
Place of Employment: Lyon Aviation, Inc.
Title: Owner/CFO
What is your 3 sentence biography? / What is your personal elevator pitch? I am a second generation co-owner of Lyon Aviation, who, along with my siblings, was influential in growing Lyon Aviation from a small “mom & pop” regionally focused business into a leader in the global private jet industry. Having been raised in this family business, I have a deep passion for its success and the success of the dedicated people that work with us. As a lifelong resident of the Berkshires, I have a strong appreciation for positively impacting economic growth, cultural enrichment and youth development in our community.
Tell us about the challenges you faced on your path, and what you learned from it.
Like many industries, aviation is a male-dominated world. I learned to challenge the status quo and not be afraid to offer opinions and ideas. I learned to be confident, persistent, and create the ripples (or the waves) needed to have my voice heard.
What “secret to success” would you share with young women entering the (Berkshire) workforce?
“Knowledge is power” …this is a quote my daughter Jayde often uses in her pursuit of taking over the company reigns. Educate yourself, read, research, and ask the questions so that you grasp the foundational concepts of all areas of a business. You don’t have to master all areas but gain an appreciation of how each area interacts with the other and ultimately how they all work toward the overall success of the company. Believe in yourself. Move outside of your comfort zone and bring ideas and solutions to the table, not just complaints and complacency. Know that your ideas won’t always be accepted but don’t let that stop you from participating at the table. Failure is an inevitable part of success. Don’t let it affect your confidence but rather embrace it as a learning experience. Most
important, LOVE what you do.
What Berkshire women in business inspire you and why?
Gwendolyn VanSant, CEO & Founding Director of Multicultural BRIDGE. Gwendolyn is a champion of diversity and inclusion working tirelessly for equity, racial justice, acceptance, and change. Her vision and passion for a better world will have a long-lasting and far-reaching impact on our society. Gwendolyn is a remarkable force and a truly inspiring woman.