Michelle Curran, Thunderbird and F-16 Fighter Pilot

Today, my guest is Michelle “MACE” Curran, who led an impressive career as an F-16 fighter pilot during her 13 years in the United States Air Force. From 2019-2021, she flew as the only female pilot for the Air Force Thunderbirds and performed for millions across the country and internationally. Flying under the callsign “MACE,” she was the second woman ever to fly in the lead solo position for the Thunderbirds since the team’s founding in 1953.

Before joining the Thunderbirds, Michelle completed high-impact combat missions across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Through her career, Michelle has logged 1,500 total flight hours with the Air Force, including 163 combat hours in Afghanistan as part of Operations Freedom’s Sentinel and Resolute Support.

Since transitioning out of the military, she has founded her company, Upside Down Dreams, and is committed to empowering men and women of all ages to overcome obstacles and the fear of failure. She has inspired thousands through her passion for breaking barriers and setting the example of what can be accomplished through hard work. Michelle has been featured on several leading media publications and programs, including The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour. In 2021, she was named the Distinguished Alumna of the Year by the University of St. Thomas.