Michelle Curran Biography

Michelle "MACE" Curran is a former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, motivational speaker, and author. She had a 13-year career in the Air Force, where she flew F-16 fighter jets, logging over 1,500 flight hours, including 163 combat hours in Afghanistan during Operations Freedom’s Sentinel and Resolute Support. From 2019 to 2021, Curran was the only female pilot in the elite Air Force Thunderbirds, serving as the Lead Solo Pilot (Thunderbird #5), making her the second woman ever in that role since the team's founding in 1953. She performed for millions across the U.S. and internationally, inspiring audiences with high-speed maneuvers like the vertical roll, often set to No Doubt’s “I’m Just a Girl.”

Curran grew up in a small town, studied criminal justice at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, and joined the Air Force through ROTC, initially driven by a thirst for adventure. She trained as an F-16 pilot, served in Japan at Misawa Air Base, and later became an instructor pilot in Texas, where she was the first woman to fly with the 335th Fighter Squadron. After leaving the military in 2021, she founded Upside Down Dreams, a company focused on empowering others to overcome fear and failure, and wrote a children’s book by the same name. 

She's a sought-after speaker who shares her experiences with vulnerability, imposter syndrome, and resilience. She has appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show, CBS Evening News, and Glamour. In 2021, the University of St. Thomas named her Distinguished Alumna of the Year. She also volunteers with the Veteran’s Outdoor Advocacy Group. Her call sign "MACE" reflects her strength and resilience, earned through overcoming self-doubt in a high-pressure, male-dominated field.

As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Michelle Curran's expertise is in high demand. To book Michelle Curran for your next event, conference, or workshop, please contact our speaker booking agency. Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and help secure Michelle Curran's participation. With our professional guidance and seamless booking process, you can ensure a memorable and impactful experience for your audience. Don't miss the opportunity to engage your audience with Michelle Curran's compelling insights and inspire positive change within your organization. Fill out the booking request form to take the first step in securing Michelle Curran for your next speaking engagement.