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 Walker.