Olga Bessolova's professional work began in aircraft design at TSAGI
(Central Aerodynamic Institute), the Soviet Union's top aerospace research
facility in 1980. In 1990 she was appointed Deputy Director (one of its
first women), responsible for Social Services and Finance, just as
perestroika (economic restructuring) signaled the collapse of Soviet social
infrastructures. Her successful management sustained social and medical
services for 15,000 employees and their families and led to her run for
mayor in 2001 (finishing a close second in a field of five).

Throughout this period Bessolova led notable NGO democratic initiatives,
gaining recognition as a women's movement leader. A delegate to the 1990
Soviet-American Women's Summit, she has co-chaired National Peace
Foundation's Russian projects since 1992.

Her Master's Degree in Administration and PhD work focused on finance,
social development and public/private partnerships in the Russian
transformation. Hired by a major aluminum corporation in 2001, Bessolova
served as its first Human Resources Director, also responsible for social
partnerships in cities across its 28 factory operations. She continues
partnership building today in Far East Kamchatka working with industry,
government and local populations in projects focused on developing economic,
social and educational opportunities.  Olga Bessolova is a leader in the
International Women's Forum and President of the Russian Federation of Women
Graduates, an affiliate of International Federation of University Women.