China started to train its first batch of 14 female pilots in 1951. In 1956 Miao, who graduated from a high school in Jinan, East China's Shandong province, won a position in the second batch after going through strict selection procedures and training.

She graduated from the flight school in 1958. In the following years, she flew many important missions, including transportation and emergency rescues, experiencing lots of dangerous situations.

In 1963 she undertook a mission to airdrop materials for the flood-stricken areas in North China's Hebei province. Poor visibility restricted her from locating the target areas as the clouds were about 100 meters above the ground. But her excellent skills secured a successful mission.