NATA is extremely pleased to recognize an individual or organization for outstanding contributions in safety, professionalism, leadership and excellence in the field of pilot training.
2024 - Stan McDuffie, Director of Operations and Flight Instructor, SunEx Aviation
2021/2022 - Jeffrey Wolf, Chief Flight Instructor, Paragon Flight Training
2019 - Todd Shellnut, CFI, Academy Standardization Manager, ATP Flight School
2018 - Western Michigan University College of Aviation
2017 - Janine Schwahn, Chief Instructor, Summit Aviation
2016 - Denis M. Arbeau, Manager of Training, Solairus Aviation
2015 - Ben Gabriel, Director of Training, ATP Flight School
2014 - Eric Walter, Chief Pilot, Primary Trainer, and Check Airman, Bemidji Aviation Services
2013 - Mike Paulson, Flight School Manager, Fargo Jet Center
2012 - Vinny Billisi, Vice President and Director of Operations, Airborne Systems Flight Training
2011 - Superior Flight School
2010 - William M. Hays, Owner, ATD Flight Systems LLC
2009 - Arlynn McMahon, Vice President, Aero-Tech, Inc.
2008 - William Griggs, Sr., Co-Owner, Aviation Facilities, Inc.
2007 – Susan Parson, Special Assistant, General Aviation and Commercial Division, FAA
2006 – Michael G. Gaffney, President, Skyline Aeronautics, LLC
2005 – Alex Unruh, Cessna Aircraft Company
2004 – Dr. Tim Brady, Dean, College of Aviation, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
2003 – John King, King Schools, Inc.
2002 – Dick Skovgaard, Flight Safety Academy (Vero Beach)
2001 – Irvin N. Gleim
2000 – Jim Hackman, Regional Manager, Cessna Pilot Centers
1999 – Frasca International, Inc.
1998 – Gregory (Greg) Brown, aviation consultant and writer
1997 – Phil Poyner, Manager, Nassau Flyers, Inc.
1996 – Rick Amber, founder of Challenge Air for Kids & Friends
1995 – Nancy Grazzini-Olson, President, Thunderbird Aviation
1994 – Flight Training Magazine
1993 –
1992 – Sierra Academy of Aeronautics
1991 – Albert A. Schnur, Chief Flight Instructor, Chester County Aviation, Inc.
1990 – Dawn Aeronautics, Inc.
1989 – Bolivar Aviation International School of Aeronautics
1988 – Robert G. Carter, Director of Flight Instructor Department, AOPA Air Safety Foundation
1987 – Gary B. Vander Veen, Chief Pilot, Tulip City Air Service, Inc.