AMT Announces 8 Categories for Most Influential in Maintenance Awards

The Most Influential in Maintenance Awards recognizes exceptional professionals in the aircraft maintenance industry. From newly certified A&P mechanics to seasoned directors of maintenance, countless roles in aviation maintenance are crucial to keep the global fleet flying.

This awards program presents 8 categories which highlight and celebrate the various areas of aircraft maintenance and the people contributing to success and innovation across the industry. Eligibility for each category varies, so please make sure to submit all nominations to the appropriate category.

Professionals are encouraged to nominate themselves or colleagues whom they recognize as making excellent contributions in the area of aircraft maintenance. Candidates will be evaluated based on outstanding achievements and innovation as well as dedication and commitment to the industry.

1. AMT Rising Star Award 

The AMT Rising Star Award recognizes aircraft mechanics who are new to the industry and are making great strides in the early stages of their careers. This may be:

• A new hire who’s excelling in their assignments
• An apprentice who’s an exceptionally quick learner
• A newly certified mechanic consistently taking on advanced technical work

Eligibility requirements:

• 0-5 years in the aircraft maintenance industry
• Works as an aircraft maintenance technician/aviation mechanic/A&P
• Shows outstanding proficiency in aircraft maintenance and dedication to building a career in the aviation industry

2. Mechanic Mentorship Award

The Mechanic Mentorship Award recognizes excellence in maintenance education and training through tribal knowledge. Whether in meetings or on the shop floor, veteran mechanics have the opportunity to uplift and upskill the next generation of AMTs while in the workplace. This award highlights a veteran mechanic who has made a real difference for new talent, whether by:

• Teaching a newer AMT a must-know skill
• Encouraging career development in the aviation industry
• Actively mentoring newer mechanics on an ongoing basis

Eligibility requirements:

• Possesses advanced expertise in aircraft maintenance
• Showcases values of leadership and mentorship regularly in the workplace
• Engages with new/young AMTs consistently and impactfully, resulting in new technicians feeling supported and prepared for advanced work

3. A&P Innovator of the Year

The A&P Innovator of the Year award recognizes a certified A&P mechanic who has led by example in embracing change and innovation in aircraft maintenance. This award is meant to showcase the accomplishments of A&P mechanics who are trying out new methods and tools, even when they stray from tradition. This could mean:

• Completing additional training on hybrid-electric aircraft maintenance
• Learning how to implement AR/VR in the shop
• Leading the development of Safety Management Systems (SMS) or predictive maintenance procedures in the workplace

Eligibility requirements

• Must have A&P certification
• Has implemented an innovation in the workplace
• Has improved processes/efficiency/etc. by embracing new trends, tools, protocol, etc.

4. Outstanding Inspector Award 

The Outstanding Inspector Award recognizes mechanics with the Aviation Safety Inspector certification who go above and beyond in their duties. This credential requires A&Ps to put in extra work to achieve additional certification and ensures that inspectors are prepared to effectively evaluate the safety of mechanics, repair shops, programs and aircraft. Candidates for this award may:

• Perform an impressive number of inspections per year
• Show exceptional attention to detail when inspecting
• Contribute to the improvement of a shop’s operations and safety

Eligibility requirements

• Must have Aviation Safety Inspector certification
• Has achieved notable milestones related to aviation inspections (i.e. number of inspections completed, number of years renewing certification)
• Has a reputation for excellence when performing inspections

5. Top Trainer Award

The Top Trainer Award recognizes an AMT educator who specializes in hands-on training and practical learning. This can include professionals who train new mechanics in workshops, apprenticeships or technical and trade school programs. A Top Trainer may:

• Lead an especially successful apprenticeship program
• Act as a resource for students honing their skills
• Advocate for aircraft maintenance as a career path by supporting new talent

Eligibility requirements

• Works in a role that involves hands-on training for AMT/A&P students
• Has exceptional results preparing students for work in aircraft maintenance
• Inspires students to pursue careers in aviation maintenance and remain in the industry

6. Digital Pioneer Award

The Digital Pioneer Award recognizes an individual who has made exceptional progress in implementing next-generation technology into their maintenance operations. This award can apply to:

• An individual who successfully led the implementation of a new technology or tool
• A team leader who automated or digitized a procedure with exciting results
• A mechanic who’s seen real benefits from using next-generation ideas and innovations.

Eligibility requirements

• Has implemented a new system, software, tool or technological innovation in the workplace and/or has developed their own
• Showcases positive results from embracing technological changes in maintenance operations
• Inspires colleagues to embrace digitalization and new technology in the workplace

7. Excellence in Safety Management Award

The Excellence in Safety Management Award recognizes a professional who exemplifies outstanding safety management in an MRO facility or repair shop. Ideal candidates for this award include those who:

• Helped design an effective safety management system
• Led the implementation of a new SMS across a facility
• Educated colleagues about SMS and their importance in aircraft maintenance

Eligibility requirements

• Involved in the design, development and/or implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS) whether in-house or through consulting
• Displays positive results from developing and/or implementing an SMS
• Encourages the use of Safety Management Systems (SMS) to maintain compliance and optimal safety in repair stations

Green Wrench Award

The Green Wrench Award recognizes an individual who advocates for and prioritizes sustainability in aircraft maintenance operations. As sustainability remains a priority across the aviation industry, the maintenance sector can help reduce carbon emissions and popularize sustainable practices. For example, this award may apply to someone who:

• Replaced hazardous materials (i.e. cleaning agents/coatings) with biodegradable options
• Implemented green practices like solar power or Smart HVAC within an MRO
• Adopted recycling practices to reduce waste

Eligibility requirements

• Has notably enhanced sustainability in the workplace
• Showcases knowledge of modern MRO practices that can improve sustainability
• Exemplifies dedication to sustainability goals like reduced carbon emissions and increased fuel efficiency