2019 Award Recipients
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Wright Brothers Memorial Award
Nicolas Finazzo
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Executive Chairman
The Greater Miami Aviation Association Wright Brothers Memorial Award is the most prestigious of the GMAA’s awards. It is presented to individuals who have demonstrated innovation, vision, perseverance, and have transformed their industry segment. The WB award recognizes such revered leaders for their success in transforming their business and creating a lasting economic impact on our community.
Juan Trippe Award
Rafael Alonso
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Past President; Airbus, Latin America and Caribbean
This award recognizes the significant contributions made by an individual to the development of international aviation. Juan Trippe started Pan American World Airways, Inc. in 1927. Under his leadership, Pan Am essentially started America’s commercial aviation advances overseas by pioneering international routes and operating global daily flights.
Glenn Curtiss Award
Derry Huff
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Vice President; Sales & Marketing
The Glenn Curtis Award, named for one of the GMAA founders and himself, an aviation and urban pioneer and innovator, recognizes extraordinary individuals whom have contributed to the air transport, MRO, business and private aviation sectors in the Americas. The recipient demonstrates innovation, extraordinary customer support and product quality, as well as in the field of education.
Edward V. Rickenbacker Award
John Evans
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Founder/CEO; Jetscape/Azorra
The Edward V. Rickenbacker Award is named for the former Chairman & CEO of Eastern Air Lines, who helped make South Florida a major aviation center and set his example of American work ethics. Rickenbacker was also a WWI flying ace who fought bravely for our country. This award recognizes individuals demonstrating courage, perseverance, work ethics and charitable work.
The Pioneer Award
Lt. Col. Harold Brown
Tuskegee Airmen
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This award is given to demonstrate deep appreciation to an individual who has dedicated their life to the aviation industry and is revered by his peers to be an outstanding role model. Recipients either achieved a unique pioneering status, or have demonstrated consistent integrity over many years.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Konrad J. Walter
CEO: Taking Aviation Forward; Managing Partner: TMSaero
(View Bio)
The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual who has dedicated their entire professional life to the Aviation industry. The award recognizes a constant demonstration of perseverance, integrity, leadership and mentorship. The achiever is recognized by his peers as someone who has personally contributed his time and effort to promote and elevate the status of our industry.
Corporate Achievement Award
(About Regional One)
This award recognizes the contributions of a corporation or an association to the aviation industry and the South Florida Community.
