The 2026 General Aviation Awards winners have been announced, recognizing outstanding contributions to flight instruction, aircraft maintenance, and aviation safety across the United States.
The annual awards program, conducted in partnership with the FAA and supported by leading aviation organizations, highlights individuals who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, leadership, and long-term commitment to the aviation community. Candidates are nominated at the local FAA district level, advance through regional selection, and are ultimately chosen as national honorees.
For 2026, the national award recipients represent a wide range of experience—from military aviation and advanced flight instruction to grassroots safety advocacy and owner-focused aircraft maintenance.
National Winners for 2026
The three primary national awards are:
- Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI) of the Year: Mike “Cuckoo” Kloch (Bend, Oregon)
- Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) of the Year: Roger Whittier (Phoenix, Arizona)
- FAASTeam Representative of the Year: Mike Jesch (Orange, California)
These individuals were selected from a nationwide pool of top-performing aviation professionals and represent the highest level of recognition within the General Aviation Awards program.
CFI of the Year: Mike “Cuckoo” Kloch
Mike “Cuckoo” Kloch, based in Bend, Oregon, has been named the 2026 National CFI of the Year. His background reflects a rare combination of military aviation, advanced instruction, and industry leadership.
Kloch is a former U.S. Marine Corps combat pilot and has accumulated more than 8,300 flight hours across over 75 aircraft types. His experience spans high-performance military jets such as the F/A-18 Hornet, classic trainers like the Fouga Magister, and a wide range of general aviation aircraft including Carbon Cubs and helicopters.
He is currently the CEO and Chief Instructor of Specialized Aero Works (SAW), a training organization known for its focus on advanced flight instruction and risk management. Kloch is particularly recognized for his work in Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) and is among a small group of instructors in the United States offering Part 141-approved UPRT programs.
His professional credentials include multiple designations as a Master CFI, including aerobatic specialization, and active involvement in instructor development and evaluation. He also contributes to the broader aviation community through speaking engagements at major events such as EAA AirVenture and the Northwest Aviation Conference, as well as through industry discussions as cohost of the Aviation Rant podcast.
In addition to instruction, Kloch works as a contract test pilot, supporting aircraft development and evaluation programs for companies such as Epic Aircraft and Stratos Aircraft. His selection as CFI of the Year reflects both technical expertise and a sustained commitment to improving pilot proficiency in complex and high-risk flight scenarios.
Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year: Roger Whittier
Roger Whittier of Phoenix, Arizona has been named the 2026 National Aviation Maintenance Technician of the Year.
Whittier is an FAA-certified A&P mechanic with Inspection Authorization (IA) and an instrument-rated private pilot, bringing both technical and operational perspectives to aircraft maintenance. He operates a maintenance business that emphasizes owner-assisted annual inspections, allowing aircraft owners to actively participate in the maintenance process while gaining a deeper understanding of their aircraft.
His approach has made him a well-known figure within the general aviation community, particularly among owner-pilots who value transparency and education in maintenance practices.
Whittier’s aviation journey began with inspiration from his father, an Air Force pilot, and evolved from an initial interest in flying into a long-term career in maintenance. He is also an aircraft builder, having completed an experimental aircraft, and was an early owner of the Cirrus SR22, taking delivery directly from the factory in 2001.
Beyond his maintenance work, Whittier has been deeply involved in the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association (COPA), where he has served in leadership roles including president. He also founded and led COPA’s College of Advanced Technology, developing structured training programs, educational materials, and courses aimed at improving pilot knowledge and aircraft operation.
His recognition as AMT of the Year highlights not only technical excellence, but also his long-standing contributions to aviation education and owner engagement.
FAASTeam Representative of the Year: Mike Jesch
Mike Jesch of Orange, California has been named the 2026 National FAASTeam Representative of the Year for his extensive work in aviation safety education and outreach.
Jesch’s aviation background began early, earning his private pilot certificate before graduating high school. He became a flight instructor at age 21 and began his airline career at 23. He currently serves as a senior captain on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner at American Airlines.
In parallel with his airline career, Jesch has maintained a strong commitment to general aviation safety through his work with the FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam). He is a leading advocate for the WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program, through which pilots complete ongoing training activities to maintain and improve their skills.
Jesch has completed an exceptional number of WINGS phases across basic, advanced, and master levels, and has validated thousands of credits for other pilots—demonstrating both personal dedication and active mentorship within the program.
His contributions extend beyond formal programs. He is involved with organizations such as Young Eagles, Angel Flight West, and LightHawk, supporting aviation outreach, humanitarian missions, and pilot development. He also serves as a simulator instructor at EAA AirVenture’s Pilot Proficiency Center and provides specialized instruction in aircraft such as the Cessna 182 and Mooney, with a focus on IFR operations and complex airspace procedures.
In addition, Jesch has taken on leadership roles in regional airspace coordination, including chairing the Southern California Airspace Users Working Group, where he contributes to improving communication and safety among diverse airspace stakeholders.
A National Recognition of Excellence
The General Aviation Awards program has recognized aviation professionals for decades and remains one of the most respected honors in the industry. By focusing on instruction, maintenance, and safety, the awards highlight the foundational roles that sustain and advance general aviation.
The 2026 honorees represent a wide spectrum of aviation expertise, but share a common theme: a sustained commitment to improving safety, knowledge, and professionalism across the aviation community.
