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Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award

Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award

The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award is named in honor of Mr. Charles Taylor, the first aviation mechanic in powered flight. The Charles Taylor “Master Mechanic” Award recognizes the lifetime accomplishments of senior mechanics. Mr. Taylor served as the Wright brothers' mechanic and is credited with designing and building the engine for their first successful aircraft.

Selection Process

 The Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) airworthiness supervisor and an airworthiness safety inspector make up a selection committee that reviews the application letters and selects qualified individuals.

If selected, you are awarded a certificate and a lapel pin. Your spouse also receives a smaller version of the lapel pin for his or her contribution. Recipients are recognized in our Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award - Roll of Honor located online, here, at FAASafety.gov!

Eligibility:

  • 50 years in aviation maintenance as an accredited mechanic or repairman.
  • Be an FAA-certificated mechanic or repairman for a minimum of 30 years.
  • You are not eligible for the award if FAA has revoked your certificate. The selection committee reviews previous disciplinary actions, other than revocation, with consideration towards eligibility.

To Apply

You or any person on your behalf may apply for the award by sending a notarized letter to your local FSDO.

The letter must state:

  • The kind of certificate(s) you held, including the original issue date(s) of the certificate(s), if available.
  • A detailed resume of past employment.
  • Three letters of recommendation from certificated mechanics or repairman.

Contact your local FSDO for more information.

View Advisory Circular 65-26C for more information.

If you have additional questions, you can also contact your local FAASTeam Program Manager.

View a list of current Charles Taylor Award recipients.
(Note: If you are a Master Mechanic Award recipient and your name is not on this list please contact the FSDO that issued your award, and notify them of the omission. They can correct the oversight by contacting AFS-300, who will update this list.)