Congratulations to DWH Ivan Lopez, Aviation Maintenance Technician on receiving this year's Ken MacTiernan Excellence in Aviation Maintenance Award.

From Ivan’s nomination: “Ivan is consistent, skilled and always puts safety first. His technical ability shows up in how he approaches problems: He thinks it through, checks references, communicates clearly and makes sure the fix is correct. What sets him apart is not just his accomplishments, but the way he achieves them with humility, collaboration and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. Ivan actively promotes the AMT craft by volunteering his personal time to mentor young people in self-improvement and the value of STEM education. He regularly shares his experience and insight to help others understand the opportunities, discipline and pride associated with aviation maintenance as a career. Through his mentorship, Ivan has directly assisted six individuals in pursuing their airframe and powerplant licenses. Three of his mentees have since become American team members working as AMTs.

This year's Ken MacTiernan Excellence in Aviation Maintenance Award honorees.

What’s new: Tech Ops leaders recently unveiled this year’s Ken MacTiernan Excellence in Aviation Maintenance Award honorees at surprise ceremonies around the system. Team members nominated aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs) from around the world, and recipients were recognized during National AMT Day celebrations.

The envelope, please: Your 2026 Excellence in Aviation Maintenance honorees are:

• Scott Bell, Aviation Maintenance Technician, TUL

• Paul Lebsack, Aviation Maintenance Technician, DEN

• Wendell Listhrop, Aviation Maintenance Technician, MIA

• Ivan Lopez, Aviation Maintenance Technician, DWH

• Scott Orloff, Sr. Quality Assurance Auditor, CLT

Why it matters: Since 2019, the Excellence in Aviation Maintenance Award has been honoring AMTs who exhibit the qualities of professional AMTs, strive to uphold the highest standard in aircraft maintenance and support and promote the profession.

Go deeper: Meet this year’s honorees on Jetnet and visit the Recognition site to send a congratulatory eCard!