Congratulations to Student and Educator of the Year

Each year, ATEC recognizes excellence in aviation maintenance training by honoring an outstanding educator and an exemplary student. At the Annual Conference in Atlanta, the council announced this year’s award recipients, who represent the very best of the AMTS community. Thanks to all those who nominated students, colleagues and friends, and congratulations to our very deserving winners.

James Rardon Student of the Year
Joel Brashear, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology
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After serving six years in the Air Force, Joel enrolled at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology where he is on the President’s Honor Roll (achieving a 4.0 each term) and receives awards for perfect attendance. He is active in the student council, leads volunteer and charitable efforts and is president of the AMT Society local chapter, communications officer for the Student Veterans for America, Spartan Chapter and captain of the school’s 2016 Aerospace Maintenance Competition team.

Joel’s commitment to and respect for his future profession was apparent in the letters faculty and administration sent in support of his nomination. Joel’s instructor Ron Worthington presented his award stating, “In my twenty plus years as an aviation maintenance technician educator, I have not found a student who is more deserving of this prestigious award.”

The Rardon award is given in cooperation with the Northrop Rice Foundation, which supports the advancement of aviation maintenance careers through scholarship.

Ivan D. Livi Educator of the Year
Mark Peeples, Director of Aviation Systems Technology, Wayne Community College

Mr. Peeples has more than 40 years experience in aviation. After serving 25 years with the U.S. Navy, he graduated from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in 2002 with a degree in aeronautics and holds a pilot certificate with instrument rating and an A&P mechanics certificate. He has dedicated the last 15 years to serving the future aviation technician.

Mr. Peeples was nominated by his college Dr. Ernie White who stated in his recommendation: “Mark is clearly an outstanding professional, mentor, and colleague, as well as an exceptional instructor. He consistently places students first in the classroom and is willing to come early or stay late to help students to be successful… Like hours on a place, Mark has touched many students and as he continues to climb to altitude, leaving behind the legend of a complete aviation maintenance educator.”