Portage, Michigan, USA – The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) has honored excellence in flight training and aviation education at its annual member breakfast, held July 23 during EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The event recognized three individuals whose contributions have significantly advanced safety, education, and community engagement in general aviation.

• Jack J. Eggspuehler Service Award:

  • Presented to John Niehaus, former NAFI team member who served the organization for 14 years in multiple leadership and program roles.

  • Niehaus is recognized for being the “face of NAFI” to many members and for launching numerous initiatives benefiting the association.

  • He now flies Gulfstream G600s for Whirlpool Corporation.

• Greg J. Laslo Excellence in Writing Award:

  • Awarded to Dr. Victor Vogel, a dual-career physician and flight instructor.

  • Vogel is commended for his thoughtful contributions to Mentor magazine and eMentor newsletter, addressing critical topics such as pilot medical fitness, aging, and mental health.

  • A strong proponent of simulator training and risk mitigation, Vogel’s writing supports flight instructor development and pilot wellness.

• 2025 Flight Instructor Hall of Fame Inductee:

  • Mary Latimer, a veteran aviator and educator from Texas, was formally inducted into the Hall of Fame.

  • Latimer soloed in 1972 and has since earned Commercial, CFI, A&P, IA, and ATP credentials, in addition to serving as an air traffic controller and designated pilot examiner.

  • Between 2009 and 2017, she conducted over 600 checkrides.

  • She founded the Girls in Flight Training (GIFT) Academy in 2011, encouraging women to pursue careers in aviation.

Statements

• “John is a fitting and well-deserved recipient of this award. He always put the members first and created many paths for success at NAFI.” – Paul Preidecker, NAFI President

• “Victor’s writing does more than share knowledge—it strengthens the flight instruction community… and ultimately contributes to safer skies.” – Beth Stanton, NAFI Editorial Director

• “Mary has made a life of being immersed in aviation… the GIFT Academy promotes aviation to women and encourages participation.” – Paul Preidecker

• “I feel like maybe a small part of me has achieved that. I am standing beside immortals as I hold this Hall of Fame trophy.” – Mary Latimer

About NAFI
The National Association of Flight Instructors serves flight instructors and training providers, prospective pilots, and the greater aviation industry by providing resources to all flight educators. With a 55-plus year commitment to raising and maintaining the professional standing of instructors in the aviation community, NAFI elevates its members, led by its Code of Ethics. NAFI is the largest association dedicated exclusively to flight instruction, with a membership of more than 8,000 training professionals, which it serves through a bimonthly magazine, weekly newsletters, and MentorLIVE streamed events, More Right Rudder podcast, and an annual NAFI Summit.

Source: NAFI
Photo Credit: NAFI