NAFI Honors Three Contributors at AirVenture

The National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) recognized three individuals for their contributions to the flight instruction community at its member breakfast during EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, on July 23.

John Niehaus received the 2025 Jack J. Eggspuehler Service Award. Named after a NAFI founder and past president, the award honors significant service to the organization. Niehaus held multiple roles during his 14 years at NAFI and was known for creating programs and supporting members. He currently flies Gulfstream G600s for Whirlpool Corporation.

Dr. Victor Vogel was awarded the 2025 Greg J. Laslo Excellence in Writing Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to NAFI publications. A physician and flight instructor, Vogel has written extensively about medical fitness, mental health, and aging in aviation. His articles, featured in Mentor and eMentor, highlight decision-making, training, and wellness for safer flying.

Mary Latimer, a longtime instructor and designated pilot examiner from Texas, was inducted into the Flight Instructor Hall of Fame. Latimer has held commercial, instructor, A&P, IA, and ATP certificates. She also worked as an air traffic controller from 1976 to 2002 and conducted over 600 check rides between 2009 and 2017.

In 2011, she founded the Girls in Flight Training (GIFT) Academy to support and encourage women in aviation.

The Flight Instructor Hall of Fame honors individuals with significant contributions to safety and instruction quality in general aviation.

NAFI’s annual awards aim to highlight individuals who advance aviation education, share valuable insights with the community, and contribute to the development of the profession.

All three recipients were recognized at NAFI’s AirVenture breakfast, attended by members and industry colleagues.