NAFI Honors 2 Deserving Flight Instructors

Two flight instructors, Samantha Bowyer and James "Steve" Rutland, were recognized by the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) for their contributions to aviation education. The awards were presented during the annual NAFI breakfast at Oshkosh.

Bowyer, an assistant professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, was named as the winner of the Jack J. Eggspuehler Award for her role in organizing and executing the first NAFI Summit in Lakeland, Florida, in October 2023.

Bowyer holds degrees in business and project management and was instrumental in organizing the inaugural event.

Eggspuehler was the founder of NAFI and led the organization for some 30 years. The award that carries his name is the association’s highest honor. Bestowed by the board of directors, it recognizes the member, organization, or industry leader that has gone above and beyond in service to NAFI for the benefits of its members.

Rutland, a lifelong fixed- and rotor-wing instructor and author, received the 2024 Laslo award for his contributions to NAFI publications, including its Mentor magazine.

Rutland's career spans military and civilian aviation. He holds instructor certificates for both fixed-wing and rotor-wing flying and has logged approximately 18,000 hours dual given. His writing contributions to NAFI’s Mentor are seen on a monthly basis.

“Steve is one of the most impressive individuals I have ever met,” said Beth Stanton, NAFI’s director of publications and editor in chief of Mentor. “Steve shares his vast experience and knowledge in multiple ways—in the cockpit, classroom, flight simulator, and in writing."

The National Association of Flight Instructors was created more than 50 years ago to raise and maintain the professional standards of aviation educators. The organization has more than 8,000 members made up of aviation training professionals who abide by a code of ethics.

The organization reaches the aviation community through its monthly magazine, weekly newsletters, podcasts, and MentorLIVE streamed events.

For more information: nafinet.org.