The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) has named Major General Catherine A. Chilton, USAF, the recipient of the Katherine and Marjorie Stinson Trophy. The trophy will be presented at a ceremony this spring.
Chilton is the recipient of the award for her “…33 years of enduring aviation contributions throughout the United States Air Force including serving as a Test Engineer, Test Director, Operations Officer, and Mobilization Assistant to the Military Deputy of the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force – all of which has made an outstanding contribution to the fields of aviation, aeronautics, space and related sciences.”
The Stinson Trophy was created in 1997 to honor the accomplishments of two sisters – Katherine and Marjorie Stinson. These sisters were among the first 11 American women to be certified as pilots through the Aero Club of America (the predecessor of NAA). Their flying school helped numerous U.S. and foreign pilots to earn their Aero Club licenses, the precursor to FAA pilot certificates. The trophy recognizes a living person for an outstanding and enduring contribution to the role of women in the field of aviation, aeronautics, space, or related sciences.
Throughout her career, Chilton has focused on the future of aerospace engineering as well as the future of its engineers. In addition, she has been involved in mentoring programs on military bases, on college campuses, and service academies.
The National Aeronautic Association is a non-profit, membership organization devoted to fostering America’s aerospace leadership and promoting public understanding of the importance of aviation and space flight to the United States.