Award recognizes more than four decades of aviation leadership and service
Washington, DC, September 30, 2026 – NATA (the National Air Transportation Association) today announced Carol Giles as the recipient of its 2026 Distinguished Public Service Award, recognizing her more than four decades of leadership in aviation safety, maintenance, and regulatory policy, as well as her longstanding service to NATA and its members.
Giles will be honored November 10 during the Industry Excellence Awards Presentation and Luncheon at NATA’s Aviation Business Conference in Denver. Selected by NATA’s Board of Directors, the award recognizes outstanding public service and contributions to the aviation industry.
“Public service defines Carol’s remarkable career,” said NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna. “Her leadership has helped shape aviation safety policy and regulations, strengthen aircraft maintenance standards, and guide countless professionals and organizations through complex operational and regulatory challenges. Carol combines extraordinary technical expertise with an equally strong commitment to mentorship, collaboration, and service. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.”
Giles began her aviation career as a helicopter mechanic in the U.S. Army. After leaving active duty, she moved into civilian aviation as an aircraft maintenance technician before returning to military service with the Alaska Army National Guard. There, she served as a flight platoon sergeant and flight engineer on the CH-54 Skycrane.
Giles later built a distinguished 21-year career with the Federal Aviation Administration, progressing from Anchorage-based roles to senior leadership within the agency’s Flight Standards organization. Her FAA positions included Assistant Manager and Manager of the Aircraft Maintenance Division, Assistant Deputy Director of Flight Standards, and special assistant to the Flight Standards director and deputy director.
Giles ultimately led the Aircraft Maintenance Division, overseeing approximately 60 aviation safety professionals responsible for developing regulations, policies, standards, and guidance supporting the continued airworthiness of civil aircraft.
After retiring from federal service, Giles founded The Giles Group in 2011. She has since advised maintenance organizations, air carriers, manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, and international civil aviation authorities.
Giles also serves as NATA’s Senior Advisor of Regulatory Affairs for maintenance, supporting the Association’s advocacy and regulatory engagement. She has contributed to Aviation Business Journal, shared her expertise at NATA events, and served as a trusted liaison to the Association’s maintenance committee.