Last week, NATA 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.”