Recipients of the NBAA Dr. Tony Kern Professionalism in Aviation Award will have demonstrated a continuous history of extraordinary participation in, or support of, professionalism in business aviation. They will have exhibited leadership qualities, outstanding achievements and significant contributions in the following categories of professionalism as described in The Integrated Model of Professionalism by Dr. Tony Kern.

Vocational Excellence: “Doing the Right Things Right”

Examples include:

  • Consistently strives to improve knowledge and technical information required in the performance of his/her job
  • Performs above what is expected
  • Demonstrates personal discipline and compliance
  • Has great attention to detail and diligence in all tasks that he/she performs
  • Strives to improve non-technical skills, such as leadership, team training, SMS and IT

Professional Ethics: “Doing the Right Thing”

Examples include:

  • Tells the truth and does not withhold important information
  • Reports events and deviations even when they would reflect on his/her performance
  • Honors his/her word at all times
  • Follows policies, procedures and other written or verbal guidance without exception
  • Always gives his/her employer respect and an honest day’s work

Continuous Improvement: “Getting Better at Doing the Right Thing”

Examples include:

  • Describe nominee’s vision of excellence
  • Desire to improve performance
  • Demonstrates a plan of continual learning

Professional Engagement: “Sharing and Learning with Others”

Examples include:

  • Actively participates in one or more professional organizations
  • Participates in company organizations or projects that are not directly related to his/her job
  • Participates in company safety reporting systems, hazard reports, quality programs, etc…
  • Fosters teamwork within his/her organization
  • Looks for opportunities to assist others

Professional Image: “Looking and Acting the Part as You Do the Right Thing Right”

Examples include:

  • Is respectful and conducts himself/herself in a respectful manner
  • Promotes a positive public perception of their organization and business aviation
  • Demonstrates a professional appearance while on the job
  • Communicates clearly and succinctly with a positive outlook
  • Does not participate in inappropriate use of email, social media or other online communication channels

Selflessness: “Helping Others and the World by Doing the Right Things Right”

Examples include:

  • Models the ideals of “service before self”
  • Puts in extra time to complete a task
  • Views organization’s priorities ahead of self-interest
  • Motivated by the opportunity to help others
  • Mentors others