Estimated reading time 2 minutes, 34 seconds.
Chris Walsh of Moncton Flight College was presented with the prestigious 2013 DCAM Flight Instructor Safety Award at the recent Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC) AGM and convention in Montreal. The presentation was made by award co-founder Jane Abramson.
Chris Walsh made a significant contribution to the development and management of Moncton Flight College’s approved training organization and the subsequent launch of the multi-crew pilot licence. He has consistently demonstrated high levels of professionalism, commitment and acute understanding of the complexities of operating a flight training unit in a safe and productive environment.
Heather Philpott, assistant CFI at Gander Flight Training, was the deserving nominee of the instructor refresher course, sponsored by Seneca College.
Deanna Wiebe, assistant professor of aviation at Mount Royal University in Calgary, was given “special recognition,” and was the recipient of the safety management systems workshop, sponsored by ATAC. These workshops are facilitated by Mike Doiron.
This year, the DCAM introduced a “legacy” award. The award is only provided when a deserving candidate has made it to the final selection process, and will not necessarily be given out each year. Orville Hewitt, chief flight instructor, Cooking Lake Aviation Academy, Alta., was chosen to receive this award. He has created a significant training and instruction history. He received a DCAM plaque, which was presented to him by co-founder Jane Abramson at the opening luncheon. He also received an engraved aviator’s watch from Hamilton Watch.
Acknowledgement was given to DCAM sponsors: Air Canada, Air Transport Association of Canada, Canadian Association of Aviation Colleges, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, Essential Turbines, FlightSafety Canada, Hamilton Watch, Helicopters Magazine, Seneca College, Sennheiser Canada and Wings Magazine. Thanks were also given to supporters, including COPA, HAC, AQTA, and the Canada Aviation & Space Museum, for their custodianship of the trophy.
