In a recent reception at Duncan Aviation’s headquarters in Lincoln, Nebraska, two airframe technicians who recently retired from the company, Ron Grose and Tim Garity, were honoured as recipients of the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award, named in honour of the first aviation mechanic in powered flight. Taylor served as the Wright brothers’ mechanic and is credited with designing and building the engine for their first successful aircraft. The award recognises the lifetime accomplishments of senior mechanics.

Award recipients are required to have worked for a period of 50 years in aviation maintenance and must have been an FAA-certificated mechanic or repairman working on N-registered aircraft maintained under federal aviation regulations for a minimum of 30 of those 50 years.

Grose started his aviation career in 1973. He joined Duncan Aviation in 1976, quickly advancing through roles including lead mechanic, team leader, airframe service shop supervisor and eventually Falcon technical representative and programme manager. His expertise spans numerous aircraft models, and he is highly respected in the industry for his contributions to safety and technical excellence. His tenure at Duncan spans three generations of Duncan family leadership, making him a cornerstone of the organisation.

Garity’s career began with his service in the US Navy, where he gained valuable experience in aviation before transitioning to a civilian role. After joining Duncan in 1977, he progressed through positions such as lead mechanic, night and day shift supervisor, airframe shop manager and technical representative. Known for his dedication and hands-on expertise, Garity’s career was marked by his willingness to travel worldwide to ensure aircraft safety and performance.

“The Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award is a significant achievement,” says chairman Todd Duncan. “We are honoured to have two more Duncan Aviation technicians reach this level. It is a testament to their hard work, commitment to others and care of the aviation community. All of us extend our congratulations and appreciation to Ron Grose and Tim Garity for their exceptional service, leadership and contributions to aviation safety.”

Duncan Aviation is no stranger to honouring Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Awardees. Other former team members who have been received this lifetime achievement award are the late Joe Huffman Sr, Bernard Michael, Robert Tooker and Leo Sawatzki.