A highpoint for the recently concluded Aircraft Electronics Association Annual Convention and Trade Show was the introduction of the annual Avionics Training Excellence award. The award recognizes AEA members for their commitment to training excellence as evidenced by participation in AEA sponsored learning events. Pilots and aircraft owners have no easy way of knowing about a repair station's dedication to technician training. With a total technician commitment and by displaying the Avionics Training Excellence award, AEA repair stations can demonstrate their dedication to professional career development and assure their customers of a higher level of service.

As the preferred provider of avionics training for government certified repair stations, AEA offers comprehensive programs to cover everything from the basics to advanced instruction. Whether training is received at an AEA meeting, through an AEA associate member (OEM factory training), or through an AEA partner such as FlightSafety, repair stations are demonstrating a commitment to a higher level of service. With 100 percent of an eligible company's technicians receiving some form of AEA training the company will be recognized as an Avionics Training Excellence award winner.

To qualify, a company must submit a completed Application for Recognition form and meet the following criteria:

• Be an AEA Regular Member (Part 145 Certified Station) in active status
• Provide proof of participation in an AEA-recognized training event for each technician from January to December of year prior to application deadline

AEA recognized training events include:

• Approved AEA Convention programs
• Approved AEA Regional Meeting programs
• OEM Training
• Partnership Training (either FlightSafety or apprentice programs)
• Avionics News Technical Training Exam

AEA will accept Applications for Recognition until February 1, 2004 for training received in 2003. Awards will be presented during AEA's 47th Annual Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, Nev., March 30 to April 1, 2004. Application for Recognition forms will be available on www.aea.net beginning June 1, 2003. The Aircraft Electronics Association represents nearly 1,100 aviation businesses, including repair stations that specialize in maintenance, repair and installation of avionics and electronic systems in general aviation aircraft.

FMI: www.aea.net