The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) has announced Kelly L. Adams, Program Director for the Air Force Institute of Technology Civilian Institution Health Professions Scholarship Program, as the recipient of the 2026 Katharine Wright Trophy.
Established in 1981 by the Gates Learjet Corporation and awarded annually in partnership with the Ninety-Nines, International Organization of Women Pilots, the Katharine Wright Trophy recognizes individuals who have contributed to the success of others or made a personal contribution to the advancement of aviation and space over an extended period.
“Katharine Wright’s legacy is defined by steadfast support that enables others to reach extraordinary heights,” said Amy Marino Spowart, President and CEO, NAA. “Kelly Adams embodies that exact spirit. For over two decades, she has served as a vital anchor for military medicine, ensuring those who safeguard our Airmen are supported, equipped, and inspired to lead.”
Adams is recognized for her 23-year civil service career leading the Department of the Air Force’s largest health professions accession pipeline. At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, she has guided nearly 12,000 future physicians, nurses, and aerospace medicine specialists into military service, strengthening military healthcare readiness and mentoring generations of female Air Force medical leaders.
“I am extremely honored and humbled to join the ranks of this illustrious group of Katharine Wright Trophy recipients,” said Awardee Kelly Adams. “Being from the Dayton, Ohio area, known as the ‘Birthplace of Aviation’ and surrounded by Wright Brothers family history, makes this association even more meaningful. I am truly thankful for the opportunity I have been given to work with the amazing and talented Air Force men and women to help them realize their dreams of becoming United States Air Force Aerospace Health Professional Officers.” The 2026 Katharine Wright Trophy will be formally presented during the NAA Fall Awards Dinner on November 5, 2026, in Washington, D.C. For event tickets and more information, visit naa.aero.
