In honor of Charles E. Taylor and the men and women who have followed in his footsteps, the U.S. Senate has officially recognized May 24 as National AMT Day. Senate Resolution 335, sponsored by Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), follows a similar measure passed by the House in 2008, H. Res. 444.
 
Thanks to all those that took the time to contact their congressional representatives in support of the AMT craft and profession.
 
The effort was spearheaded through the Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Association (AMTA), a non-profit organization created to promote and educate the public about Charles E. Taylor. AMTA is accepting donations for similar effort, giving bronze busts of Charles E. Taylor to museums and organizations. Contribute to the USA Museum bust campaign here: https://www.gofundme.com/2j9k9vaz​

By Ken MacTiernan Chairman AMC

Today’s aircraft maintenance technicians (AMT) do not seek the limelight nor do they expect to see it. There is no fan fare, media interview or public recognition. By the very nature of their craft the AMT takes each aircraft assigned as a personal responsibility, as they have countless times since mankind conquered powered, controlled flight over 100 years ago. With such dedication and advancement in aircraft technology John Q. Public is basically unaware of these proud professionals entrusted with maintaining safe, airworthy aircraft worldwide.
 
There is a way for the public to see and hear these professional craftsmen in action and learn exactly how knowledge, skill and integrity enable today’s AMT to carry the great responsibility of ensuring aviation’s safety. The Aerospace Maintenance Council has created the Aerospace Maintenance Competition (AMC), where teams of current and aspiring AMTs compete against one another, highlighting just some of the many responsibilities in their craft (see who is registered to compete).
 
The AMC does not promote one group of AMT over another, each competitor is the epitome of the AMT craft and profession. Aircraft do not recognize nationality, religion, political affiliation, color of uniform or sex. Aircraft only care about the knowledge, skill and integrity of the hand holding the tool used to return the aircraft to a safe, airworthy status.

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