Bobbi Wenz Wells, a graduate of Pinedale High School Class of 1978, is one of only six aeronautics professionals to receive the 2024 Wesley L. McDonald Distinguished Statesmen and Stateswomen of Aviation Award. She will be honored in Washington, D.C., next month.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — A Pinedale High School Class of 1978 graduate is among the National Aeronautic Association’s (NAA) recipients of the 2024 Wesley L. McDonald Distinguished Statement and Stateswomen of Aviation Award. Bobbi Jo (Wenz) Wells, formerly of Pinedale, earned one of the highest honors in U.S. aerospace for her significant contributions to aviation for at least the last two decades “while exhibiting patriotism, integrity and moral courage worthy of emulation,” according to a press release. Wells, who now lives in Fort Worth, Texas, is the Vice President of Safety Systems, Efficiency and Compliance at American Airlines. A U.S. Army Major (1982-1992), Wells is a military leader, aviation safety pioneer, commercial airline executive, FAA appointee and employee-relations leader. She previously served as the Vice President of Safety and Airworthiness for FedEx Express Air Operations. Wells attended the University of Notre Dame, the University of Memphis and New Mexico Military Institute. She was selected by the NAA’s Board and corporate members. Wells and the five other recipients will be recognized during the NAA Fall Award Dinner on Nov. 6 in Washington D.C., at the Hilton D.C. National Mall The Wharf.
“The 2024 Distinguished States-People are extraordinary leaders whose impact and legacy serve to energize the women and men serving in aeronautics today, as well as inspiring those who have yet to enter our industry,” said Amy Spowart, NAA President and CEO. “Like the remarkable people who have paved the way before them, their stories show us that aviation remains one of the most dynamic and exciting career fields that a person can choose.”

Wells will be honored alongside of retired U.S. Air Force Gen. Ronald Fogleman, a decorated Vietnam combat pilot, retired U.S. Navy Capt. Robert “Hoot” Gibson, an aeronautical engineer and test pilot, Patricia Gilbert, an air traffic controller and FAA appointee, Greg Principato, an aviation advocate, and retied U.S. Army Col. James Viola, an Army Special Operations Leader and FAA director.