The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) named Cassandra Bosco as the recipient of the 2023 Frank G. Brewer Trophy in honor of her “lifetime of leadership and service as an effective advocate for shaping and cultivating the next generation through aviation education.”
Established in 1943, the Brewer Trophy resides in the National Air and Space Museum recognizing individuals and organizations for significant contributions of enduring value to aerospace education in the U.S.
"Few people in our industry have the drive and passion that Cassandra has," said NAA president and CEO Amy Spowart. "Her impact has created meaningful exposure and lifelong opportunities for all who desire a place in our industry, especially women and minorities. She is a staunch ally and friend of aviation around the world."
Bosco, who has been involved in industry advocacy for four decades—including holding positions with GAMA and NBAA—was a founding board member of Women in Aviation International (WAI), where she played a leading role in establishing the organization’s Young Professional Advisory Group.
Bosco also played a key role in the creation of WAI’s Super Mentor Program and Jobs Connect platform. While at NBAA, she developed the AvKids (Aviation for Kids) program to provide resources and activities on aviation, and business aviation in particular, to educators at the elementary level. NAA identified her launch of a successful “Leadership for Women in Aerospace and Aviation” program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University as one of Bosco's most impactful collaborations. The program has drawn more than 2,200 attendees to date. The co-chair of the Aviation Accreditation Board International Industry/Educator forum, she also has served as interim director for the University Aviation Association.
“I am thrilled and honored to be the recipient of the Brewer Trophy. Throughout my career, I have loved sharing the excitement of opportunities afforded by aviation and aerospace with both career seekers and enhancers—in the hope that they will power our industry forward to even greater heights,” Bosco said. “So many past Brewer recipients have been lifelong friends and mentors and an inspiration for my own passion for aviation education. I am humbled to be included among this esteemed group of professionals.”
Past recipients include AOPA’s You Can Fly Program, King’s Schools founders John and Martha King, the Academy of Model Aeronautics, and Women in Aviation International founder Peggy Chabrian.