Julie Clark set a standard for leadership and professionalism throughout her career as an airline pilot and aerobatic performer—with nearly 33,000 hours of accident-free flying. One of her proudest moments, in fact, was earning the Art Scholl Memorial Award for Showmanship from her peers at the International Council of Air Shows conference 20 years ago, and in 2018, the ICAS Sword of Excellence. Clark retired from flying airshows in her signature polished T-34 Mentor, Free Spirit, in 2019.
But her most recent honor tops the list. Clark has been selected as the 2023 recipient of the Katharine Wright Memorial Trophy from the National Aeronautic Association, the organization announced on Wednesday. The trophy is awarded annually in partnership with the Ninety-Nines International Organization of Women Pilots to “an individual who has contributed to the success of others or made a personal contribution to the advancement of the art, sport, and science of aviation and space flight over an extended period of time,” according to the NAA.
Clark has demonstrated those qualities throughout her career in aviation and in service to the community. In addition to her professional achievements, she also serves as a mentor in the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Women Soar program.
“The Katharine Wright Award means so much to me because I love to inspire and encourage young aviators,” said Clark in a press release from the NAA. “I know that Katharine Wright was a true supporter of her famous brothers’ endeavors and always put their activities ahead of her own. She was a real compassionate and loyal sister! How very honored I am to be selected for this amazing award.”
Said Robin Hadfield, president of the Ninety-Nines: “Throughout her life, Julie Clark has shown dedication, remarkable skill, and a passion for excellence. Her aviation journey stands as an example of what can be achieved when one combines talent with determination, making her a true inspiration to all.”
Clark previously received the Katharine and Marjorie Stinson Award from the NAA in 2008. The Stinson Award recognizes a living woman for an outstanding and enduring contribution, a meritorious flight or a singular technical development in the field of aviation, aeronautics, space or related sciences.
“From the start of Julie’s aviation career to the present day, she has constantly sought ways to lift and inspire others,” said NAA president and CEO Greg Principato. “Many talk about giving back. Julie defines the term. She is the definition of a Katharine Wright Trophy recipient, great in her own right and making all others around her better. It will be our honor to present the Katharine Wright Trophy to Julie Clark.”
