West Virginia Airport Managers Association inducts Edward F. Waske Jr. and Charles M. Hatten into West Virginia Aviation Hall of Fame
PRESS RELEASE
GLADE SPRINGS, W.Va. – The West Virginia Airport Managers Association inducted two outstanding aviation leaders at the 2026 West Virginia Aviation Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Monday, July 27, at the Resort at Glade Springs.
Edward “Ed” Frank Waske, Jr., of Bridgeport, and Charles Michael “Mike” Hatten, of Kenova, was formally inducted in recognition of their lifelong contributions to aviation in West Virginia and beyond.
Waske, founder and Chief Operating Officer of Engine & Airframe Solutions Worldwide, LLC, has built a distinguished career as an FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant mechanic, international field service representative, and community leader. He is widely recognized for founding the Carl Hopkins West Virginia Youth Aviation Expo and for his tireless efforts to inspire the next generation of aviators through education and hands-on outreach.
Hatten, a Huntington native and U.S. Army Distinguished Graduate, served as a West Virginia State Police pilot, flew for three governors, and played a key role in developing the state’s air medevac program. He later advanced to senior leadership at United Airlines, where he oversaw training for thousands of pilots and helped strengthen national aviation safety standards through Crew Resource Management and Threat and Error Management programs.
“These two inductees represent the very best of West Virginia aviation — technical excellence, dedicated service, and a deep commitment to the future of our industry,” said Nic Diehl, President of the West Virginia Airport Managers Association. “We are proud to celebrate their lasting impact.”
More information about West Virginia Airport Managers Association and Hall of Fame Inductees can be found at www.wvama.org.
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West Virginia Airport Managers Association
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