The University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) is proud to announce that Greg Jolda, coordinator of UMA’s Aviation program and longtime instructor, has received the Federal Aviation Administration’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, the highest honor the FAA bestows on a pilot.
Presented by John Bell of the FAA Safety Team out of the Portland Flight Standards District Office, the award recognizes airmen who have demonstrated professionalism, skill and safety for at least 50 years.
Jolda’s aviation career began in 1970 with the U.S. Air Force, where he logged more than 3,000 flight hours before retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1991. He joined UMA in 2014 as coordinator of the Aviation program, where his leadership has helped strengthen Maine’s aviation workforce through accessible, career-focused education.
Greg’s passion for aviation and his commitment to teaching have strengthened UMA’s role in preparing Maine’s aviation workforce.
Jolda maintains Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilot credentials and continues to train students in UMA’s fleet, including the Cirrus SR20 acquired in 2022. He has logged more than 5,000 total flight hours and 2,000 hours of instruction.
Colleagues at Maine Instrument Flight, UMA’s aviation partner, praised his impact. “Greg brings an energy that you don’t see very often,” said Chad Morris. “He loves to teach, and his vision has advanced our program in ways that benefit every student.”
As UMA celebrates its 60th anniversary, Greg’s leadership reflects UMA’s commitment to student success, academic excellence and community partnerships that support workforce-relevant education that empowers students and supports communities across Maine.”