The Colonel Eugene Derricotte Legacy Award in Aviation

• Rick Sinkfield – Winner

• • • Rick Sinkfield is a retired lieutenant colonel for the United States Air Force. In 1976, he was selected to enter the pilot training program at Vance Air Force Base. After completing his pilot training, he became an architect in Texas, and in 2007, Rick became “The Architect of the Air Force.” As the president of the San Antonio Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., he presents the history of the Tuskegee Airmen to the public. In 2018, Rick supported the development of the STEM-A program to expose children to careers in aviation. Through collaboration with the Bronze Eagles and Young Eagles, the youth in the STEM-A program were able to experience flight in an aircraft.

• Eric Warner – Runner Up
  • • Eric Warner is a program manager with the City of San Antonio Aviation Department, where he leads the Aviation Explorers youth program. In his role, he partners with industry stakeholders to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals. In April 2021, Eric created a mobile flight simulator, a traveling educational tool that introduces youth to aviation through hands-on flight experiences. Since 2021, Eric has used the flight simulator to provide over 9,000 flight experiences for over 500 students. As a member of the selection committee for the Tuskegee NEXT Summer Aviation Program, he continues to encourage eligible candidates to apply, ensuring that the next generation of aviators reflects the diversity of the communities they serve.