Source: American Airlines
American Airlines proudly celebrates the 100 recipients of its most prestigious career achievement award — the Circle of Excellence — for their exceptional contributions to American’s operation, customers and the communities it serves. These elite team members exemplify American’s core values, demonstrating the leadership, strategic innovation and undeniable excellence that drive the airline’s success every day.
This year’s honorees are an exclusive group of professionals who set — and hold — the highest standard across our global network. Their impact reaches every corner of the business, and their service and selflessness are an inspiration to both customers and their fellow team members.
A celebration under the wings
The two-day Circle of Excellence celebration in Dallas-Fort Worth last month included an award ceremony gala at the Winspear Opera House attended by American’s senior leaders, including CEO Robert Isom. A surprise highlight this year was a hangar luncheon under the wings of American’s Boeing 777 bearing the recently revealed heritage livery that celebrates the company’s upcoming 100th birthday in 2026.
During the event, Isom expressed his appreciation for the honorees’ career-long impact to the airline. “This is my fourth time hosting this ceremony, and it’s always one of my favorite nights of the year,” said Isom. “Tonight, we celebrate the very best of American by honoring 100 of you, nominated and hand-selected by your colleagues and leaders for this prestigious recognition. You’re now part of an exclusive group — less than 1% of our team members receive this recognition. That’s rare air, and you should be proud.”
For many honorees, the Circle of Excellence recognition was deeply personal and surprising, even after decades of above-and-beyond service and commitment. Christopher Ortega, DFW-based Maintenance Control Technician for Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft, was in disbelief when he heard he was a 2025 recipient after 37 years at American. “I never thought winning would be possible. I didn’t believe it. Every day I give my all, and I know many other people who work just as hard as I do and are worthy of this award, too.”
The selection process
A panel of former honorees and leaders conducted a rigorous evaluation to select the top 100 nominations from those submitted by team members and leaders. Each winner received a commemorative pin, a trophy and $10,000, recognizing their lasting contributions to American’s success.
Together, they represent more than 2,700 years of combined service, with an average tenure of 27 years, and hail from 12 countries: Brazil, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, France, Guatemala, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Kingdom and the United States.
