master mechanic Joe Lienau

Joe Lienau, a Sturgeon Bay native who lives in Fish Creek, was recently awarded the Federal Aviation Agency’s (FAA) highest, most prestigious awards: the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award and the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award.

The awards recognize 50 continuous years of exemplary aviation flight experience, professionalism and steadfast commitment to aviation safety. 

Fewer than 1% of all pilots and mechanics in the United States have ever received both awards. Lienau is one of two recipients in Wisconsin.

Jurg Grossenbacher of the Milwaukee Flight Standards District Office presented Lienau with the awards during a Wisconsin Department of Transportation conference in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Lienau was an American Airlines captain who retired after 35 years of service. He still flies his own airplane, and he’s a certified flight instructor and aircraft mechanic.