Jesualdo Martinez Award
The European Chapter established this award in 2019 as a memorial for Jesualdo and our colleagues who have sacrificed their lives while performing their job. Candidacies are received by the European Chapter Board and the award is delivered every two years.
Jesualdo Martinez was a Spanish FTE at Airbus Defense & Space and member of the SFTE European Chapter Board who demonstrated and promoted the Society values of education, participation, and professionalism in the field of Flight Test Engineering. Jesulado and 4 fellow crew members perished in the crash of an A400M during a test flight in May 2015 from Seville airport.
Read more about the winners on the European Chapter's website.
2025 Winner
Dr. Guy Gratton
The European Chapter has awarded Dr. Guy Gratton the Jesualdo Martínez Award for 2025. Dr. Gratton has been an active member of the Society of Flight Test Engineers and the wider flight test community for many years, and this award recognises his sustained contributions to the field.
Throughout his career, Dr. Gratton has worked to support the development of flight test methodology, knowledge sharing, and professional practice. He has been involved in both operational and academic aspects of flight testing, and has contributed to discussions on safety, training, and technical standards. His work has included mentoring and supporting newer engineers entering the profession, as well as participating in collaborative initiatives within the Society.
His long-term involvement in SFTE has included contributions to technical exchange and community development, helping to maintain a consistent emphasis on the importance of documentation, communication, and professional discipline within the field. These efforts have supported the continued evolution of flight test practice and the Society’s aims.
The European Chapter and the Society acknowledge Dr. Gratton’s ongoing work and his engagement with the community. We congratulate him on being selected to receive the Jesualdo Martínez Award 2025.
Previous Recipients
| Year | Recipient | Affiliation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Barbara Wood | NATO Science and Technology Organization |  |
| 2021 | Andrew Nixon | Leonardo Helicopters (Yeovil) |  |
| 2019 | Gerard Desbois | Airbus (Retired) |  |