Peter Juanpere and Steve Kozik Honored with the Western Pacific Region Archie League Medal of Safety

When a student pilot’s aircraft lost a landing gear moments after takeoff, the difference between a damaged aircraft and a safe return came down to quick coordination and calm instruction. At the Archie League Medal of Safety Award Banquet during Communicating For Safety 2026, controllers Peter Juanpere and Steve Kozik were honored for clearing the runway, rerouting traffic, and guiding a shaken young pilot safely to the ground. Their teamwork turned a frightening first solo into a story about a safe landing.

NATCA Western Pacific Regional Vice President Joel Ortiz presented Peter Juanpere and Steve Kozik with the Archie League Medal of Safety Award for the Western Pacific Region.

Learn more about this remarkable event in the full Archie League Awards story: http://natca.uberflip.com/i/1546597-archie-awards-2026-website/21?