Gary Hillman Honoured with Prestigious Jack & Molly Reilly Memorial Award at Alberta Aviation, Aerospace & Defence Summit
Red Deer, Alberta — May 8, 2026 — The Alberta Aviation, Aerospace & Defence Council has awarded Gary Hillman the prestigious Jack & Molly Memorial Award at this year’s Alberta Aviation, Aerospace & Defence Summit, recognizing his extraordinary lifetime contributions to civil aviation in Alberta and his enduring impact as a mentor, educator, entrepreneur, and advocate for aviation heritage.
The Jack & Molly Reilly Memorial Award is one of Alberta’s highest honours in aviation and aerospace, presented to individuals or organizations who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, mentorship, courage, and dignity while making significant contributions to the advancement of aviation and aerospace in the province.
For more than six decades, Gary Hillman has dedicated his life to aviation. From his first flying lesson in 1966 to building one of Central Alberta’s most respected aviation maintenance businesses, Gary’s career has touched nearly every aspect of the industry.
In 1976, Hillman founded Hillman Air Ltd. at the Red Deer Regional Airport, establishing a company that has served the aviation community for nearly 50 years. Under his leadership, Hillman Air became known not only for excellence in aircraft maintenance and safety, but also for mentoring the next generation of aviation professionals. Gary has personally mentored 16 individuals into professional aircraft maintenance careers and has educated thousands of students and aviation enthusiasts throughout his career.
A champion community builder, Gary played a key role in the growth of aviation in Central Alberta through his involvement with the Red Deer Flying Club, the Central Alberta Gliding Club, and the Red Deer International Airshow, where he volunteered for 15 years managing field services for performers.
His passion for education has become one of the defining features of his legacy. Gary served as a contract instructor in SAIT’s Aircraft Technician program and has spent more than 25 years teaching specialized aircraft fabric covering techniques across Canada, the United States, Alaska, and South Africa. He continues to host training workshops and aviation tours for students and aspiring aviators at Hillman Air in Red Deer.
Gary has also dedicated himself to preserving Alberta’s aviation heritage as co-founder of the Harvard Historical Aviation Society, ensuring the stories of the former Penhold Military Base and Red Deer Regional Airport remain accessible to future generations.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, Gary Hillman’s legacy stands as a testament to the importance of passion, dedication, and community in shaping the future of flight. The Red Deer Regional Airport is proud to celebrate Gary’s remarkable achievements and his lifelong commitment to aviation excellence. His leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication have not only strengthened the airport community, but have also inspired generations of aviators, maintainers, and aviation enthusiasts across Alberta and beyond
Media Contact
Ashley Reierson
Director, Business Development & Communications
a.reierson@flyreddeer.com