NWOC Announces 2025 “20 Under 40” Rising Stars
Oshkosh, Wisconsin (July 26, 2025) — The next generation of aviation preservationists, pilots, and advocates is soaring to new heights. The National Warbird Operators Conference (NWOC) proudly unveiled its 2025 class of “20 Under 40” Rising Stars—an inspiring group of young leaders shaping the future of the warbird community. Launched in 2019, the “20 Under 40” program was created to spotlight individuals under the age of 40 who have made significant contributions to the warbird field. From restorers and pilots to educators and advocates, these honorees are not only preserving history—they’re writing its next chapter. The program's goal is twofold: to recognize those already making waves and to motivate the next generation to step into leadership roles. By showcasing these outstanding individuals, NWOC underscores its commitment to ensuring that warbird aviation remains vibrant, relevant, and inspiring for years to come. This year’s list includes a diverse mix of talent, including three members of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF)—the world's largest flying museum and one of the pioneering organizations in the warbird movement. Since its founding, the CAF has led the charge in collecting, restoring, and flying vintage military aircraft to educate and inspire the public.
Among the CAF members honored this year:
• Vanessa Martinez, CAF Colonel and member of the Border Eagles Squadron
• Carter Moon, CAF Colonel and member of the Minnesota Wing
• Parker Rathbun, CAF Colonel, member of the High Sky Wing, and a TORA pilot
These individuals, along with their fellow honorees, represent the passion and dedication driving the warbird world into the future.
Congratulations to the 2025 NWOC 20 Under 40 Rising Stars:
| Ester Aube | Bailey Black | Angel Estrada |
| Jerod Flohr | Darcy Kaapke | Rachel Lindvig |
| Giacinto Lucci | Bijan Maleki | Vanessa Martinez (CAF) |
| Mark Mondello | Carter Moon (CAF) | Lionel Mougel |
| John Muszala | Brittany Nally | Jacob Patrick |
| Parker Rathbun (CAF) | Christy Scholl | Patrick Starlinger |
| Phil Thomas | Tucker Yamada |
Biographies and photos of each honoree will be released in the coming weeks, offering a deeper look at the talent, tenacity, and vision behind each name on the list. For those invested in preserving and promoting aviation history, this year’s class of rising stars proves that the future is in capable—and passionate—hands.
