Monterey Jet Center’s national recognition for excellence is built on the people behind the operation — the employees who go above and beyond every day to create an exceptional experience for pilots, passengers, and flight crews.
Today, we’re highlighting two employees whose commitment to excellence were recognized nationally through the independent 2026 ProPilot PRAISE survey, an industry evaluation that ranks Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) and aviation service professionals based on real-world customer feedback and performance.
Kawai Lopez
Since joining Monterey Jet Center in 2006, Kawai Lopez has become known for creating the kind of personalized hospitality that leaves a lasting impression on every guest who walks through the door. As Customer Service Manager, her warmth, enthusiasm, and intuitive approach to service help create an environment where guests feel welcomed, valued, and genuinely cared for.
Kawai has a remarkable ability to anticipate guests’ needs, often before they are ever spoken, whether through thoughtful touches, personalized experiences, or simply making people feel at home. Her passion for hospitality and dedication to excellence have helped shape the exceptional customer service culture Monterey Jet Center is known for throughout the aviation industry.
Car Week is her favorite week of the year. She especially enjoys the planning, the energy, and the opportunity to watch the team come together to showcase Monterey Jet Center spirit and demonstrate what they can accomplish at the highest level.
Kawai’s commitment to exceptional hospitality has earned national recognition through the ProPilot PRASE Survey over the years. She was recognized as the #1 Customer Service Representative in the nation in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2026, while also earning the #2 national ranking in 2025. Her attention to detail, consistency, and ability to create memorable guest experiences continue to distinguish her as one of the industry’s leading hospitality professionals.
Jason Gray
Since 2001, Jason Gray has been delivering exceptional service at Monterey Jet Center, earning a reputation for ensuring every aircraft movement and guest experience is handled with precision, efficiency, and genuine care.
Known for his attention to detail and natural ability to connect with people, Jason consistently goes beyond expectations by anticipating guests’ preferences and recognizing the small details that make service feel personal. His knowledge of the ramp and deep aircraft experience allow him to visualize the entire operation like a chessboard, anticipating each movement needed to ensure a safe, efficient, and successful outcome.
Whether coordinating a seamless aircraft turnaround or remembering a returning guest’s favorite coffee order, Jason creates an experience that is both effortless and memorable. This blend of technical expertise and enthusiasm for outstanding service embodies the company's purpose statement: "Fueling Journeys in the Spirit of Aviation."
Jason’s professionalism and commitment have also earned him recognition through the ProPilot PRASE Survey over the years. He achieved the #1 national ranking for Line Technician for five consecutive years from 2022 through 2026 - an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects his consistency, expertise, and unwavering dedication to customer care.
The dedication of employees like Kawai and Jason is what continues to earn Monterey Jet Center national recognition year after year. In the 2026 ProPilot PRASE Survey, Monterey Jet Center was once again named the #1 FBO in the United States and the #1 Independent FBO in the nation — honors that reflect the exceptional service, professionalism, and hospitality delivered by the entire team. Congratulations to the Monterey Jet Center!
