The Laurels were conceived in 1957 to recognize the extraordinary accomplishments of individuals and teams in aviation, aerospace and defense. Today this black tie dinner and awards ceremony is the industry's premier event, attracting scores of industry pioneers and thought leaders from around the world.

Laureate winners are announced "live" at the event. AW&ST editors honor people who epitomize the values and visions of the global aerospace industry in the following categories:

• Commercial Air Transport
• Aeronautics/Propulsion
• · Space
• Operations
• Military
• IT/Electronics
• General/Business Aviation