Commemorative Air Force
Robert Gates has extensive experience in both aviation maintenance and information technology management. As an A&P Mechanic for the Commemorative Air Force since May 2015, Robert performs maintenance on various historic aircraft, including the C-47 and B-17. Since September 2005, Robert has worked as an IT/AT Coordinator for the Arizona Department of Economic Security, managing projects focused on technology and ADA accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Previous roles include Senior Information Technology Project Manager at NPower Arizona and Assistive Technology Project Manager at the Arizona Center for the Blind Document Destruction. Robert holds a Master’s Degree in Special Education and Teaching from Northern Arizona University, an Associate's Degree in Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology from Chandler/Gilbert Community College, and several other relevant degrees and certificates in education, technology, and engineering.
This person is not in any offices
Commemorative Air Force
Collecting flying warbirds for half a century, the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is the largest flying museum in the world. The CAF is a nonprofit aviation association dedicated to Honoring American Military Aviation through flight, exhibition and remembrance by maintaining a flying museum of classic military aircraft. The CAF has more than 12,000 members and its fleet of 162 historic aircraft is distributed to 73 units located in 24 states for care and operation. These units, comprised of CAF members and volunteers, restore and operate the planes which are viewed by more than 10 million spectators annually. More than just a collection of flyable warbirds, the Commemorative Air Force’s fleet of historic aircraft, known as the “Ghost Squadron,” recreate, remind and reinforce the lessons learned from the defining moments in American military aviation history. The demands of aerial combat drove the great technological advances in aviation that occurred during and after World War II. Many different types of aircraft were developed, often designed for very specific missions. Members engage with the mission to protect these rare flying monuments to freedom. They keep them in flying condition, repair, rebuild and pilot these unique assets. Future generations will benefit from the CAF’s preservation efforts, educational programs, museum exhibits and airshows.