Robert Gates is the Lead Instructor for crew chief training at the Sikorsky Training Academy in Jupiter, FL. Rob’s charter is to provide leadership and oversight for all crew chief instructors at the Sikorsky Training Academy, ensuring Sikorsky continues its outstanding flight training safety record. Rob also oversees customer training and ensures timely execution of crew chief training contracts.   

Since joining Sikorsky Aircraft in November of 2014, Rob has performed as a Test Aircraft Manager, Maintenance and Aircrew Trainer, Maintenance Manager, Quality Assurance Manager, and Maintenance Control Center Manager. He has provided instruction for a variety of programs including: Turkey, Poland, Mexico, Chile, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, Romania.

Prior to joining Sikorsky, Rob worked for L-3 and Communication and Lockheed Martin in Lexington, KY on the MH-60M modification line where he held positions as an installer, team lead, and floor supervisor. Rob also served in the U.S. Army, where his responsibilities included line crew chief and phase team leader during both Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

Robert holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Indiana Wesleyan University, as well as a Master of Science in Business Administration in Aviation, from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Rob also holds an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license, FCC License with Radar Endorsement and has accumulated over 1,500 mishap-free flight hours in H-60A/L/M/W and S70i platforms.