Dr. Robert I. Aceves

Dr. Robert I. Aceves, Associate Professor of Aviation, was born and raised in a family of migrant workers among the fields of the San Joaquin Valley, California. In high school he enlisted in the Air Force Reserve where began his aviation career as an aircraft mechanic and then flight engineer, where he flew the C-5A Galaxy and the KC-10A Extender. After 20 years of service, over 10,000 flight hours, including active duty in the Gulf War, Aceves retired as a combat aviator. He earned his Bachelor and Masters degrees in Aerospace and Aeronautics from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and his Doctorate in School Administration from Oklahoma State University. In his current position, Dr. Aceves actively seeks to introduce Latina/o students of all ages to the wonder and excitement of aviation and flying. Dr. Aceves is currently working on Diversity in Aviation initiatives and writing a textbook with support from the United States Air Force, the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum, and the Alfred L. And Constance C. Wolf Aviation foundation chronicling the historic role of Chicanas and Chicanos in American Aviation. Dr. Aceves holds: FAA Licenses: Commercial Pilot Mechanic: Airframe & Powerplant FAA Ratings: Commercial Flight Instructor: Single and Multi Engine Airplanes Instrument and Ground Instructor Aircraft Ratings: Single and Multiengine Land Single Engine Sea Department of Defense Certificates: Special Use Airspace Manager Contingency/Wartime Planner