Zachary Craig Gatewood was introduced to airplanes when he was eight years old. He would go to the airport with his father to help with oil changes or other routine maintenance on general aviation aircraft. In addition to helping his father, Gatewood noted that he received a lot of training from his grandfather, as well. “From the very beginning, he is what helped shape me into being the best maintenance and avionics technician I can be.”
In high school, during summer vacation, Gatewood continued to help his father at the airport. “This led me to full-time employment in the family business at Sky World Aviation Inc. where I gained enough work experience. I then went to Bakers School of Aeronautics where I tested and received my A&P as well as my IA certificate,” he said.
In 2011, Gatewood started off as an apprentice and shortly thereafter moved into a technician role. In 2016, he started serving as the Sky World Avionics Repair Station Chief Inspector and Director of Avionics. He works with electronic flight instrument systems, audio panel, GPS/NAV/COM, transponders, autopilots and entertainment systems. He is responsible for coordinating and planning avionics installations and panel upgrades, IFR/VFR certifications and line maintenance. Though, he said, “My primary responsibility is making sure work is being done to the highest standard to ensure the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft, pilots and passengers.”
Gatewood says he received a lot of his training through on-the-job experience. He also attended the Lycoming Engines Service School training program and many Aircraft Electronics Association training classes. Additionally, he has completed AEA Advanced Wiring and Integration and AEA Advanced Transponder training.
Gatewood belongs to the American Bonanza Society and the Aircraft Electronics Association. He also attends AEA national and regional conferences.
As a third generation A&P and IA, Gatewood sees the benefit of sharing his knowledge with others because both his father and grandfather were instrumental to his success in the aviation industry. Gatewood also said Richard Dreary, director of maintenance at Sky World Aviation was a great mentor for him. “... he provided guidance through some of the most complex problems and is always there as a hands-on mentor.” For this reason, Gatewood speaks with new AMTs to help them understand more about the world of aviation.
Gatewood’s future goals include continuing to gain experience in Aircraft Maintenance as well as avionics. He would also like to get his Private Pilot’s certificate.
