King Aerospace Inc. (KAI) has named William A. “Bill” Forbes to the position of deputy program manager for the contiguous United States (CONUS). In this role, Forbes provides management and oversight of aircraft maintenance and logistics operations in support of military aircraft around the world. He will oversee the day-to-day operations at seven CONUS locations operating 41 aircraft. His responsibilities in support of maintenance operations serve to ensure that King Aerospace’s team members are properly resourced to sustain quality maintenance standards and to provide the customer with safe, mission-ready aircraft. He brings more than 30 years of military and civilian experience in the aviation industry from both the government and contractor sides of the business.
“Specialized contractor logistics support requires mission-driven focus and unwavering dedication, which Bill unequivocally demonstrates,” says Jarid King, president of King Aerospace Companies. “He understands how the excellence of our services and the trusted performance we deliver support our troops’ readiness, wherever they’re deployed globally. He’s an incredible, experienced leader with a passion for what we do.”
His wide-ranging experience includes leading aviation maintenance departments in dynamic operational environments around the globe. His expert knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) compliance issues, regulations and directives, as well as military aviation rules and documentation, helps ensure positive outcomes. Forbes understands enterprise-level planning and decision-making, forming mutually beneficial partnerships, and aligning customer needs with mission requirements.
“Bill inspires teams to deliver the best, most innovative solutions,” says Greg Mitchell, vice president of government services for King Aerospace Inc. “He’s a proven leader with excellent judgment and decision-making skills.”
Forbes’ extensive work history includes leadership roles throughout his 23-year military career in the United States Navy. He achieved the highest enlisted rank of E-9 and retired as a Master Chief Petty Officer, representing the top 1% of enlisted personnel. In addition, he has served in key management roles with several defense contractors in his post-military career. Forbes has experience in a vast array of military aircraft, from fighter-attack to logistics support platforms. In these roles, he maintained a high-level security clearance in support of military operations.
Forbes holds multiple degrees, which include a Juris Doctor from Texas A&M University School of Law. He holds an airframe and powerplant (A&P) license and has undergone factory training with McDonnell Douglas, Lockheed Martin and Gulfstream.
“My focus is, and always has been, on completing the mission while staying focused on serving the customer’s needs,” says Forbes. “We want the customer to feel like King Aerospace is the best company they’ve ever done business with. We do that with a top-to-bottom belief in superior servant leadership, placing the customer before self. I’m proud to be part of a like-minded organization filled with people who share that philosophy. It starts at the top, and Jerry and Jarid King epitomize the philosophy of service with integrity and honesty.”
“Bill does all he can to create an environment of respect and collaboration, while ensuring our team has the necessary resources for mission success,” says Mitchell. “He prides himself in mentorship versus management, serving our personnel and our clients, and building trust on all sides of the servant/client relationship.”
