New Maintenance Conference Chair For WATS!

As the countdown to the World Aviation Training Summit (WATS) 2025 continues, we are excited to introduce Buck Gaines, our new Maintenance Conference Chair, who brings more than 40 years of experience in Part 121 aircraft maintenance to the role. Buck takes over from George Perrin of Spirit Airlines, who we thank for his invaluable contributions in 2024.

With a career defined by a "can-do" attitude and a deep commitment to supporting technicians, Buck currently serves as Manager of Technical Training at Alaska Airlines and has been instrumental in reshaping maintenance training across the industry.

As Chair of the A4A Maintenance Training Network (MTN), Buck has played a key role in influencing the Mechanic’s Airmen Certification Standards (ACS), ensuring that Transport Category operators have well-prepared new hire technicians. His extensive experience spans hands-on aircraft maintenance, leadership in technical training, and strategic industry collaboration.

Register For WATS 2025!

Buck will be taking the stage at WATS 2025, presenting alongside Justin Madden, Managing Director, Engineering and Maintenance at Airlines for America (A4A), in Session 3 on Day 1, titled "Challenges for the Future." Their session will provide an in-depth introduction to A4A’s Maintenance Training Network and its ongoing efforts to enhance training standards across the industry.

A4A, the leading advocate for U.S. airlines, aims to transform commercial aviation oversight and the operational environment to enable U.S. airlines to compete more effectively on the global stage. Buck and Justin will explore how A4A’s initiatives align with this vision, ensuring that America maintains the most efficient, safe, and secure air service to support the nation’s economic and tourism growth.

Buck’s journey in aviation maintenance began in 1983 at Reedley College’s AMT School in California, setting the stage for an impressive career. His professional path includes roles at West Air Airlines and United Airlines, where he served as a Line Technician, Supervisor, and Designated Station Trainer before joining Alaska Airlines in 2004. In his current leadership role, Buck continues to champion innovative training approaches that address the evolving needs of the aviation industry.

Look Through The Maintenance Program for WATS 25

With Buck at the helm of the Maintenance Conference, WATS 2025 attendees can expect fresh perspectives, actionable insights, and an engaging discussion on the future of maintenance training. As always, WATS remains the world’s largest aviation training event, bringing together key stakeholders from airlines, training academies, regulatory bodies, and industry suppliers.

Registration for WATS 2025 is now open, and we encourage you to take advantage of our early bird offering. 

Stay tuned as we reveal more exciting conference features and discussion points over the coming weeks.