master mechanic David “Dave” Robertson

Published July 2, 2026 - 5:15 a.m. Modified July 2, 2026 - 11:49 a.m. by Valencia County Bulletin

David “Dave” Robertson, who has operated an aircraft maintenance business at Mid-Valley Airpark since 2006, received the prestigious Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award from the Federal Aviation Administration.

This award recognizes aviation mechanics who have held an Airframe & Powerplant certificate for 50 years with no violations and have demonstrated professionalism, dedication and service to aviation maintenance throughout their careers.

David "Dave" Robertson, winner of the FFA's CharlesTaylor Master Mechanic Award.
Submitted photoRobertson has dedicated more than five decades to the aviation maintenance profession.

He began his aviation career immediately following his graduation from high school in May 1969, when he enrolled in the aircraft maintenance program at the Roswell campus of Eastern New Mexico University. He successfully completed the program and graduated on Nov. 20, 1970.

In 1971, Robertson earned his Federal Aviation Administration Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Certificate.

Demonstrating a continued commitment to professional development and the highest standards of aircraft maintenance, he obtained his Inspection Authorization (IA) in 1974.

Early in his career, Robertson maintained a fleet of nine aircraft for a local flight school, gaining valuable hands-on experience in aircraft maintenance and inspection. He later joined Cutter Flying Service, where he worked for five years further developing his knowledge and technical expertise.
In 1975, Robertson and his family established Robertson Aircraft, a family-owned and operated repair facility. The company was founded with the involvement and support of Robertson’s parents, Volney “Bud” Robertson, who served as president, and Betty Jean Robertson, who managed the company’s bookkeeping and administrative operations.

The repair station began modestly, initially focusing on balloon maintenance.

Through the dedication, hard work and shared vision of the Robertson family, the operation steadily expanded its capabilities to provide comprehensive aviation services including general aircraft maintenance, major inspections, propeller overhaul and avionics support.

Throughout his career, Robertson has supported a wide range of private, commercial and government aviation operations.

For 34 years, he served as director of maintenance for Marjet, a Part 135 operator supporting Beechcraft King Air operations based in Hawaii. He also supported government aviation missions through long-term maintenance contracts. For about 20 years he maintained U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service aircraft.

Robertson also maintained aircraft for Rio Grande Airservice, a scheduled Part 137 operator utilizing Cessna Caravan aircraft, for about 10 years.

Robertson Aircraft also supported federal government operations, maintaining firefighting aircraft and airtankers operating under U.S. Forest Service contracts. He was also involved in the early operational support of Mesa Airlines.

Over the course of his career, Robertson has held multiple FAA credentials, including Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic, Inspection Authorization and Repairman certificates.

A significant portion of his professional career was spent performing and supervising propeller overhauls, contributing directly to the safety and reliability of countless aircraft.

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