Captain Robert Betts

Capt. Robert Betts, a 1999 graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology with a bachelor's degree in applied biology, was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) and designated a naval aviator in 2002. Betts holds a master's degree in Modeling, Virtual Environments and Simulations (MOVES) from the Naval Postgraduate School and advanced certifications in program management and engineering from Defense Acquisition University.

Betts served an operational tour with Strike Fighter Squadron 41, the Black Aces, deploying aboard the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) with Carrier Airwing 11 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Betts’ major acquisition tours include deputy for the F-35 Lightning II Human Factors Integration Team and Joint Cockpit Working Group; Integrated Product Team (IPT) lead for the AIM-9X Block II and Block II+; assistant program manager for systems engineering for the F-35C; executive assistant to the F-35 Lightning II Program Executive Officer; program manager for F-35 training systems and simulations; Ready Relevant Learning Training System Program Manager; and Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD) executive officer. On May 15, 2025, Betts assumed command of the Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD) in Orlando, Fla., where he currently serves.

Betts’ personal decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Strike Flight Air Medal, and numerous unit awards and citations.