Staff Sergeant Zachary Stiles is an advanced integrated avionics specialist craftsman for the F35A Demonstration Team, based out of the 388th Fighter Wing, Hill Air Force Base, Utah. He is responsible for all electrical maintenance and software updates, ensuring F35A flight safety, and mission capabilities. The mission of the F-35A Lightning II Demonstration team is to showcase the unique aerial capabilities of the Air Force’s most advanced 5th generation multi-role stealth fighter, the F-35A Lightning II, as well as highlight the history of the Air Force’s service through heritage formation flights.
Sergeant Stiles grew up in Royse City, Texas, and entered the Air Force in May of 2017 as an Advanced Integrated Avionics Specialist apprentice. He has performed numerous duties as a Specialist, to include Dedicated Crew Chief and Blended Operation Lightning Technician. His assignments include bases in Utah and Florida and has deployed in support of Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and ATLANTIC RESOLVE.
Education
2017 Basic Military Training, Lackland AFB, TX
2017 Advanced Integrated Avionics Training, Sheppard AFB, TX
2017 Advanced Integrated Avionics Training, Eglin AFB, FL
2020 Avionic System Technology, Community College of the Air Force
2020 Airman Leadership School, Hill AFB, UT
Assignments
- March 2018 – January 2019, Advanced Integrated Avionics Specialist apprentice, 421st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Hill AFB, UT
- January 2019 – August 2021, Advanced Integrated Avionics Specialist journeyman, 421st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Hill AFB, UT
- August 2021 – Present, Advanced Integrated Avionics Specialist craftsman, 421st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Hill AFB, UT
- January 2022 – Present, Advanced Integrated Avionics Specialist craftsman, F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, Hill AFB, UT