Meet the Crew That Keeps Palomar Flying
Alan Baldus, President
Alan Baldus brings a lifelong passion for aviation and service to his role as President of the Palomar Airport Association. He began his career in the United States Navy, completing two WestPac deployments aboard the USS Constellation supporting flight deck operations. Following his honorable discharge, he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and built a successful career in the aerospace and defense industry.
Alan obtained his private pilot certificate in 2019 and has since remained deeply engaged in the general aviation community. He and his wife, Pat, reside on the right downwind of Palomar Airport—an appropriately fitting location for someone so immersed in aviation. Known for his generosity and hands-on leadership, Alan sets the tone for the organization through both action and example.
Gary Gonsalves, M.D., Vice President
Gary Gonsalves, M.D., is an anesthesiologist based in North County San Diego with a background in both medicine and engineering. He earned his undergraduate degree in Engineering and was working toward a second degree in Microbiology when he was accepted to medical school. This foundation informs his analytical approach to problem-solving in both the operating room and the cockpit.
In addition to his medical career, Dr. Gonsalves is a Commercial Pilot with an Instrument Rating and has been an active member of the Palomar aviation community for over a decade. As Vice President of the Palomar Airport Association, he focuses on mentoring youth and leveraging social media to expand community outreach. He is committed to fostering the next generation of aviators while supporting and advocating for general aviation.
Robin Gartman, Secretary
Robin Gartman is a founding member of the Palomar Airport Association and has been an integral part of the airport community since 1976. Over the years, she has served in multiple roles including Secretary, Webmaster, Treasurer, and Tax Officer—demonstrating both versatility and long-standing dedication to the organization.
Robin began flying in 1974 at Santa Paula Airport in her 1946 Taylorcraft and later earned her private pilot certificate and instrument rating. She holds a degree from San Diego State University and remains active in numerous aviation organizations, including the Experimental Aircraft Association, the Ninety-Nines, and the IMC Club at Palomar.
Chloe Miller, Treasurer
Chloe Miller is a pilot based at Palomar Airport and currently advancing her training toward a commercial pilot certificate. She primarily flies the Cessna 172 and has trained exclusively at Palomar, where she has developed a deep connection to the aviation community.
Originally trained in statistics, Chloe transitioned into aviation after a discovery flight sparked her passion for flying. She now works as a project manager in the software development industry, balancing her professional career with her aviation goals.
As Treasurer of the Palomar Airport Association, Chloe brings a thoughtful and analytical perspective to both financial stewardship and organizational growth. Outside of aviation, she enjoys running, strength training, travel, and live music—and looks forward to a future career in aviation.
Carole White, Director
Carole White is an instrument-rated pilot who earned her pilot certificate in 1987 and has remained actively engaged in aviation ever since. She holds a Bachelor of Science from Louisiana State University and a Master of Science from the University of Southern California.
Over a 37-year career, Carole held leadership roles in quality engineering and management across the aerospace, medical device, and biotechnology industries. In retirement, she continues to contribute to the aviation community as the accountant for Pacific Coast Flyers at Palomar Airport.
Carole enjoys combining her love of aviation with international travel, frequently planning memorable trips with her husband and two adult children. She remains an active and valued member of the Palomar aviation community.
Gary Meyers, Director, Veteran Liaison
Gary Meyers is a California native with a distinguished career spanning aviation, military service, and international healthcare. He earned his degree in Biology from the University of Oregon before serving as a naval aviator in the United States Navy, flying the Douglas A-3 Skywarrior. During his service aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, he completed 157 combat missions in Vietnam.
Following his military career, Gary spent over four decades in international healthcare leadership, including 20 years living abroad managing global operations. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, he later pursued ultralight flying and remains deeply connected to the aviation community.
Through his continued military and professional relationships, Gary has helped the Palomar Airport Association build strong partnerships with organizations such as the (Navy) Tailhook Association, the USS Midway Museum and the San Diego Air & Space Museum, enhancing the impact of events like Youth Aviation Day.
Jeff Ehrman, Director & IT Specialist
Jeff Ehrman holds a Private Pilot rating and serves as the Palomar Airport Association’s Director and IT Specialist, supporting the organization’s growing digital and technical needs. He plays a key role in maintaining the Association’s online presence, ensuring that systems, communications, and platforms run smoothly and effectively.
With a practical, solutions-oriented approach, Jeff helps bridge aviation and technology—supporting both internal operations and outward-facing initiatives that connect the community to Palomar Airport.
Edgar “Eddie” Emmanuel, Director & VPPL Specialist
“I like airplanes.” While succinct, that statement captures the essence of Edgar “Eddie” Emmanuel—though it only scratches the surface of his contributions. Eddie is a highly accomplished aviator who flies large commercial aircraft in support of organ procurement missions, directly contributing to life-saving efforts.
He is also a leader in aviation education and serves as the driving force behind the Palomar Airport Association’s Virtual Private Pilot License (VPPL) program. As the organization’s simulator expert, Eddie has been instrumental in developing a comprehensive training experience that introduces students to all aspects of flight in a safe, accessible environment.
Through his work, Eddie is helping make aviation more attainable, reducing barriers to entry, and inspiring the next generation of pilots—one simulator session at a time.