posted January 14, 2026

Mechanic’s Behind-The-Scenes Work Ensured Safety on Every Mission

HESPERIA, CA — Jan. 14, 2026 — After nearly three decades of dedicated service, Air Methods is proud to honor the retirement of Roy Fulton, a Mercy Air aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) whose expertise and commitment helped ensure the safety of thousands of air medical missions across Southern California and beyond. Fulton will retire on Jan. 16, closing a remarkable career defined by precision, commitment, and an unwavering belief in the mission of air medical transport.

Fulton’s journey with Air Methods began after a distinguished 22-year career in the U.S. Army, where he retired as a Sergeant First Class and honed his skills as a helicopter mechanic on AH-1 and D Model 58 Gunship aircraft. His transition to civilian air medical aviation was seamless, and his impact was immediate.

“After the Army, I was moving to town and looking for a helicopter job,” Fulton said. “I went to the Rialto Airport to inquire and found out that Mercy Air needed mechanics and was hired.”

That decision marked the beginning of a long and meaningful chapter for Fulton. Mercy Air was later acquired by Air Methods, the nation’s leading air medical provider, where Fulton continued to build a reputation for excellence, teamwork, and reliability.

“Air Methods is a great and stable company to work for,” said Fulton. “I was always lucky to work with wonderful people—my fellow mechanics, flight crews and pilots, senior lead mechanics, area managers, and administration.”

Fulton’s dedication extended beyond his technical skills. Known among colleagues for his craftsmanship, ingenuity, and heart, Fulton became a pillar of the Mercy Air family.

“Roy brought unmatched craftsmanship, ingenuity, and heart to our hangar,” said Mercy Air Area Manager Chuong Nguyen. “For nearly three decades, he ensured our helicopters were mission‑ready, and countless patients reached care because of his work. We’re profoundly grateful for every aircraft Roy helped keep safe.”

Fulton’s story is also one of personal connection and meaning, as he met his wife, Gabby, at Air Methods. Gabby worked as an administrative Assistant for Mercy Air and then for Air Methods after the acquisition. The two have been together for 25 years, a testament to how deeply Fulton’s career and personal life became intertwined with the company.

As he looks ahead to retirement, Fulton and his wife plan to travel, spend time with family in Florida, and enjoy well-earned relaxation and fishing adventures.

“I have enjoyed the years working here and the friends that I have made,” said Fulton. “I will miss them when gone.”

Air Methods extends its appreciation to Fulton for nearly 30 years of exceptional service, technical excellence, and dedication to a mission that truly saves lives. His legacy will continue to fly forward in every Mercy Air aircraft he helped keep safe and in every life touched because of his work.

Often referred to as “flying ERs,” Mercy Air delivers rapid, advanced medical care to rural and underserved areas where minutes can mean the difference between life and death. Mercy Air has 20 strategically located bases across California and Nevada that operate 24/7/365, forming a comprehensive EMS network. Each aircraft is staffed by highly trained flight nurses and paramedics and equipped to deliver ICU-level care in flight.