MAPS Air Museum NEW Executive Director

Dear MAPS Air Museum Members,

 

The Board of Directors of MAPS Air Museum is pleased to announce the appointment of Keith W. Bucklew as the museum’s new Executive Director, effective March 14, 2026.

 

Keith succeeds Kim Kovesci, who retired after 14 years of dedicated leadership and service to the museum.

 

A retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel, Keith is a Marine Corps aviator with more than 2,200 mishap-free flight hours, including over 800 combat hours. He completed AV-8B Harrier flight training in 2005 and was deployed twice between 2006 and 2007, flying combat missions in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. In 2009, he deployed again in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

 

In a unique connection to the museum, MAPS recently received an AV-8B Harrier on loan from the Marine Corps – and Keith actually flew this aircraft in combat missions in the Middle East.

 

Since 2022, Keith has also flown commercially for UPS Airlines.

 

With more than two decades of senior leadership experience in both military and commercial aviation, Keith brings a deep respect for aviation history, proven organizational leadership, and strong commitment to mission-driven service. He believes credibility, transparency, and collaboration are essential to sustaining trust – principles that are especially important in nonprofit and museum leadership, where volunteers, donors, and community support are vital.

 

Keith lives in Hartville, Ohio, with his wife and three children.

 

Keith and his family will attend the MAPS Membership Meeting on Saturday, March 14 at 11:00 a.m.

We encourage all members to attend and help us give Keith a warm welcome to the MAPS family.

 

Thank you for your continued support of MAPS Air Museum.

 

Sincerely,

The Board of Directors

MAPS Air Museum

 

Note: The website hopes to have a photo of Keith soon for the website.