In 2001, Capt Dave Bautista received his B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott, AZ. In 2009, he completed his M.S. in Aerospace Administration and Logistics from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, OK. He received his commission in 2003 through Officers Training School at Maxwell AFB, AL. 
His first duty assignment as a Developmental Engineer was with Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center (AFOTEC) at Edwards AFB. During this period as an F-16 Avionics Test Engineer, he led analysis functions responsible for dedicated operational test and evaluation on new avionics and weapon capabilities for the operational user. In 2006, he was then assigned to Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center (OC-ALC), OK as a lead Flight Test Engineer (FTE) for B-1 and B-52 sustainment modification and upgrade programs. He provided test expert advice, test management, and execution on 19 test programs to both government and contractor personnel.  
Currently, he is the Operations Flight Commander at Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) Detachment 045, San José State University, San Jose City CA. He supervises the overall operation of the Leadership Laboratory program ensuring successful implementation of training and evaluation of the 45th Cadet Wing. Additionally, Capt Bautista is an Aerospace Studies instructor; he oversees the instruction of the freshman level course to new students at the detachment.