Thomas Baca is a native of Albuquerque, U.S., and is well known in New Mexico Aviation circles. He graduated from high school in 1963 and enlisted in the U.S. Army with hopes of selection to Army Warrant Officer Flight Training. He entered flight training in 1965 and flew helicopters in Vietnam in 1966-1967. He returned to Vietnam in 1970 for another year of service, flying RU-8 fixed wing aircraft. He accepted a commission during his second tour. He served as an Infantry company commander and staff officer in addition to other assignments. He retired from the Army in 1983. Baca was awarded the Soldiers Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star and 38 Air Medals during two tours of duty in Vietnam. He has over 10,000 hours of flight time in all types of aircraft. Currently he is the Aviation Director for the State of New Mexico and is responsible for financial grants, safety, education and support to 54 airports in the state.

Baca is a graduate of the University of Southern Colorado. Governor Bill Richardson appointed him Aviation Director in New Mexico in July, 2004.