Which of the following best describes Robert Gates' career before becoming the secretary of defense?

Robert Gates served as the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) from 1991 to 1993, a significant position that allowed him to oversee U.S. intelligence operations during a pivotal time in global affairs, particularly following the end of the Cold War. This role provided him with extensive experience in national security and intelligence that would later inform his decisions as Secretary of Defense. His leadership at the CIA helped him develop a comprehensive understanding of the intelligence community and defense strategies, making him well-equipped for the challenges he would face in the later position.

Regarding the other roles listed, they did not precede his tenure as Secretary of Defense. Gates was never the Governor of Texas, the Director of National Intelligence, or the Ambassador to Iraq, making the position at the CIA the most relevant and accurately reflective of his career path leading to his appointment as Secretary of Defense.