Skills: Project Management, Flight Test Operations, Global Team Management

My mission: Lead a test flight team of up to 12 engineers and technicians that test, inspect and maintain a fleet of experimental engines to support a company-critical certification program, leading to new operational engines for global client aircraft.

My work: I ensure that the customer (one of the largest global aerospace companies) receives the test engines in optimal condition, and then verify that the team accurately installs any needed instrumentation and upgrades. During the test flight operations, I guide the team in critical routine tasks: the preparation of the engines for upcoming tests; the timely collection and evaluation of flight data; the accurate inspection and maintenance of the engines; and the necessary archiving of flight records. Our team will rapidly respond to engine faults or part failures to keep the aircraft flying and on track to meet the airframer’s aggressive certification schedule. To ensure clear communication, I collaborate with the customer’s flight test center and design office, and our engineering, program, and delivery centers so we can solve snags, create plans, fix issues, and create strategies and pathways to success.

The results: Achieved airframer’s certification schedule without delaying the engine schedule certification deadline. Maintained engine support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, for which I received an award for effective and continuous program operation in 2020. Developed and launched a SharePoint database tool across both the on-site and in-house teams that supports and archives all flight test operations. Standardized our operational processes for our “concept of operations”. Hired new staff, trained them to follow our operational procedures, and reviewed their performance.