ALEXANDER GATOPOULOS

• Fabricate, machine, and finish precision wind-tunnel models for Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, NASA, and DOD programs.
• Assemble, repair, and refurbish aerospace and military components including fuel systems, HVAC units, electronic modules, and turbine engine parts.
• Support Army, Air Force, and Navy equipment modernization by restoring components to mission-ready condition.
• Interpret engineering drawings and technical data to ensure accuracy, safety, and fabrication quality.

Trained professional with over two years of experience at the Langley Test Cell, specializing in running F119 jet engines to ensure they function properly within approved parameters and their airworthiness after maintenance has been performed on them. Responsible for providing key engine run and fault data to Pratt & Whitney engineers in direct support of the 1st Fighter Wing flying mission and the overall fleet health of the F119 program Air Force wide.

• Performed a trend analysis in collaboration with Pratt & Whitney to examine 27 instances of fuel pump failures. This investigation led to a decisive course of action, preventing a potential $45K asset failure, and mitigating an anticipated 11-month supply deficit.
• Conducted gathering/monitoring of Engine Computer Data to identify common fault codes and areas of failure, leading to changes in maintenance practice as well as technical data.
• Assisted the DoD's first-ever Advanced Mobile Thrust Stand (Test Stand/Support Equipment) inspection, reviewing 227 tasks and pushing two task rewrites to cut 7K hours, saving $34M in acquisition costs AF-wide.
• Trained in the use, maintenance, and inventory of support equipment specific to the Langley test cell to include test stands, fuel tanks, and vehicles.
• Assisted section in transitioning maintenance documentation from the Integrated Maintenance Data System (IMDS) to the Maintenance & Utilization Module of the Defense Property Accountability System (DPAS). This included ensuring data accuracy, streamlining documentation processes, and enhancing overall maintenance record-keeping efficiency.
• Coordinated with Atec and Vital Link to facilitate the comprehensive upgrade/revamp of the electrical, communication, and fuel systems in the Langley Test Cell. This also included assisting in the construction of protective coverings over the fuel tanks for both buildings, ensuring enhanced safety and operational efficiency.

Experienced Engine Mechanic with more than 5 years of experience in flight line/propulsion back-shop maintenance at Shaw AFB and Langley AFB, specializing in the disassembly, repair, servicing, and running of F110 and F119 jet engines to include their transportation and installation into aircraft using engine trailers. Responsibilities include conducting thorough inspections of engine exteriors, engine interiors using a borescope, and engine exhaust, ensuring the identification and resolution of discrepancies and foreign object damage.

• Operated GE F110 Engines at Shaw AFB in aircraft.
• Conducted tests and diagnostics on F119 engines at Langley AFB test cell.
• Managed logistics and part acquisition for the back-shop and support section, utilizing the DIFM(Due-In From Maintenance) program. The effective management of this program improved the availability of specific engine parts and support equipment(tooling), thus enhancing shop readiness.
• Executed interim, routine, and urgent maintenance actions while monitoring engine trend data, diagnostics, and the joint oil analysis program.
• Conducted routine maintenance and inventory of support equipment to include trailers, hoists, vehicles, tugs, and engine specific tooling.
• Provided propulsion support equipment, including over 30 engine trailers and specialized tooling, to the flight line. Facilitated the transport of engines to and from the back shop, effectively relieving the workload of flight line units and significantly enhancing operational efficiency.
• Introduced Exhaust Coating Loss (ECL) classes and trained flight personnel on 33 exhaust inspection tasks, leading to a 12% improvement in shop proficiency and multiple personnel completing upgrade training.
• Conducted Time Compliance Technical Order (TCTO) maintenance while collaborating with Pratt & Whitney contractors for 31 engine inductions. Successfully replaced 6,500 Low-Pressure Turbine (LPT) blades, resulting in 64% of the fleet being upgraded one year ahead of the projected ground date.