Austyn Phifer

Aircraft Survival Flight Equipment Technician.

• Maintained, inspected, and repaired a wide range of aircrew survival equipment, including flight helmets, oxygen masks, flotation devices, ejection seat components, parachutes, and survival kits, to support mission-ready F/A-18 operations.
• Performed anti-G suit pressure testing to ensure proper inflation and safety under high-G flight conditions.
• Conducted oxygen mask diagnostics using onboard test systems to verify airflow integrity and pilot communication functionality.
• Operated specialized machinery to recharge and service oxygen systems (OVA) for ejection seats and breathing units.
• Tested and replaced survival equipment batteries (including VLT batteries), and performed electrical and continuity checks on ejection seat harnesses, survival radios, and beacons using multimeters and test kits.
• Conducted quality assurance inspections on all life-support systems, identifying wear and damage, and performed precision repairs to maintain strict Navy and aviation safety standards.
• Sewed, modified, and repaired flight suits, torso harnesses, and life-support gear to meet aircrew fit and performance requirements.
• Precisely documented all inspections, repairs, and equipment statuses using Navy flight equipment records, and maintenance logbooks.
• Collaborated with aircrew, safety officers, and leadership to ensure 100% survival gear readiness, and zero safety-related flight delays or incidents.
• Thrived in high-pressure and time-sensitive environments, adhering to FAA-equivalent military safety protocols, and contributing to seamless flight operations.

• Facilitated training sessions for new employees on company policies and procedures.
• Developed and maintained a safe working environment, adhering to all safety protocols and regulations.
• Created new strategies for improving customer service standards within the organization.