Benjamin Retz
Gilbert,IA
Summary
Adaptable leader with a background in aviation and heavy equipment operation. Proven ability in problem solving, project management, and conducting risk assessments to enhance operational efficiency and ensure safety during missions and projects.
Overview
1
1
Certification
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Army National Guard Blackhawk Pilot
Iowa National Guard
10.2023 - Current
- Currently a Chief Warrant Officer 2 in the Iowa National Guard serving as a UH-60M pilot and the units Aviation Life Support Equipment Officer
- Coordinated operations through effective radio communication with co-workers and supervisors.
- Maintained daily logs of activities with detailed reports.
- Prepared detailed flight plans in accordance with federal regulations and company policies.
- Conducted risk assessments to ensure safety during training exercises and deployments.
- Developed standard operating procedures to streamline mission processes and protocols.
- Facilitated communication between team members and higher command for effective operations.
- Operated radio communication systems for coordination with co-workers and supervisors.
- Streamlined communication between team members and higher command to enhance operational effectiveness.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Martin Marietta
02.2021 - Current
- Previous experience at Ames mine from February 2021 to May 2024 before leaving for Army Flight school, been back to Martin Marietta since January 2026.
- Operated heavy machinery, including 988K and 980K loaders, to support site preparation and material transport.
- Collaborated with team members to execute project plans, ensuring alignment with site goals.
- Led production as a loader operator, focusing.
- Followed safety protocols during machinery operation to prevent accidents and injuries.
- Cleaned headings for follow-up equipment on time and to the highest standard.
- Operated Volvo haul trucks and skid steers to streamline material transport and enhance site productivity.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering, Secondary Math Education
Iowa State University
Ames, IABachelor of Science - Business Admin And Data Analytics, Construct Mgmt
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA08-2028
Skills
- Flight operations
- Risk assessment
- Radio communication
- Vehicle inspection
- Project management
- Timeliness
- Problem solving
- Aircraft inspection
- Task prioritization
- Mission planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Aircraft systems management
Certification
Commercial Rotary Wing Certificate with Instrument Rating
Private Pilot Single Engine Land Certificate
Class A CDL
Timeline
Army National Guard Blackhawk Pilot
Iowa National Guard
10.2023 - Current
Heavy Equipment Operator
Martin Marietta
02.2021 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering, Secondary Math Education
Iowa State University
Bachelor of Science - Business Admin And Data Analytics, Construct Mgmt
Liberty University