Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Job Related Training
Timeline
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Craig Pettyjohn

China Lake,California

Summary

Accomplished Ordnance Equipment Specialist with extensive experience at NAVAIR, excelling in equipment maintenance and quality assurance. Proven track record in enhancing safety observation and inventory control. Recognized for data analysis skills, leading to a 20% improvement in operational efficiency. Adept at fostering team collaboration and driving innovative solutions in high-stakes environments.

Overview

38
38
years of professional experience

Work History

Ordnance Equipment Specialist

NAVAIR
China Lake, CA
08.2022 - Current
  • Supervises accounting, stowage, breakout, testing, maintenance, assembly and transportation of ordnance handling equipment, air launched missiles, and conventional munitions.
  • Supervises and performs testing on missile launching equipment.
  • Performs quality assurance, and safety observation of ordnance evolutions.
  • Ordnance Certification Level: Quality Assurance / Safety Observer for Weapons System Stores & Support Branch NAVAIR China Lake Weapons Assembly.
  • Provided technical support for equipment-related issues during operations and training.
  • Thorough working knowledge of applicable maintenance technical manuals and publications.
  • Certification/Qualification: Explosive Driver, Explosive Forklift 24,000lbs. Operator, and Explosive Handler.

Engineering Technician

NAVAIR
China Lake, CA
06.2019 - 08.2022
  • Monitor ordnance inventory control procedures for all explosive items including multiple test programs, test components, fuzing and fuze systems.
  • Assemble, disassemble, test, issue, & receive multiple types of weapons & transport equipment.
  • Evaluate equipment performance under varying conditions, collect data and suggest modifying or designing to achieve performance and cost objectives.
  • Advise R,D,T&E programs with designing, producing, & testing ordnance items.
  • Evaluate data and form engineering conclusions as to the acceptability of the result of testing, the validity of the test procedures and data, and the legality of operation.
  • Provide support to Contract and DOD representatives on ways to produce, operate, & repair weapons items.
  • Program Lead for the following: TAC Weapons, JSOW/JSOW-ER (AGM-154), ESSM AIM-7(Sparrow).
  • Manage 99 Weapons Loading and Transport Equipment Assets.
  • Manage 106 Weapons Handling Equipment(WHE)/Ordnance Handling Equipment(OHE) Assets.
  • Manage Calibration Program Equipment.
  • Fire Warden for Mass Properties and Integration Branch.
  • Qualified as In-service Engineering Lead(Missile Systems).
  • Qualified as Weapons Integration Lead(Bomb Systems).
  • Qualified as Decoy Flare Lead(Loading/Downloading).
  • Qualified as Mass Properties Lead(Weapon Yaw, Pitch, & Roll Rotation).
  • Certified as Class 3 Crane Operator(Ordnance).
  • Certified as 8,000lbs. Forklift Operator(Ordnance).
  • Certified as 5 Ton Truck Driver(Ordnance).
  • Conducted tests on aircraft components to ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Operated specialized tools and equipment for assembling and repairing aircraft systems.

Ordnance Equipment Mechanic

NMCPAC CWD DET China Lake
Ridgecrest, CA
09.2018 - 06.2019
  • Performs accounting, stowage, breakout, testing, maintenance, assembly and transportation of ordnance handling equipment, air launched missiles, and conventional munitions.
  • Tested missile launching equipment.
  • Performs quality assurance, and safety observation of ordnance evolutions.
  • Ordnance Certification Level: Team Member for Navy Munitions Command China Lake Weapons Assembly.
  • Thorough working knowledge of applicable maintenance/technical manuals and publications.
  • Certification/Qualification: Explosive Driver, Explosive Forklift 6,000lb Operator, and Explosive Handler.

Armament Technician "I" Level

Kay & Associates
Buffalo Grove, IL
07.2015 - 07.2018
  • Trained Kuwait Airforce Personnel to repair, test, and inspect F/A-18 Aircraft Armament Equipment (AAE): LAU-7, LAU-115, LAU-116, LAU-117, LAU-127, M61A1, BRU-32, BRU-33, BRU-41, SUU-62, SUU-63, and M61A1 Gun System.
  • Weapons Assembly, Disassembly, Testing, and Magazine Stowage: Trained Kuwait Air Force and Company personnel in multiple weapons platforms and CAMBRE testing procedures.
  • Aviation Weapons Support Equipment (AWSE): Trained Kuwait Air Force and Company personnel in proper operation, maintenance, and inspection for safe weapons movements.
  • Conducted maintenance and repairs on military armament systems and equipment.

Technical Publications Logistics Element Manager

NAVAIR
China Lake, CA
11.2014 - 07.2015
  • Developed, wrote, and edited materials for manuals, instructions, and related technical and administrative publications concerned with work methods and procedures, and installation, operation, and maintenance of weapons, weapon components, and support equipment.
  • Reviewed blueprints, drawings, parts lists, and specifications to integrate and delineate technology and operating procedures.
  • Reviewed published materials and recommends revisions or changes in scope, format, and content.
  • Maintained records and files of work and revisions.
  • Selected photographs, drawings, sketches, diagrams, and charts to illustrate material.
  • Assisted in laying out material for publication.
  • Arranged for typing, duplication, and distribution of material.
  • PMA-201 Precision Attack Weapons Systems
  • Defense Acquisition University / DAWIA certification courses completed: Fundamentals of Systems Acquisition Management (ACQ101): Completed 12/18/2014, Fundamentals of Systems Planning, Research, Development, and Engineering (SYS101): Completed 12/24/2014, Acquisition Logistics Fundamentals (LOG101): Completed 12/30/2014, Fundamentals of System Sustainment Management (LOG102): Completed 01/07/2015, Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (LOG103): Completed 01/20/2015, Designing for Supportability in DOD Systems (CLL008): Completed 01/20/2015, Performance Based Logistics Product Support (CLL011) Completed 01/20/2015, Life Cycle Management and Sustainment Metrics (CLL001): Completed 01/28/2015, Supportability Analysis (CLL012): Completed 01/28/2015, Performance Based Logistics (LOG235): Completed 02/26/2015.

Ordnance Equipment Mechanic

Naval Munitions Command China Lake Weapons Division
China Lake, CA
11.2012 - 11.2014
  • Performed accounting, stowage, breakout, testing, maintenance, assembly and transportation of ordnance handling equipment, air launched missiles, and conventional munitions.
  • Tested missile launching equipment.
  • Performed quality assurance, and safety observation of ordnance evolutions.
  • Ordnance Certification Level: Quality Assurance Safety Observer(QASO) for Navy Munitions Command China Lake Weapons Assembly.
  • Team Leader of multiple verification events for publication and checklist accuracy for new weapons and modifications.
  • Thorough working knowledge of applicable maintenance/technical manuals and publications.
  • Collateral Duties: Transportation Representative and Tool Representative.
  • Certification/Qualification: Class "A" CDL / Endorsements "TX"(Tanker & Hazardous Material)/Explosive Driver, Explosive Forklift 6,000lb Operator, Explosive Handler, and Class 3 Crane Operator.
  • Awards/Civilian: Letter of Appreciation - Commanding Officer Captain Dennis Lazar / Naval Air Warfare Station China Lake, CA. Employee of the Quarter (Weapons Assembly) April-June 2013.

Ordnance Lead Man

DS2
China Lake, CA
07.2012 - 11.2012
  • Supervised 18 ordnance loaders that maintained 17 F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F/G aircraft for test and evaluation of weapons systems.
  • Analyzed flight request and directed the configuration of aircraft with the appropriate aircraft armament equipment(AAE).
  • Ensured that release/control checks were completed before the following day's flights, in accordance with current procedures.
  • Maintained technical publications in dispersed library for retrieval of accurate technical information for both maintenance and management personnel.
  • Verified accuracy of publications and checklist for weapons inspection, loading, and downloading.
  • Verified accuracy of aircraft and weapon deviation request for RDT & E evolutions.
  • Submitted Technical Publication Deficiency Reports on weapons procedural problems when found to be in error.
  • Trained personnel in the proper use and maintenance of technical manuals.
  • Prepared and forwarded any reports or technical correspondence that was required.
  • Served as an initial point of contact for personnel issues, screened time cards, and insured required training was completed.
  • Worked closely with squadron customers to track projects for requesting ordnance, storing ordnance, maintaining inventories, and expenditure's.
  • Maintained certification training documents for personnel to keep qualifications current.
  • Executed the duties as a Board Member for VX-31 Ordnance Qualification and Certification Program.
  • Quality Assurance Safety Observer- F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F/G.
  • Collateral Duty Inspector- F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F/G.
  • Explosive Material Driver- Class "A" CDL.

Ordnance Lead Man

AECOM
China Lake, CA
01.2009 - 07.2012
  • Supervised 11 ordnance loaders that maintained 18 F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F/G aircraft for test and evaluation of weapons systems.
  • Analyzed flight request and directed the configuration of aircraft with the appropriate aircraft armament equipment(AAE).
  • Ensured that release/control checks were completed before the following day's flights, in accordance with current procedures.
  • Maintained technical publications in dispersed library for retrieval of accurate technical information for both maintenance and management personnel.
  • Verified accuracy of publications and checklist for weapons inspection, loading, and downloading.
  • Verified accuracy of aircraft and weapon deviation request for RDT & E evolutions.
  • Submitted Technical Publication Deficiency Reports on weapons procedural problems when found to be in error.
  • Trained personnel in the proper use and maintenance of technical manuals.
  • Prepared and forwarded any reports or technical correspondence that was required.
  • Served as an initial point of contact for personnel issues, screened time cards, and insured required training was completed.
  • Worked closely with squadron customers to track projects for requesting ordnance, storing ordnance, maintaining inventories, and expenditure's.
  • Maintained certification training documents for personnel to keep qualifications current.
  • Executed the duties as a Board Member for VX-31 Ordnance Qualification and Certification Program.
  • Quality Assurance Safety Observer- F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F/G.
  • Collateral Duty Inspector- F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F/G.
  • Explosive Material Driver- Class "A" CDL.

Ordnance Loader

DS2
China Lake, CA
02.2008 - 01.2009
  • Loaded, armed/dearmed, repaired, and inspected F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F aircraft during squadron operations.
  • Promoted to: Quality Assurance Safety Observer- F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F.
  • Collateral Duty Inspector- F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F.
  • Explosive Material Driver- Class "A" CDL
  • Operated forklifts to load and unload materials efficiently.
  • Followed safety protocols to maintain a secure working environment.
  • Organized inventory for easy access and efficient workflow.
  • Collaborated with team members to streamline loading processes.
  • Inspected equipment regularly to ensure proper functioning and safety.
  • Communicated with supervisors about material needs and workflow issues.
  • Maintained cleanliness of loading areas to promote safety standards.
  • Assisted in training new staff on loading procedures and safety practices.
  • Followed safety protocols when operating heavy machinery such as forklifts or pallet jacks.

Aviation Ordnanceman / E-6

U.S. Navy
NAS Lemoore, California
02.1988 - 02.2008
  • Maintained and inspected aviation ordnance systems for safety compliance.
  • Operated and managed weapons loading equipment on aircraft.
  • Trained personnel on proper handling of explosives and ammunition.
  • Coordinated logistics for ordnance supply and distribution operations.
  • Conducted regular safety drills to ensure team preparedness and compliance.
  • Assisted in developing standard operating procedures for ordnance management.
  • Collaborated with maintenance teams to ensure aircraft readiness and safety.
  • Monitored inventory levels of ammunition and explosives, ensuring accuracy.
  • Worked effectively with fellow team members in fast-paced, dangerous and intense environments.
  • Performed safety checks on all aviation-related equipment prior to use or operation.
  • Maintained detailed records of maintenance activities performed during shift.
  • Supervised operation of aviation ordnance shops, armories and storage facilities.
  • Conducted routine maintenance on aircraft weapons systems such as loading, unloading, testing, inspecting, and arming and disarming munitions.
  • Provided guidance to other personnel regarding proper handling of explosives and hazardous materials.
  • Organized and maintained inventory of ordnance materials in a secure manner.
  • Inspected aircraft components for defects to ensure safe operation of aircrafts.
  • Installed pylons and racks used for carrying external stores on military aircrafts.
  • Assisted in the preparation of flight plans for flights involving ordnance delivery or drop operations.
  • Participated in preflight inspections to ensure that all weapon systems were operational.
  • Serviced bombs, missiles, rockets and launching test devices.
  • Calibrated test instruments used during maintenance procedures on weapons systems.
  • Loaded aerial mines, missiles, and rockets using extreme caution and precision.
  • Identified discrepancies between actual condition of parts versus their expected condition according to technical manuals.
  • Inspected and reviewed systems to ensure compliance with program
  • Mentored professionals to align performance with core values and encourage career development.
  • Maintained and repaired armament, ammunition, and related equipment in accordance with technical orders.
  • Operated ground support equipment such as tow tractors, cranes, hoists, tugs and forklifts.
  • Supervised the installation of air-to-air missiles onto combat aircrafts.

Education

Technical or occupational certificate -

Tulare Truck Driving School
Tulare, CA
12.2005

Technical or occupational certificate -

Georgia Department of Corrections Academy
Forsyth, GA
10.1999

Technical or occupational certificate -

Strike Armament "C" School (NEC-6802)
NAS North Island, CA
06.1998

Technical or occupational certificate -

Conventional Weapons Loading School
NAS Lemoore, CA
02.1991

Technical or occupational certificate -

Aviation Ordnance "A" School
NATTC Millington, TN
04.1988

High school diploma or equivalent -

Chattooga High School
Summerville, GA
06.1987

Some college (no degree) - Welding Technology / AS

Cerro Coso Community College
Ridgecrest, CA

Skills

  • Equipment maintenance
  • Quality assurance
  • Safety observation
  • Ordnance testing
  • Inventory control
  • Data analysis

Job Related Training

  • Primary Leadership Development, 06/27/97
  • Lean Value, 05/24/07
  • Lean Logic, 05/24/07
  • Lean Techniques, 05/24/07
  • SIX SIGMA introduction, 05/24/07
  • SIX SIGMA: Reducing variation to improve quality, 05/24/07
  • Productivity Improvement Awareness, 05/24/07
  • Basics of Naval Explosives Hazard Control AMMO-18-DL(A-4E-3000, 02RG), 03/01/07
  • Electrical Explosives Safety for Naval Facilities AMMO-29-DL(A-4E 3001, 02RH), 03/21/07
  • Explosives Safety for Naval Facility Planning (AMMO-36), 04/23/07
  • Inter modal Dry Cargo Container/CSC Re-inspection AMMO-43-DL(A-4E 3005, 02RM), 04/30/07
  • Introduction to Ammunition (AMMO-45-DL), 05/02/07

Timeline

Ordnance Equipment Specialist

NAVAIR
08.2022 - Current

Engineering Technician

NAVAIR
06.2019 - 08.2022

Ordnance Equipment Mechanic

NMCPAC CWD DET China Lake
09.2018 - 06.2019

Armament Technician "I" Level

Kay & Associates
07.2015 - 07.2018

Technical Publications Logistics Element Manager

NAVAIR
11.2014 - 07.2015

Ordnance Equipment Mechanic

Naval Munitions Command China Lake Weapons Division
11.2012 - 11.2014

Ordnance Lead Man

DS2
07.2012 - 11.2012

Ordnance Lead Man

AECOM
01.2009 - 07.2012

Ordnance Loader

DS2
02.2008 - 01.2009

Aviation Ordnanceman / E-6

U.S. Navy
02.1988 - 02.2008

Technical or occupational certificate -

Tulare Truck Driving School

Technical or occupational certificate -

Georgia Department of Corrections Academy

Technical or occupational certificate -

Strike Armament "C" School (NEC-6802)

Technical or occupational certificate -

Conventional Weapons Loading School

Technical or occupational certificate -

Aviation Ordnance "A" School

High school diploma or equivalent -

Chattooga High School

Some college (no degree) - Welding Technology / AS

Cerro Coso Community College
Craig Pettyjohn