Darrel Geertgens
Sedro-Woolly,WA
Summary
Experienced with aircraft systems maintenance, including routine inspections and complex repairs. Utilizes technical skills to ensure aircraft safety and functionality through precise diagnostics and effective problem-solving. Knowledge of industry regulations and standards, contributing to consistent compliance and operational excellence.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Aircraft Mechanic I
Amentum
Oak Harbor, WA
09.2025 - Current
- Performed comprehensive diagnostics and repairs on aircraft systems to ensure optimal functionality and safety standards.
- Maintained precise maintenance logs and documentation to uphold safety standards and meet regulatory requirements.
- Coordinated with pilots and operations teams to streamline maintenance scheduling, supporting operational efficiency.
- Established and enforced comprehensive safety measures to uphold operational standards in a high-pressure aviation setting.
- Conducted thorough evaluations and maintenance protocols to ensure peak operational efficiency of aircraft.
- Identified and resolved mechanical issues to ensure optimal equipment performance and reliability.
- Conducted comprehensive training for junior mechanics to enhance adherence to best practices and safety standards.
Aircraft Ground Support Technician
U.S. Navy Active Duty
07.2025 - 09.2025
- Directed safe taxiing and parking operations through adherence to established signaling protocols.
- Executed aircraft securing procedures with chocks and tie-downs to maintain safety and prevent movement during critical engine operations.
- Supported operations teams by enhancing ramp safety measures and streamlining ground support logistics.
Maintenance Quality Inspector – Powerplant & Fuel Cell
U.S. Navy Active Duty
08.2021 - 07.2025
- Inspected maintenance actions and repairs at the team level, ensuring all procedures met safety, quality, and technical standard requirements.
- Collaborated with maintenance planners to incorporate corrective feedback and improve workflow efficiency.
Powerplant & Fuel Cell Quality Assurance Representative
U.S. Navy
Oak Harbor, WA
07.2022 - 07.2025
- Performed detailed inspections of propulsion and fuel system maintenance across 100+ jet engines and 200+ fuel systems, ensuring compliance with technical manuals and safety standards.
- Authored technical reports documenting inspection results, corrective actions, and compliance findings.
- Managed tool calibration and special equipment programs, reducing foreign object damage (FOD) risk and improving operational readiness.
- Spearheaded a multi-phase restoration of a previously grounded tactical aircraft, returning it to full mission capability — enhancing fleet availability.
Aircraft Powerplant Operator
U.S. Navy Active Duty
07.2022 - 07.2025
- Performed comprehensive aircraft engine start run-up and power tests to validate operational integrity following maintenance and repairs.
- Monitored performance metrics and detected anomalies to support operational efficiency and improve equipment reliability.
Aircraft Corrosion Control & Paint Technician
U.S. Navy Active Duty
04.2020 - 08.2021
- Delivered comprehensive training to enhance technician proficiency in corrosion prevention inspection, ensuring compliance with professional aircraft refinishing standards.
- Managed a team of six maintenance professionals to ensure adherence to corrosion control and surface protection protocols.
- Developed and implemented corrosion treatment protocols and specialized coatings to reduce service expenses and improve aircraft longevity.
Powerplant & Fuel Cell Technician
U.S. Navy
Iwakuni, Japan
12.2019 - 04.2020
- Maintained powerplant and fuel delivery systems for a squadron of tactical jet aircraft, ensuring performance and safety.
- Applied systematic troubleshooting to resolve engine and system faults, minimizing grounded aircraft time.
- Managed inventory of 800+ precision tools and specialty equipment, improving accountability and readiness.
Powerplant & Propeller Technician
U.S. Navy
Oak Harbor, WA
03.2017 - 12.2019
- Maintained and repaired 28 turboprop engines and associated systems on multi-engine aircraft, including troubleshooting mechanical and fuel system failures.
- Executed comprehensive engine overhauls and propeller inspections that increased aircraft availability and mission readiness.
- Participated in cross-functional team efforts to standardize maintenance practices across shifts.
Education
High School Diploma -
Bothell High School
BothellSkills
- Hydraulic systems
- Preventive Maintenance
- Parts inspection
- Excellent work ethic
- Time management
- Team leadership
- Task delegation
- Staff supervision
Certification
- Powerplant Mechanic (8000-Hour Certification), U.S. Department of Labor | 2024-10
- Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Course, U.S. Air Force | 2024-12
- Aircraft Confined Space & Gas Free Engineering Certificate, U.S. Navy | 2024-03
- Work Center Supervisor Course, U.S. Navy | 2021-12
- Aircraft Paint & Final Finish Certification, U.S. Navy | 2020-04
Awards & Honors
Naval Achievement Medal — Recognized leadership and excellence in maintenance performance, GWOT Expeditionary Medal — Support of overseas operations, Armed Forces Service Medal — Service and operational contributions
Timeline
Aircraft Mechanic I
Amentum
09.2025 - Current
Aircraft Ground Support Technician
U.S. Navy Active Duty
07.2025 - 09.2025
Powerplant & Fuel Cell Quality Assurance Representative
U.S. Navy
07.2022 - 07.2025
Aircraft Powerplant Operator
U.S. Navy Active Duty
07.2022 - 07.2025
Maintenance Quality Inspector – Powerplant & Fuel Cell
U.S. Navy Active Duty
08.2021 - 07.2025
Aircraft Corrosion Control & Paint Technician
U.S. Navy Active Duty
04.2020 - 08.2021
Powerplant & Fuel Cell Technician
U.S. Navy
12.2019 - 04.2020
Powerplant & Propeller Technician
U.S. Navy
03.2017 - 12.2019
High School Diploma -
Bothell High School