Darren Tinkham
Fort Rucker,AL
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with a proven track record at the United States Army, excelling in leadership and operational excellence. Skilled in complex problem-solving and customer service, I consistently exceeded performance goals while mentoring teams and enhancing operational readiness. Recognized for my attention to detail and ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
WO1 - 155E/153A - Army Flight Student
United States Army
01.2023 - Current
- Served as a Warrant Officer Candidate and Aviation Student in the U.S. Army, focusing on rotary- and fixed-wing flight operations.
- Completed Initial Entry Rotary Wing Training (IERW) and the C-12 Initial Entry Fixed Wing Course (IEFW).
- Graduated from the Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) course, demonstrating resilience and operational readiness in austere environments.
- Gained proficiency in mission planning, crew coordination, aircraft systems, and tactical flight procedures.
- Mentored junior personnel, fostering skill development and professional growth within the unit.
- Implemented aviation safety protocols and risk management procedures, promoting a culture of compliance and operational integrity.
Joint Operations NCO
United States Army
08.2020 - 12.2022
- Served as Assistant Operations NCO in the Joint Task Force–National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) Operations Center.
- Briefed senior military and civilian leaders on operational updates and mission requirements.
- Managed operational calendars and coordinated support with federal and local authorities.
- Oversaw accountability and readiness of over $3 million in equipment.
- Supported high-visibility national events including the 2020 Presidential Inauguration, state funerals, and joint training exercises.
- Ranked #2 of 7 Staff Sergeants; consistently exceeded performance standards and recommended for promotion ahead of peers.
- Selected for a broadening assignment as U.S. Army Recruiter, reflecting strong alignment with Army talent acquisition goals.
SSG - 11B -Full Honors Firing Party Commander
The Old Guard, United States Army
03.2018 - 07.2020
- Served as Company Retention NCO and Lead Full Honors Firing Party Commander for Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard” (2018–2020).
- Led ceremonial operations for military funerals and official events at Arlington National Cemetery and throughout the Military District of Washington.
- Counseled soldiers on reenlistment and career development, ensuring retention compliance and supporting Army personnel goals.
- Selected above peers to attend Department of the Army Retention Training (DART); appointed as unit’s primary retention advisor.
- Mentored soldiers through promotion boards, resulting in multiple advancements to the rank of Sergeant.
- Trained and validated five junior soldiers as Firing Party Commanders, ensuring continuity of ceremonial operations.
- Recognized for leadership excellence through selection for the Leadership 360 Program and awarded Battalion Soldier of the Month (Feb 2019).
- Handpicked to serve on the staff of Sergeant Major of the Army Dan Dailey, reflecting exceptional performance and professionalism.
New Car Sales Consultant
Joe Basil Chevrolet Inc.
08.2014 - 03.2018
- Consistently exceeded sales goals, demonstrating a results-driven approach and commitment to customer experience, averaging over 180 vehicles and $1 million in inventory per year.
- Cultivated strong customer relationships to drive sales opportunities and deliver personalized vehicle recommendations.
- Conducted detailed vehicle presentations, highlighting features and benefits to maximize customer engagement and satisfaction.
- Mentored junior sales staff on product knowledge and sales techniques, resulting in improved team performance and confidence.
- Partnered with the finance department to streamline credit application processes, ensuring fast and efficient customer approvals.
- Negotiated vehicle sales and built long-term client relationships through effective communication and exceptional customer service.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Homeland Security
American Public University
Charles Town, WV07-2026
Associate of Applied Science - IT/Multi-Media
ITT Technical Institute
Getzville, NY07-2012
Skills
- Fast learner
- Positive attitude
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Computer skills
- Customer service
- Complex Problem-solving
- Ethical awareness
- Research and analysis
- Performance improvement
- Team development
- Critical reflection
Timeline
WO1 - 155E/153A - Army Flight Student
United States Army
01.2023 - Current
Joint Operations NCO
United States Army
08.2020 - 12.2022
SSG - 11B -Full Honors Firing Party Commander
The Old Guard, United States Army
03.2018 - 07.2020
New Car Sales Consultant
Joe Basil Chevrolet Inc.
08.2014 - 03.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Homeland Security
American Public University
Associate of Applied Science - IT/Multi-Media
ITT Technical Institute