Elias Lopez
Canyon Lake,TX
Summary
Experienced MX15i camera operator with the National Guard, excelling in border security operations. With a background in hoist operations in preparation for natural disasters. Proven ability to achieve mission success through effective teamwork, working with border patrol agents in critical operations. Recognized for leadership in training and maintaining high operational standards.
Overview
1
1
Certification
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Crew Chief Camera Operator
Department of War
McAllen, TX
10.2025 - Current
- Captured high-quality video and provided aerial support to US Customs and Border Protection and D.O.W. teams during critical operations.
- Operates L3 Wescam MX15 on the EC145 (LUH72A) helicopter.
- Integrated video capture processes with production teams, improving clarity and effectiveness of video output.
- Assisted border patrol agents in identifying and apprehending suspects and narcotics, contributing to operational success.
Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Texas Department of Transportation
Austin, TX
04.2019 - Current
- Directed team in major overhauls, achieving compliance with manufacturer specifications and regulatory standards.
- Executed routine and unscheduled maintenance and troubleshooting on Airbus AS350, enhancing aircraft reliability.
- Partnered with team members to design and implement streamlined repair processes, improving turnaround time.
Hoist Operator
Texas Army National Guard
Austin, TX
08.2017 - Current
- Operated BF Goodrich hoist system on Airbus EC145 (UH72A) helicopter platform, ensuring optimal functionality for mission readiness.
- Performed scheduled inspections on BF Goodrich hoist and all components, confirming adherence to safety standards and operational reliability.
- Trained junior operators on safe and effective hoisting procedures, enhancing team competency and safety practices.
- Trained with Texas Task Force 1 members to prepare for rescues during natural disasters.
Helicopter Mechanic Team Lead
TX Army National Guard State Active Duty
Austin, TX
01.2022 - 10.2025
- Inspected and diagnosed mechanical issues on UH72A 'Lakota' helicopter, ensuring compliance with military and civilian standards and enhancing safety.
- Performed routine maintenance on UH72A systems to maintain operational readiness and optimize helicopter performance.
- Collaborated with pilots and mechanics to troubleshoot technical problems during post-flight checks, directly contributing to improved mission readiness.
- Trained junior mechanics on helicopter maintenance procedures, fostering skill development and team efficiency.
Crew Chief Camera Operator
TX Army National Guard Southwest Border Mission
Del Rio, TX
11.2017 - 02.2019
- Operated L3 Wescam MX15 system during Southwest Border mission in Del Rio sector, enhancing aerial surveillance capabilities.
- Analyzed real-time data, enabling BP agents to successfully apprehend IA's and narcotics.
- Performed routine maintenance on Wescam equipment, ensuring reliability and readiness for critical operations.
Crew Chief Camera Operator
Maryland Army National Guard
Laredo, TX
01.2014 - 02.2017
- Operated L3 Wescam MX15 systems to support Southwest Border mission in Laredo sector.
- Collaborated with US Customs and Border Protection agents, leading to successful apprehension of IA and narcotics.
- Performed routine maintenance on Wescam equipment, ensuring readiness and reliability for operations.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent -
Morton Senior High School
Hammond, IN05-2015
Certification
- Airbus AS350 repair course, 2020
- Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate, 2015
- Eurocopter (Airbus) EC145 UH72A repair course, 2012
- Turbomeca (Safran) ARRIEL 1E2 level 1&2 certification, 2012
- UH60 Blackhawk repair course, 2012
Additional Information - Security Clearance
Secret
Timeline
Crew Chief Camera Operator
Department of War
10.2025 - Current
Helicopter Mechanic Team Lead
TX Army National Guard State Active Duty
01.2022 - 10.2025
Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Texas Department of Transportation
04.2019 - Current
Crew Chief Camera Operator
TX Army National Guard Southwest Border Mission
11.2017 - 02.2019
Hoist Operator
Texas Army National Guard
08.2017 - Current
Crew Chief Camera Operator
Maryland Army National Guard
01.2014 - 02.2017
High school diploma or equivalent -
Morton Senior High School