Eric Scott Blackburn
Colorado Springs,United States
Summary
Seasoned Training and Flight Operations Specialist with over 15 years of U.S. Navy experience in managing complex training programs and flight operations. Expert in creating, updating, and maintaining training documents and Flight Evaluation Folders (FEF) in compliance with Navy regulations. Proven ability to oversee comprehensive training schedules, coordinate resources, and enhance aircrew proficiency and readiness. Adept at using automated systems for training management and delivering detailed reports to senior leadership. Recognized for improving operational efficiency and achieving high standards in training and flight operations.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Training Department Manager / Instructor Naval Flight Officer
United States Navy - Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 30 (VX-30)
02.2015 - 07.2018
- Managed all facets of a complex squadron training program for 200 personnel, including certification, aircrew training, General Military Training, and professional development, ensuring compliance with Naval directives and improving squadron readiness
- Developed, updated, and maintained comprehensive training records and Flight Evaluation Folders (FEF) for 85 aircrew across manned and unmanned aircraft, ensuring precision and adherence to Navy regulations
- Coordinated scheduling and resource allocation for aircraft, simulators, academic sessions, and training devices, addressing mechanical issues, medical absences, and other factors to enhance training effectiveness
- Monitored aircrew performance and training milestones, created individualized training plans, and ensured timely completion of ground and flight evaluations, academic requirements, and proficiency standards
- Prepared and delivered detailed briefings and reports to senior leadership, facilitated quarterly Training Review Boards, and achieved “Outstanding” ratings in Fleet Model Manager assessments
- Utilized automated training systems, including Flight Information Scheduling and Tracking (FIST) and Fleet Training Management and Planning System (FLTMPS), for managing and tracking training requirements and scheduling
Executive Officer / Lead Exercise Planner
United States Navy - NORAD and U.S. Northern Command
10.2012 - 02.2015
- Directed daily operations for the J7 Directorate, serving as the primary liaison for SES-level Director and Deputy Director on all executive and administrative matters, ensuring streamlined communication and operational efficiency
- Coordinated comprehensive support for senior leadership, including travel planning and arranging high-level events, utilizing the Defense Travel System (DTS) for managing travel orders, claims, and vouchers
- Led planning and execution of major exercises and training events, including VIGILANT EAGLE and AMALGAM EAGLE, effectively managing budgets and coordinating with international partners to enhance theater security
- Demonstrated advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and federal software, creating and maintaining detailed spreadsheets for personnel and performance tracking, and producing precise correspondence, briefings, and reports
Division Manager / Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer
United States Navy - USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72)
01.2011 - 10.2012
- Supervised a team of 150 in safe fueling and de-fueling operations for embarked aircraft, ensuring rigorous adherence to safety regulations and maintaining high operational readiness
- Directed divisional training programs and personnel qualifications, achieving 850 qualifications and surpassing ship qualification standards
- Managed aviation fuel and lube oil systems, ensuring accurate accounting and efficient budget use
- Oversaw launch and recovery operations, managing personnel and ensuring the operational readiness of catapults and arresting gear engines, contributing to the USS Abraham Lincoln’s receipt of the Commander, Naval Air Forces Air Department Yellow “E.”
- Administered the issuance and receipt of JP-5 fuel, supporting over 9,700 missions and managing a $5 billion aircraft carrier as Officer of the Deck
Department Manager / Task Group Watch Officer
United States Navy - Commander Task Force 72
03.2008 - 01.2011
- Managed evaluation and analysis of anti-submarine and reconnaissance data for six deployed P-3C squadrons, ensuring effective command and control during operations
- Coordinated operations, logistics, and training for squadron detachments, securing diplomatic clearances and maintaining readiness through comprehensive briefings and debriefings
- Revitalized the command training program, achieving a 100% completion rate for training requirements and qualifying 15 Watch Officers
- Supervised maintenance and upgrades of Tactical Operations Center (TOC) systems and facilities, leading preventative and corrective maintenance actions to achieve high system availability rates
Training and Readiness Manager / Instructor Naval Flight Officer
United States Navy - Patrol Squadron 16
02.2005 - 03.2008
- Managed the squadron Naval Flight Officer training program for 50 personnel, overseeing certification, currency, upgrade, and mission qualifications
- Developed and implemented training plans, enhancing aircrew proficiency and contributing to the squadron’s top performance and award recognitions
- Directed aircrew training during a high-intensity deployment, achieving top readiness and contributing to the squadron’s receipt of the Navy Battle “E” and Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy
- Utilized automated systems (FIST and FLTMPS) to monitor training progress and maintain accurate records
Education
Bachelor’s - Industrial Technology
Western Colorado University
Gunnison, COSkills
- Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint
- Experienced with US Navy Training Management Systems Sierra Hotel Aviation Readiness (SHARP) and Flight Information Scheduling and Tracking (FIST) programs
- 7 years operational flying experience and 7 years experience managing aircrew training programs
- Strong oral and written communication skills
Clearance
Previously held Top Secret / SCI Eligible Clearance (re-investigation required as of 12/01/18).
Awards
- Defense Meritorious Service Medal
- Navy Commendation Medal (3)
- Navy Achievement Medal (2)
Timeline
Training Department Manager / Instructor Naval Flight Officer
United States Navy - Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 30 (VX-30)
02.2015 - 07.2018
Executive Officer / Lead Exercise Planner
United States Navy - NORAD and U.S. Northern Command
10.2012 - 02.2015
Division Manager / Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer
United States Navy - USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72)
01.2011 - 10.2012
Department Manager / Task Group Watch Officer
United States Navy - Commander Task Force 72
03.2008 - 01.2011
Training and Readiness Manager / Instructor Naval Flight Officer
United States Navy - Patrol Squadron 16
02.2005 - 03.2008
Bachelor’s - Industrial Technology
Western Colorado University
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