Ernest Caldwell III
Warner Robins,GA
Summary
Experienced Shift Lead with proven background in managing team operations, improving productivity, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Strengths include strong leadership skills, ability to multitask and adapt quickly to changing situations. Previous roles demonstrate impact in fostering cohesive teams, implementing process improvements and maintaining high standards of service. Precision-driven Low Observable (Stealth) Aircraft Structural Maintenance Craftsman known for high productivity and efficiency in task completion. Specialize in corrosion control, metal fabrication, and composite repair which are critical for maintaining aircraft structural integrity. In-depth understanding of B-2 Stealth Bomber and F-22 Fighter technical order publication acquisition and management policies/requirements. Excel in team collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability, ensuring seamless operations and project success. Proactive and versatile professional with a dedication to quickly adapting to new challenges. Proficient in preparing presentations and communicating effectively, both orally and in writing.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Shift Leader
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
Langley, VA
01.2023 - 12.2024
- Conducted daily pre-shift meetings for 20 team members to ensure smooth operation of the shift.
- Assisted customers with inquiries, complaints, and concerns in a timely manner.
- Seven years technical background/education and experience in Fighter F- 22 low observable maintenance, structural maintenance, flight crew operations, aircraft support, and training equipment maintenance.
- Ensured that all employees adhered to established safety regulations and guidelines.
- Organized staff schedules and breaks according to store requirements.
- Provided feedback on employee performance during monthly evaluations.
- Resolved conflicts between employees or customers in an efficient manner.
- Communicated regularly with other departments regarding product availability, pricing issues.
- Displayed leadership skills by motivating team members to meet daily goals.
Security Manager
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
Langley, VA
11.2021 - 01.2023
- Provided functional oversight of physical & personal security training program for 53 F-22 weapon systems valued at $7.6 Billion.
- Developed and enforced security policies, procedures, and protocols to protect confidential information.
- Conducted regular staff training on security policies and procedures.
- Audited existing security systems for potential vulnerabilities and implemented corrective measures as necessary.
- Investigated security incidents to determine root cause, impact, and recommend remediation plans.
- Analyzed system logs regularly using SIEM tools to detect malicious activities or policy violations.
- Created reports summarizing findings from investigations into data breaches or other cybersecurity-related events.
- Responded promptly to alerts generated by SIEM tools regarding suspicious activity on the network and systems environment.
- Recommended changes in processes and procedures related to information security and risk management.
- Trained new security officers on safety protocols and company standards.
- Recorded required data for incident reports and files.
Support Lead
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
Langley, VA
10.2020 - 11.2021
- Maintained accurate records of equipment account totaling $8 Million, repair and maintenance costs.
- Identified and resolved system performance bottlenecks in a timely manner.
- Responded to customer inquiries via telephone, email, chat.
- Assisted in the training of new staff members on customer service techniques.
- Coached and mentored junior support personnel in resolving complex problems.
- Collaborated with other departments to resolve cross-functional issues.
- Ensured compliance with established policies and procedures related to customer service operations.
- Established relationships with key stakeholders from external organizations.
- Performed regular inspections of equipment to ensure proper functioning and safety standards were met.
- Provided technical support to staff on the use of specialized production machinery.
- Ordered parts needed for repairs or preventive maintenance activities as required.
- Planned, scheduled, coordinated, and monitored projects related to equipment maintenance and upgrades.
- Managed budgets for capital purchases and ensured cost-effectiveness in purchasing decisions.
- Managed equipment, tools and truck inventory efficiently to ensure supply met demand.
Crew Lead
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
Langley, VA
07.2018 - 10.2020
- Monitored employee performance for 8 employees and provided feedback for improvement.
- Provided guidance and support to team members in order to ensure successful completion of tasks.
- Assigned work duties, monitored workflow, and evaluated results.
- Resolved conflicts between employees while maintaining a positive working environment.
- Enforced safety regulations and ensured compliance with company policies.
Aircraft Structural Maintenance Craftsman
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
Langley, VA
04.2017 - 06.2018
- Performed routine maintenance tasks on aircraft, such as cleaning, lubricating, and replacing parts.
- Inspected aircraft components to detect any signs of wear or malfunctioning.
- Repaired damaged airframes and wing assemblies using hand tools and power tools.
- Conducted pre-flight inspections to determine if aircraft was ready for flight operations.
- Used specialized tools such as torque wrenches and micrometers for precise measurements.
- Cleaned up hazardous materials from work areas following safety guidelines.
- Applied corrosion preventive treatments during regular maintenance checks.
- Followed detailed instructions while conducting complex repairs on the aircraft.
- Updated technical manuals with latest information regarding changes in design or functionality of various parts.
- Provided technical advice and guidance to junior technicians when needed.
- Researched, read and interpreted technical manuals and guidelines before inspections, installations and repairs.
- Reported issues, malfunctions, unusual wear, or damage to appropriate personnel.
Corrosion Technician
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
Whiteman Air Force Base, MO
12.2013 - 04.2017
- Inspected and monitored corrosion of pipelines, tanks and other equipment to ensure safety.
- Applied technical judgment to properly determine technical order publications requirements for day to day flight operations.
- Upheld stealth capabilities of B-2 Bomber by maintaining radar-absorbent materials, applying low observable coatings/materials.
- Performed visual inspections of composite/steel surfaces using a range of instruments such as boroscopes, micometers, microscopes and endoscopes.
- Maintained records of all inspection activities, including photographs taken during surveys.
- Developed plans for coating systems to protect metal surfaces from corrosive elements in the environment.
- Applied protective coatings such as paint, epoxy or galvanizing compounds onto metal surfaces according to manufacturer's instructions.
- Installed cathodic protection systems designed to reduce the rate at which metals corrode.
Guest Service Attendant/Manager
TARGET CORPORATION
Fredericksburg, USA
06.2006 - 10.2013
- Provided customer service support for returns, exchanges, and resolved customer complaints/issues
- Managed team member (employee) break schedules
- Responsible for collecting currency from cash register and safe delivery to treasury during closing operations
- Displayed organizational and time management skills
- Coordinated with Store Team Lead to achieve annual company’s sales mission
Education
B.S. Technical Management -
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
03.2025
Associate’s degree - Airframe Structural Maintenance
Community College of the Air Force
01.2021
Airman Leadership School -
Langley AFB
VA01.2019
Basic Military Training -
Lackland AFB
TX01.2014
Technical Training School - Low Observable Aircraft Structural Maintenance
Pensacola NAS
FL01.2014
Skills
- Operations Management
- Quality Assurance
- Proficient at managing and facilitating tasks
- Proficient at asset acquisition and logistics/supply chain management
- Technical Drawing Interpretation
- Corrosion prevention
- Project Planning
- Mechanical Knowledge
- Crew Supervision
- Scheduling
- Inspections
- Safety and security procedures
- Resource Allocation
- Training Oversight
- Report Writing
- Productivity monitoring
- Performance Improvement
- Decision-making capabilities
- Team motivation
Accomplishments
- Air and Space Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service (2023)
- Air Force Achievement Medal for Meritorious Service (2024, 2017)
Languages
German
Native/ Bilingual
Security Clearance
- Secret
- Special Access Program (SAP) Eligible
Timeline
Shift Leader
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
01.2023 - 12.2024
Security Manager
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
11.2021 - 01.2023
Support Lead
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
10.2020 - 11.2021
Crew Lead
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
07.2018 - 10.2020
Aircraft Structural Maintenance Craftsman
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
04.2017 - 06.2018
Corrosion Technician
US Air Force- Dept. of Defense
12.2013 - 04.2017
Guest Service Attendant/Manager
TARGET CORPORATION
06.2006 - 10.2013
B.S. Technical Management -
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Associate’s degree - Airframe Structural Maintenance
Community College of the Air Force
Airman Leadership School -
Langley AFB
Basic Military Training -
Lackland AFB
Technical Training School - Low Observable Aircraft Structural Maintenance
Pensacola NAS
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