Heath McClain
New London,MO
Summary
Highly motivated and experienced Shift Head Lock and Dam Operator with 17 years of dedicated service at Lock and Dam 22 on the Upper Mississippi River. Proven ability to lead and direct a 2-person team during operational shifts, ensuring safe and efficient lockage operations, and maintaining critical infrastructure. Completed both Leadership Development Program Levels I & II, demonstrating a commitment to continuous professional development. Also, a minority owner and administrator of a successful small business providing independent supported living services. A highly disciplined and technically proficient U.S. Marine Corps veteran with experience as an Engineer Equipment Mechanic. Seeking a promotion to a Lock and Dam Equipment Repair Supervisor (Assistant Lockmaster) to leverage extensive expertise in lock/dam systems, regulatory compliance, and emergency response – to contribute to the continued safe and reliable navigation of the waterway.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Shift Head Lock and Dam Operator
U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers, Rock Island District
11.2008 - Current
- Led and directed a 2-person team during operational shifts, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of Lock and Dam 22's Lock Chamber and associated equipment.
- Responsible for the accurate documentation of lockage events, equipment maintenance, operational data, and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements and maintaining detailed logs.
- Led preventative maintenance and inspection for Lock and Dam 22’s infrastructure, identifying and resolving potential equipment malfunctions to minimize downtime and ensuring operational readiness.
- Operation of lock equipment on site to include Tractors, Lawn Mowers, Scooters, Life Boats, and Work Flat. Modifying or fabricating lock equipment and or structures by use of welding (steel and aluminum), oxygen and acetylene torches, and carpentry. Miner concrete repair to include concrete cutting, jackhammering and removal, rebar installation, and concrete pouring and finishing.
- The use of many hand tools and power tools such as hammers, screw drivers, socket sets, wrenches, tape measures, squares, chisels, nut drivers, voltmeter, wire stripers, belt sanders, grinders, table saw, portable band saw, jig saw, reciprocating saw, concrete saws, electric hammer drills, drill press, hand held drills, jackhammers, hydraulic jacks, needle guns and other pneumatic tool.
- Trained and mentored new Lock Operators on proper procedures, safety protocols, and equipment operation, fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
- Serve as the site’s Fall Protection Competent Person, responsible for conducting hazard assessments, developing fall protection plans, and ensuring compliance with our safety regulations.
- Played a key role in preparing Lock and Dam 22 for multiple major flood events (2013, 2014, 2019), including securing equipment, implementing flood control measures, post-flood recovery efforts, including damage assessment, equipment repair, debris removal, and restoration of operational capabilities, and mentoring operators without flood experience.
- Lead Operator for the Lock Performance Monitoring System (LPMS): Responsible for monthly review of LPMS reports, identifying and correcting data errors, and ensuring data integrity. Mentor other Lock Operators on proper LPMS usage and data interpretation.
Minority Owner & Administrator
Lena McClain Group Homes – Independent Supported Living
01.2024 - Current
- Responsible for the overall operation and management of two independent supported living homes, providing care and support to five clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
- Operational Management: Oversee operations, including staff meetings, client care coordination, and facility maintenance for both homes. Directly supervise the House Manager and provide senior-level supervision to a team of 13 employees across both locations.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations governing supported living services.
- Leadership & Team Development: Foster a positive and supportive work environment, providing ongoing training and mentorship to staff to enhance their skills and ensure high-quality client care.
Lock and Dam Operator
U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers, Rock Island District
New London, MO
11.2008 - 11.2012
- Gained foundational experience in lock and dam operations at Lock and Dam 22, including lockage procedures, equipment operation, and safety protocols.
- Assisted with maintenance and inspection activities at Lock and Dam 22, contributing to the overall reliability of the lock and dam infrastructure.
Engineer Equipment Mechanic
United States Marine Corps Reserve
07.2003 - 07.2009
- Maintained, repaired, and overhauled a wide range of heavy construction and tactical vehicles.
- Preventative Maintenance: Performed scheduled preventative maintenance inspections and services to ensure optimal equipment performance and readiness.
- Troubleshooting & Repair: Diagnosed and repaired complex mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems, utilizing technical manuals and diagnostic equipment.
- Logistics & Inventory Management: Managed parts inventory and maintained accurate maintenance records.
Education
High School Diploma -
Hannibal High School
Automotive Technology Training - undefined
Hannibal Career and Technical Center
Skills
- Lock and Dam Operation: Operation of Dam consisting of ten tainter gates and three roller gates for regulating pool elevations Operation of electrical interlocking miter gate and tainter valve controls to operate the lock chamber Operation of tow haulage units and valve hydraulic assist to help tows safely pass through the lock
- Leadership & Supervision: Team leadership, training, mentoring, conflict resolution, performance management, shift management
- Safety Management: Hazard identification, risk assessment, safety procedures, emergency response, fall protection program management
- Technical Skills: Mechanical systems, electrical systems, diesel engine repair, heavy equipment maintenance, LPMS data analysis & troubleshooting
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Clear and concise communication (verbal & written), active listening, teamwork, collaboration
- Problem Solving: Troubleshooting, critical thinking, decision-making
Certification
- USACE IMTS Certified Lock and Dam Operator – 2015
- First Aid/CPR/AED Certification – Current (Last renewed January 2025)
- Fall Protection Competent Person (2020)
- Leadership Development Program I (2016)
- Leadership Development Program II (2024)
Timeline
Minority Owner & Administrator
Lena McClain Group Homes – Independent Supported Living
01.2024 - Current
Lock and Dam Operator
U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers, Rock Island District
11.2008 - 11.2012
Shift Head Lock and Dam Operator
U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers, Rock Island District
11.2008 - Current
Engineer Equipment Mechanic
United States Marine Corps Reserve
07.2003 - 07.2009
Automotive Technology Training - undefined
Hannibal Career and Technical Center
High School Diploma -
Hannibal High School