JAMES HICKS
Antioch,CA
Summary
Experienced and highly motivated Air Transportation Specialist with 20 years of dedicated service in the United States Air Force. Expertise in Aerial Port Operations, with a proven track record of efficiently managing logistics, overseeing hazardous material handling, ensuring passenger and cargo safety, and adhering to safety protocols. Extensive knowledge in resource management, fleet operations, and emergency response procedures, gained through years of coordinating high-stakes, time-sensitive operations. A strong communicator, team leader, and problem-solver, with a deep commitment to improving efficiency, safety, and operational standards.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Air Transportation Manager
United States Air Force
08.2015 - 02.2022
- Led air transportation operations for over 10,000 personnel, ensuring smooth flow of air cargo, passengers, and critical supplies for domestic and international missions.
- Managed the coordination of hazardous materials shipments, ensuring compliance with military and civilian safety standards.
- Played a key role in overseeing aircraft loading and unloading procedures, ensuring accurate documentation, timely deliveries, and safety of personnel and equipment.
- Facilitated the transportation of medical supplies, food, and other high-priority items, ensuring swift delivery to meet mission-critical deadlines.
- Monitored and directed teams to quickly respond to emergency airdrops, adjusting schedules and plans to address urgent needs.
- Coordinated with various agencies to ensure all logistical needs were met, performing cost analyses for component parts, labor hours, and transportation-related expenditures.
- Developed and implemented continuous improvement programs, resulting in reduced delays and enhanced operational efficiency.
- Led safety training sessions for staff, focusing on accident prevention, cargo security, and handling of dangerous goods.
Air Transportation Craftsman
United States Air Force
07.2011 - 08.2015
- Oversaw day-to-day operations of air transportation services, coordinating the safe and efficient loading and unloading of cargo and personnel.
- Trained and supervised staff in transportation procedures, ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations and operational guidelines.
- Managed scheduling and task delegation for a team of 50+ members, optimizing coverage for operational readiness and reducing delays.
- Ensured that hazardous cargo was properly identified, classified, and handled according to Air Force and OSHA standards.
- Coordinated with multiple departments to ensure proper flow of information, and resolve any discrepancies in documentation or shipments.
- Conducted routine vehicle and equipment inspections, ensuring all assets were in working condition and compliant with military regulations.
- Fostered a high-performance work culture by mentoring junior staff and promoting efficiency through standardized procedures.
Air Transportation Journeyman
United States Air Force
07.2005 - 07.2011
- Coordinated air transportation for personnel and cargo, handling the timely scheduling and dispatch of vehicles and equipment.
- Supervised the operations of warehouse teams, ensuring the safe storage, organization, and transportation of military and commercial supplies.
- Implemented and maintained efficient workflows to optimize warehouse and transportation operations, improving productivity and reducing downtime.
- Trained new recruits on standard operating procedures (SOPs) for cargo handling, equipment inspections, and documentation.
- Managed transportation logistics for high-priority shipments, ensuring materials were delivered promptly and securely.
- Played an instrumental role in reducing safety violations by conducting monthly safety meetings and fostering a culture of accountability among staff.
- Participated in audits and inspections, ensuring compliance with safety, regulatory, and logistical standards.
Air Transportation Apprentice
United States Air Force
01.2002 - 05.2005
- Assisted in the operation of transportation equipment, including vehicles and loading/unloading machinery, ensuring the safe transport of goods and personnel.
- Coordinated with freight and shipping companies to arrange transport for military equipment and supplies.
- Developed proficiency in handling hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with Air Force safety protocols.
- Operated a variety of tools and equipment, including power tools, testing gauges, and diagnostic equipment, to perform routine maintenance on transportation machinery.
- Monitored and updated logistics data, including import/export documentation, ensuring all items were tracked and classified correctly.
- Participated in transportation planning, adjusting operations in response to changing mission requirements and deadlines.
Education
High School Diploma -
Hohenfels American High School
06.1998
Skills
- Air Transportation Management
- Logistics Coordination
- Hazardous Cargo Handling
- Safety Protocol Development
- Fleet & Vehicle Inspection
- Warehouse Operations Management
- Training and Staff Development
- Inventory and Materials Management
- International Freight & Customs Procedures
- Air Travel & Passenger Safety
- Transportation Safety Procedures
- Operational Efficiency & Cost Management
- Emergency Operating Procedures (EOP)
- Equipment and Tool Maintenance
- Logistics Information Systems (LIS)
- Quality Control and Compliance
Certification
- Air Force Safety Training
- HAZMAT Certification
- Transportation Safety Protocols Training
- OSHA Compliance Certification
- Logistics & Inventory Management Training
- Military Customs and Freight Procedures
- Emergency Response & Airdrop Procedures
- Leadership Development Training
Languages
English (Fluent)
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Leadership and Management: Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a commitment to leadership and fostering a positive work environment. I have mentored numerous junior personnel, providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in a dynamic, high-pressure environment. I consistently strive to improve operations through data-driven decisions and innovative approaches to logistics, safety, and team management.
- Logistics Operations Optimization: By identifying opportunities for process improvement, I have successfully implemented strategies that reduced transport delays, minimized costs, and improved overall safety. Whether coordinating emergency airdrops or ensuring efficient delivery of goods, I have played an integral role in ensuring that military operations continue to function smoothly and effectively.
Awards
Joint Service Commendation Medal (1), Air Force Commendation Medal (1), Air Force Achievement Medal (3), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (3), Air Force Good Conduct Medal (6)
Timeline
Air Transportation Manager
United States Air Force
08.2015 - 02.2022
Air Transportation Craftsman
United States Air Force
07.2011 - 08.2015
Air Transportation Journeyman
United States Air Force
07.2005 - 07.2011
Air Transportation Apprentice
United States Air Force
01.2002 - 05.2005
High School Diploma -
Hohenfels American High School
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