James Hodges
Virginia,MN
Summary
Aircraft Structural Mechanic with expertise in structural repairs and safety compliance. Proven track record in training junior mechanics and executing modifications to improve aircraft performance. Strong knowledge of standard hardware and materials, with a commitment to operational excellence and adherence to military standards.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Aircraft Structural Mechanic
United States Air Force, USAF
Tucson, Arizona
07.2019 - 12.2025
- Performed thorough inspections of aircraft structures to identify and assess damage or wear.
- Executed structural repairs on various aircraft components, ensuring compliance with military standards.
- Maintained tools and equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety during aircraft maintenance.
- Documented all maintenance activities in technical logs to maintain accurate aircraft histories.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to interpret blueprints and technical specifications for repairs.
- Trained junior mechanics in safety protocols and maintenance procedures to enhance team performance.
- Implemented safety compliance measures to reduce risks during maintenance operations.
- Utilized precision measuring tools to verify structural integrity post-repair.
- Assisted in the development and revision of technical documentation for maintenance processes.
- Inspected and assessed aircraft components for compliance with safety and performance standards.
- Executed modifications to aircraft structures based on engineering directives and specifications.
- Cleaned repaired areas before applying primer coatings or paint finishes to the surface of the repaired structure.
- Applied sealants to prevent leakage of fluids from joints and seams between structural members.
- Collaborated closely with other mechanics in order to ensure timely completion of assigned tasks.
- Conducted periodic inspections of aircraft structure to detect signs of corrosion or damage due to wear or fatigue.
- Utilized precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers and dial indicators during inspection processes.
- Performed maintenance on airframes and other aircraft systems according to established procedures.
- Provided guidance and training to less experienced mechanics on the job site.
- Fabricated replacement parts using sheet metal cutting shears, brakes and forming dies when necessary.
- Drilled holes in structural parts for rivets or bolts.
- Replaced worn or defective parts using appropriate tools and equipment.
- Performed repairs on composite materials used in modern aircraft construction such as fiberglass reinforced plastic.
- Installed new structural parts, such as stringers, ribs, bulkheads, floor boards, control surfaces and tail sections.
- Aligned structural assemblies with jigs and fixtures prior to joining them with fasteners.
- Assisted in troubleshooting complex problems related to aircraft structure.
- Assembled aircraft subassemblies by bolting or riveting components together.
- Researched technical manuals for information regarding repair techniques for specific components.
- Inspected and tested aircraft components for conformance to specifications.
- Fabricated, repaired, and installed aircraft structural assemblies.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to modify aircraft structures for performance enhancements.
- Performed corrosion control and applied protective coatings to aircraft structures.
- Trained junior mechanics in aircraft structural maintenance techniques and safety protocols.
- Interpreted and followed technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics for maintenance procedures.
- Inspected aircraft structural components for stress damage and initiated repairs.
- Assisted in aircraft weight and balance calculations following structural modifications.
- Managed inventory of structural parts and materials, ensuring availability for scheduled maintenance.
- Inspected and verified dimensions and clearances of parts to verify conformance to factory specifications.
Education
High School Diploma -
Woodstock North Highschool
Woodstock, IL03-2018
Skills
- Structural repairs
- Technical documentation
- Blueprint interpretation
- Composite materials
- Inventory management
- Maintenance scheduling
- Parts ordering
- Problem solving
- Team training
- Effective communication
- Safety compliance
- Tool and equipment management
- Fastener selection
- Precision sheet metal work
- Rivet installation expertise
- Technical documentation interpretation
- Pneumatic system repair
- Composite material repair
- Structural assembly techniques
- Aviation safety regulations
- Weight and balance calculations
- Advanced blueprint reading
- Flight control surface maintenance
- Aircraft corrosion control
- Sealant application techniques
- Preventative maintenance
- Corrosion control techniques
- Maintenance documentation
- Composite material fabrication
- Fastener identification
- Sheet metal work
- Technical manual interpretation
Timeline
Aircraft Structural Mechanic
United States Air Force, USAF
07.2019 - 12.2025
High School Diploma -
Woodstock North Highschool