James Tarpley
Mt. Juliet,TN
Summary
Detail-oriented A&P Mechanic with expertise in aircraft inspection, problem solving, and safety compliance. Proven track record of mentoring junior mechanics and ensuring adherence to high safety standards.
Overview
42
42
years of professional experience
Work History
A&P Mechanic
Jetright Aviation Nashville
Nashville, TN
04.2017 - 07.2026
- Repaired and overhauled engines, landing gear, and hydraulic systems.
- Diagnosed mechanical issues using specialized tools and equipment.
- Performed routine inspections on aircraft systems and components.
- Conducted inspections on aircraft systems to ensure compliance with manufacturer's specifications and FAA regulations.
- Inspected airframes for corrosion damage according to established procedures.
- Repaired or replaced defective parts as necessary using hand tools, power tools, precision measuring instruments, welding equipment, and test equipment.
- Performed operational tests on repaired components prior to returning them to service.
- Calibrated flight control systems in accordance with approved maintenance data sources.
- Disassembled fuel system components for cleaning or repair.
- Replaced worn seals and bearings in engine systems during overhauls.
- Performed routine maintenance such as oil changes on both piston-powered and turbine-powered engines.
- Utilized hand and power tools to detect and repair aircraft malfunctions and damages.
- Assisted in the installation of navigation radios and autopilot systems.
- Fabricated brackets to support replacement avionics units.
- Maintained inventory of tools and replacement parts for operational readiness.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure safety compliance during maintenance tasks.
- Ensured proper torque values on fasteners for safety compliance. of critical fasteners using calibrated torque wrenches.
- Mentored junior mechanics in best practices for aircraft maintenance procedures.
- Maintained a clean work area at all times ensuring safety standards are met.
- Utilized maintenance tracking software to document repairs and inspections.
- Operated ground support equipment such as hoists, jacks, and forklifts.
- Repaired damaged fiberglass fairings by filling cracks with epoxy resin.
- Updated maintenance and repair logs according to services performed and submitted reports to supervisors for review.
Assembler and Machinist
NWI Nashville
Nashville , Tn
07.1984 - 04.2022
- Assembled components following blueprints and specifications accurately.
- Maintained clean and organized workstations for safety and efficiency.
- Operated hand tools and machinery to complete assembly tasks effectively.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure timely production schedules were met.
- Inspected finished products for quality assurance and adherence to standards.
- Trained new employees on assembly processes and safety protocols consistently.
- Adjusted machinery settings to meet production requirements efficiently.
- Documented daily production activities for record-keeping purposes diligently.
- Ensured a safe and tidy work environment to promote efficient operations. by sweeping up debris from assembly operations.
- Assemble components according to specifications using hand tools, power tools, and other equipment.
- Follow established assembly methods and procedures to ensure product quality standards are met.
- Inspect finished products for defects and conformance to customer requirements.
- Align components for proper fit and adjust as necessary during the assembly process.
- Completed accurate assembly work by positioning and aligning components.
- Collaborate with team members to optimize workflow processes within the department.
- Test assembled products for accuracy and functionality prior to final packaging.
- Set up and performed hand and automatic assembly operations on components, sub-assemblies and assemblies.
- Identify problems that may affect product quality and take corrective action when required.
- Notify supervisors of any potential issues that may cause delays in production schedules.
- Operate machines such as drill presses and saws to cut or shape parts during assembly.
- Operated precision tools and equipment to perform dimensions without error.
- Position parts in jigs or fixtures for fastening with bolts, screws, rivets, or other fasteners.
- Adhere strictly to health and safety regulations while carrying out daily tasks.
- Assist in training new employees on proper safety procedures while operating machinery.
- Record production data such as number of units produced, rejected items.
- Sorted and placed materials or items on racks, shelves or in bins according to predetermined sequence.
- Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and work orders to determine the specific assembly instructions.
- Used templates and drawings to complete product according to specifications.
- Utilized templates and read measurements to position parts and subassemblies.
- Monitored processes, reporting abnormalities to management team.
- Provide feedback on design changes that could improve efficiency of the production line.
- Sorted, graded, weighed, and inspected products, verifying and adjusting product weight or measurement to meet specifications.
Education
High School Diploma -
Lebanon High
Lebanon06-1993
Skills
- Aircraft inspection
- Safety compliance
- Problem solving
- Quality assurance
- Attention to detail
- Torque calibration
- Maintenance software
- Hydraulic systems
- Tool control procedures
- Efficient troubleshooting
- Composite material repair
- Sheet metal fabrication
- Flight control rigging
- Oxygen system servicing
- Maintenance documentation
- Precision measuring tools
- Sealant application
- Landing gear inspection
- Corrosion control
- Hydraulic system maintenance
- Structural repair techniques
Timeline
A&P Mechanic
Jetright Aviation Nashville
04.2017 - 07.2026
Assembler and Machinist
NWI Nashville
07.1984 - 04.2022
High School Diploma -
Lebanon High