James Randy Ward
Madison
Summary
Results-driven quality management professional with extensive experience in driving process improvements and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Expertise in root cause analysis, auditing, and quality control methodologies enhances product standards while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Proven track record of effective team collaboration and adaptability to evolving needs underscores a commitment to achieving organizational goals. Recognized for reliability, strong problem-solving skills, and exceptional communication abilities that facilitate seamless operations and elevate team performance.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Quality Manager
MDA
Huntsville, AL
03.2017 - 07.2025
- Worked with the supervision and guidance of Manufacturing Engineers, System Engineers, and Quality Engineers in the following areas over the past several years.
- Provide Quality & Manufacturing Assurance support and technical expertise to the THAAD Ground Systems Product Office. Serve as the Quality Assurance Representative for select ground systems Integrated Product Teams.
- Reviewed and provided comments for numerous contract deliverables (Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) for MRP-Ts, Peculiar Support Equipment (PSE) THAAD Active Leak Sensor System (TALSS) Detector, and Remote Launcher Kit (RLK) and other various THAAD Battery components.
- Contributed and Participated in Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) for DC Power Distribution Unit (DCPDU), Launcher, and Missile Umbilical Junction Box Assembly (MUJBA) amongst others.
- Lead Quality personnel and various Engineers performing Product Quality Management related tasks such as facility certifications, special inspection, equipment validations, first article inspections, pre-ship reviews, equipment demonstrations, design reviews, and production process baseline (PPB)/Quality audits utilizing QMS compliant standards AS9100 and ISO9001 standards.
- Conducted, supported and participated in ground systems hardware qualifications, acceptance and design verification testing, and other programmatic activities such as manufacturing production validations, manufacturing reviews, failure review boards, quarterly program reviews and technical interchange meetings that impact quality. Utilizing AS9100 and ISO9001 standards.
- Performed QSMA technical evaluation of the Phase II FMS Case for Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), providing detailed evaluations of QSMA Basis of Estimates (BOEs).
- Performed Material Process Verification (MPV) for THAAD Fire Control Systems and Communications hardware (Radio Power Supply (RPS), Power Filter Unit (PFU), and Power Distribution Unit (PDU).
- Performed First Article Inspection (FAI) Review on RPS, PFU, PDU amongst others.
- Actively facilitated/participated in THAAD program and Ground System QSMA meetings and forums such: Ground (TFCC/Launcher/PSE) Hardware Interface Team, THAAD Notice of Change (NOC) Tracker, Ground Management Team, THN (THAAD Ground Systems) Staff Call, Supplier Quality Corrective Action Board (CAB) meetings, THAAD Ground Daily Production Status meeting, THAAD Senior CAB, and Manufacturing/ Quality Tag Up serving as the Launcher Quality Lead.
- Lead MDA team workforce and performed (MPV) on Welding Sub-Frame-Elbow, Bail Bar to Plate, Plate - Sub frame, Final Assembly, Final ATP, Deck Machining on Henri Line and was key participant in witnessing all (FAIs) at facility.
- Provided technical support in the Production Issue Resolution Teams (PIRT) - Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) Testing Failures & TALSS Detector Failure Rate.
- Facilitated and participated in (MPV) in Lufkin, TX on Enhanced Crew Access Unit (eCAU) The scope of the test was to identify requirements for production acceptance test for eCAU, along with the data to be collected at each test level.
- Participated in Multiple Launcher Elevation Cylinder Head Failure Review Boards (FRB) went over the GO/NOGO Gage and worked with the Contract Logistics Support (CLS) team leads with the process and procedures in inspecting their assets.
- Conducted meetings with OshKosh and discussed the results of the testing of the pins and the material used.
- The (FRB) isolated to Pin/Collar press fit joint and collar axial load, Fault Tree was finalized, the corrective action that was most favorable fix was Snap Ring.
- Facilitated and participated in FAIs at Lufkin, TX. Met with key personnel, Reviewed SOW (Statement of Work) and WI (Work Instructions), Oversaw a FAIs on multiple cables for the Cable Assembly, Power, Electrical-W360, Cable Assembly, Special Purpose, Electrical-W358, and Cable Assembly, Power, Electrical-W363 and the Under Run Bumper (URB).
- Conducted multiple trips to United Arab Emirates in overseeing THAAD FMS case as Lead for Quality Assurance Team for the delivery of multiple deliverables.
- Performed technical reviews of E-Logs, Quality Notes, Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs)/Deviations/ Waivers, First Article Inspections (FAI) Environmental Stress Screening (ESS) Data, Final as Designed/As Built (ADAB) data, Proof Load, and Quick Look reports for MRP-Ts that have been DD-250'd.
Quality Manager
AMRDEC
Huntsville, AL
07.2015 - 03.2017
- Provided quality manager support and technical support to Program Executive Offices, Program Managers, Engineering Directorate, Aviation and Missile Research Development and Engineering Center (AMRDEC), Aviation and Missile Command community, Depots, other Government Agencies, and Contractors.
- Maintain an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance and active Passport.
- Served as subject matter expert mentoring and supporting AMRDEC THAAD/PATRIOT Quality Assurance Team (QAT) for Security Assistance Management Directorate (SAMD) missions associated with FMS Cases from July 2017 through Jul 2025.
- Handling transportation, loading/unloading of THAAD Interceptors, and all associated equipment pertaining to fielding THAAD and PATRIOT Missile Systems.
- Applying THAAD and PATRIOT technical expertise allowing the inventory/acceptance receipt of all listed THAAD Interceptors and associated fielding equipment during this period to move smoothly and rapidly to the respective fielding sites to assure the timeline could be met and minimize damage.
- Utilizing QMS compliant standards and AS9100 and ISO9001 standards.
- U.A.E. expressed great appreciation for my assistance and attention to detail that generated many successful missions.
- July 2017 through Jul 2025 serve as the THAAD AMRDEC FMS Lead focal point/liaison between U.A.E. commands while working with AMRDEC/MDA PM /SAMD/Lockheed Martin.
- Provided THAAD technical support for FMS Countries (CONUS/OCONUS) during planning and scheduling, port visits (AIR), and for handling, transportation, unloading of THAAD Missile Rounds and all associated equipment pertaining to fielding THAAD Missile Systems (CONUS/OCONUS).
- Completed assignments that required research, data collection/analysis, and reporting relative to the missions of U.A.E FMS case by having to produce timely and quality responses to AMRDEC/MDA/CLS/FMS Logistics and SAMD.
- Ensured lessons learned were shared with all appropriate team members within Quality, Safety, Mission Assurance, and Program/Project Office ensuring mistakes were not duplicated.
- Established a highly effective working relationship with management, co-workers, contractor personnel as well as representatives of various command levels to include but not limited to: AMRDEC/MDA, TPO, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, LTPO, and SAMD (CONUS/OCONUS) and all FMS foreign commands.
- Independently analyzed Product Quality Manufacturing (PQM) processes, procedures and methods, developing specific improvements and follow through to implementation.
- Utilizing QMS compliant standards and AS9100 and ISO9001 standards.
- Prepare correspondence and work products, assuring correctness (AR 25-50).
- Perform duties as Action Point Officer for Product Quality Deficiency Reports (PQDR) as a liaison between customers and support contractors/government agencies (depot).
- Assisted management in scheduling and performing: Pre-Awards, Post-Awards, Initial Production Visits, First Article Visits, Technical Reviews, Subcontractor Audits, Materiel Fielding, Security Assistance Visits, Foreign Military Sales, Product Oriented Surveys, and all other Quality Management related trips for THAAD and PATRIOT systems.
- Established and maintained an effective working relationship with all internal and external customers to assure customer satisfaction and mission accomplishment.
- Responded to all requests and constantly took the lead in checking with customers on their needs, working to improve their level of satisfaction.
- Kept management within AMRDEC, and all customers informed of any technical and financial tasking through effective communication (orally and written), with interim and closeout status provided in a timely manner.
- Collaborated with QM management and MDA project office in scheduling and performing: Technical Reviews, Subcontractor Audits, Materiel Fielding, Foreign Military Sales, and other Quality Management related trips.
- Supported the implementation of the Division Strategic Plan.
- Assisted in the development of Summary Descriptions; accomplishment of Objectives and Initiatives; and measurements of actions completed.
- Led team in corrosion prevention work group, to help mitigate future corrosion issues USG and FMS customers.
- This is a federal job
QUALITY ASSURANCE SPECIALIST
MCAAP
McAlester, OK
03.2008 - 07.2015
- As a Quality Assurance Specialist Ammunition Surveillance, I worked with the fundamental principles, procedures, and techniques involved in surveillance of production, receipt, supply, inventory, safety, maintenance, storage, shipping and transportation of ammunition.
- Developed and executed shipment and receiving documents relating to the receipt, storage, re-warehousing of ammunition.
- Munition includes conventional ammunition, guided missiles, propellants, chemical munitions and explosive components within the single manager concept of DOD, Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps.
- Possess knowledge of regulations, procedures and work methods, governing storage, handling, shipment, preservation, surveillance and packing of all types of munitions.
- Interpreted and implemented regulations, provided advice, and prepared procedures for safety prevention.
- Investigated accidents, determined causes, and recommended corrective actions.
- Investigated complaints and initiated appropriate remedial action as appropriate.
- Conducted periodic safety surveys/inspections of work areas to assure compliance with safety regulations, rules and standard practices.
- Document findings; follow up on correction of deficiencies.
- Inspected work sites for compliance, shop machinery and related mechanical processes, protective clothing, and fire suppression equipment.
- Investigated mishaps and analyzed contributing actions/conditions and recommended preventive measures.
- Developed, reviewed, analyzed statistical data to determine trends and hazardous and environmental remediation.
- Provided knowledge and skills to advise, plan, develop, coordinate, and evaluate a comprehensive occupational safety and health program for depot officials.
- Coordinated different planning efforts for munitions projects about the safety of planned methods.
- Monitor operations to ensure that proper procedures are followed, that work is performed in accordance with applicable specifications, regulations and that safety precautions are observed.
- Facilitated planning operations in the maintenance, renovation, demilitarization, destruction, shipping, receiving, and re-warehousing of special munitions, complex missile systems, propellant, contingency stock, and conventional ammunition.
- Prepared and reviewed Standard Operations Procedures (SOP) for receiving demilitarization, storage, and shipment of ammunition.
- Contributed to preparing and developing detailed cost estimates and work orders.
- Researched, studied, and evaluated operations and risks.
- Contributed to identifying, developing methods, techniques to control or eliminate hazardous conditions which occurred during operations.
- Developed and maintained ammunition storage plans to maximize net explosive weight allowance per building in accordance with quantity distance, hazard class, NEW, and compatibility.
- Developed and finalized (SOP) and detailed hazard analyses, participated in development and revision of site safety plans, handled environmental issues.
- Provided informal instruction to work leaders and employees covering a variety of standards, general safety and occupational health subjects including mishap prevention and safe working practices.
- Conducted the execution and development of procedures, and techniques involved in surveillance of production, supply, inventory, safety, maintenance, storage, shipping, and transportation of conventional and Nonconventional ammunition.
- Developed and executed shipping and receiving of ammunition ensuring proper condition coding, proper receipt, quantity distance, hazard classification, grid requirements are met.
- Delivered technical advice and recommended alternative solutions to various projects and problems which require a deviation from established procedures, techniques, and local policy.
- Coordinated activities with other depot elements such as Shipping, Receiving, Inventory, Transportation, and Safety in meeting objectives and functions.
- Ensured that all Department of Defense, Army Regulations, Military Standards, Army Material Command, OSHA, State and Federal Regulations are met in the Shipping, Receiving, Inventory, Transportation, Utilizing QMS compliant standards AS9100 and ISO9001 standards and Safety sections.
- Performed various surveillance concerned with safety and quality of operations involving receipt, maintenance, storage, shipping, production, demilitarization of conventional and non-conventional ammunition.
- Inspected vehicles to ensure proper blocking and bracing applied, fill out inspection DD Form 626 to ensure the safety of vehicle according to 49 CFR, file and fill out proper documentation on Receipt, Storage, and Shipment of ammunition.
- Integrated work performed by others, oversee plans and implement.
- This is a federal job
Education
Bachelor's degree - Administrative Leadership
University of Oklahoma
Norman, OK, United States05.2019
Some college (no degree) - Occupational Safety
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY, United States03.2015
Associate degree - Ammunition Management and Safety
Eastern Oklahoma State College
Wilburton, OK, United States05.2013
Skills
- Internal auditing
- Quality management systems
- Compliance monitoring
- Corrective actions
- Quality processes
- Regulatory compliance
- Document management
- SOP development
- Continuous improvement
- Quality training
- Quality planning
- Quality metrics
- Total quality management
- Product inspection
- Statistical analysis skills
- Document control
- Supplier relationship management
- Team Training
- First-article inspection
- Failure mode and effects analysis
- Customer satisfaction
- Certified manager of quality
- Analytical mindset
- Performance monitoring
- Measurement system analysis
- Sampling plans
- Operational excellence
- Gage R&R studies
- Issue resolution
- Preventive actions
- External auditing
- Control plan development
- Validation techniques
- Operation Monitoring
- Documentation control
- Excellent researching skills
- Operational improvements
- Process capability analysis
- Budget preparation
- Management consulting
- Design of experiments
- Market research experience
- Test method validation
- Problem-solving
- Mastery of quality processes
- Supplier quality management
- Validation management
- SOP review
- Statistical process control
- External audit support
- Decision-making
- Team leadership
- Problem-solving abilities
- Process improvement
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Team development
- Staff training
- Goal setting
- Schedule management
- Emergency response
- Strategic planning
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Multitasking
- Multitasking Abilities
- Reliability
- Excellent communication
- Critical thinking
- Troubleshooting skills
- Organizational skills
- Team collaboration
- Active listening
- Effective communication
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Verbal and written communication
- Production problem resolution
- Safety assessment
- Industrial safety
- Strategic thinker
- Relationship building
- Operational efficiency
- Inventory and stocking
- Team management
- Operating budgets
- Quality control management
- Team building
- Safety protocols
- Health and safety compliance
- Forklift operation
- Task prioritization
- Inventory control programs
- Safety management
- Maintenance planning
- Equipment operation
- Self motivation
Job Related Training
- Certified in Ammo 62 for Technical Transportation of Hazardous Materials.
- Acquisition Workforce Level 3 Production, Quality, and Manufacturing Certification.
- Certification - Lean Manufacturing Simulation.
- EDA Critical Thinking Skills Workshop.
- ISO9001 Certification.
Timeline
Quality Manager
MDA
03.2017 - 07.2025
Quality Manager
AMRDEC
07.2015 - 03.2017
QUALITY ASSURANCE SPECIALIST
MCAAP
03.2008 - 07.2015
Some college (no degree) - Occupational Safety
Eastern Kentucky University
Associate degree - Ammunition Management and Safety
Eastern Oklahoma State College
Bachelor's degree - Administrative Leadership
University of Oklahoma