John David Martinez
Summary
Detail-oriented Airframe & Powerplant graduate with hands-on expertise in structural repairs and sheet metal fabrication. Proficient in interpreting technical documentation and executing precision repairs to FAA standards. Successfully conducted NDE inspections and contributed to significant projects, including an Allison 250 turbine engine overhaul and support for the NASA X-38.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Airframe & Powerplant Technology
Texas State Technical College
09.2024 - 05.2026
- Performed detailed structural repairs and sheet metal assembly fabrication on aircraft, manufacturing critical components such as replacement spars, ribs, structural skins, stringers, webs, and seat tracks using non-porous metals including aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel.
- Precisely assembled components using solid and cherry rivets, bolts, and fasteners, strictly following engineering blueprints, schematics, assembly drawings, specifications, standard operating procedures, maintenance manuals, and FAA regulatory guidelines.
- Utilized structures hand tools including 45 and 90 drills, pancake adapters, countersink cages, hole finders, and rivet guns to complete structural modifications, repairs, and component installations with exact dimensional accuracy and alignment.
- Conducted Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) inspections, including visual inspection and dye penetrant testing, to identify structural defects, corrosion, and fatigue damage, ensuring safety and reliability.
- Utilized a variety of calibrated precision measurement tools including micrometers, calipers, feeler gauges, depth gauges, and torque wrenches.
Diesel Mechanic
Burns Motors
01.2020 - 08.2024
- Executed preventative maintenance on heavy-duty diesel powerplant and support machinery, adhering to service intervals and OEM technical manuals, ensuring operational availability and system reliability by interpreting work instructions, blueprints and schematics.
- Operated precision tooling and heavy support equipment, including hydraulic presses, torque wrenches, and pneumatic lifts, while strictly enforcing shop safety standards and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures to prevent injury.
- Performed critical fluid system services and component replacements, including high-pressure hydraulic lines and pneumatic brake assemblies, verifying system integrity through rigorous pressure testing and leak checks post-installation.
Skills
- Aircraft Systems
- Precision tools
- Technical Manual Interpretation
- Troubleshooting & Diagnostics
- Engine Maintenance
Education
- University of Texas Rio Grande Valley - Dec 2023
Bachelors of Science - Kinesiology
- Texas State Technical College - May 2026
Associates of Applied Science Airframe & Powerplant Technology
Certifications
- Airframe & Powerplant License
Project Experience
Allison 250 Turbine Overhaul
Airframe Technology
- Executed a complete "nut-and-bolt" overhaul of an Allison 250 gas turbine engine, systematically disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling both Cold and Hot sections in strict accordance with FAA-approved Overhaul Manuals
- Utilized precision measuring instruments (micrometers, dial bore gauges) to verify dimensional tolerances of internal rotating assemblies, ensuring all compressor and turbine components met rigorous manufactures "Return to Service" limits.
- Performed comprehensive post-overhaul engine run-up procedures and troubleshooting, successfully starting the engine and validating that all vibration, temperature, and pressure parameters remained within operational limits.
NASA X-38 Project
Powerplant Technology
- Fabricated and installed stainless steel rigid fluid lines for the vehicles high-pressure propulsion system, replacing critical valve components to restore system integrity and maintain full operational readiness.
- Executed the removal and replacement of composite structural access panels, strictly inspecting fastener integrity and surface flushness to ensure aerodynamic compliance for the lifting-body airframe.
- Conducted safe ground handling operations, including towing the X-38 vehicle in and out of the hanger, coordinating with wing-walkers and adhering to strict ramp safety protocols to prevent aircraft damage.
Timeline
Airframe & Powerplant Technology
Texas State Technical College
09.2024 - 05.2026
Diesel Mechanic
Burns Motors
01.2020 - 08.2024