John Kapalcik
Summary
Adept Sr. Research Chemist with a proven track record at Sparton Defense Electronics, enhancing intellectual property related to Navy ASW products through innovative sonar advancements. Excelled in collaborative problem-solving and maintaining rigorous safety standards, leading to significant advancements in sonar sensitivity. Mentored junior chemists, fostering professional growth, and streamlined laboratory procedures, markedly improving search efficiency.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
Work History
Sr. Research Chemist
Sparton Defense Electronics Subsidiary of Elbit
12.1998 - 12.2024
- Played a key role in developing the organization''s intellectual property portfolio related to the main product, that being Sonobuoys, an extremely sensitive sonar device dropped in the ocean to listen for enemy submarines by creating increasingly sensitive sonar reflections This sensitivity was a result of creating sensitive formulations that reacted specifically to various chemistries within the cured polyurethanes. My duties involved the preparations of various patent applications for novel classified compounds and chemical innovations that then went on to being tested by the Naval Research Labs prior to being applied to submarines.
- Presented findings at industry conferences, enhancing the organization''s reputation as a leader in cutting-edge research.
- Improved quality control measures by developing and implementing rigorous testing protocols that led to more consistent results.
- Mentored junior chemists and provided guidance on their projects, fostering professional growth and improving team performance.
- Increased efficiency in research projects by streamlining laboratory procedures and implementing innovative techniques.
- Evaluated potential vendors for raw materials procurement, selecting high-quality suppliers while reducing costs for the company.
ASW Polyurethane Compounder
Biwax Corporation
08.1995 - 10.1998
- Demonstrated attention to detail while measuring out precise quantities of raw materials, ensuring successful batch outcomes.
- Communicated with clients regarding complex job orders to maximize clarity and work instructions.
- Exceeded production goals by implementing process improvements and streamlining workflow efficiency within the compounding department.
Staff Chemist
Sparton Defense Electronics-Div. of Elbit Corp.
06.1989 - 03.1995
- Performed technical laboratory functions in compliance with regulatory agencies and safety requirements.
- Established quality control measures for instrumentation and monitored data quality to operate instrument with control limits.
- Enhanced product quality by developing and optimizing chemical processes and procedures.
- Coordinated and performed analytical tests to comply with established standards and specifications.
Jr. Tire Compounder
Firestone Tire & Rubber Co.
12.1983 - 02.1989
- Assembled and disassembled all tools and equipment required for batch-making process according to safety, GMP, quality and sanitation standards. These raw materials were used by Sr. compounders in assembling tires with improved performance.
- Managed inventory levels of raw materials to prevent stockouts or excessive storage costs, maintaining efficient operations.
- Achieved quality metrix according to goals while exceeding production targets by significant measures.
- Returned raw materials to inventory with correct quantity and information listed on containers.
Education
Master of Science - Industrial Chemistry
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL01-1995
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA12-1983
Skills
- Hazardous materials handling
- Polymer chemistry
- Analytical chemistry
- Organic synthesis
- Vendor negotiation
- Intellectual property
- Spectroscopy techniques
- Experimental design
- Customer focus
- Collaborative Problem-solving
Additional Information
I am in the process of continuing a long career in both military and commercial chemical R&D, having worked for over 42 years now on many newly proposed products and writing white papers related to proposed concepts that needed to be assessed along with other Engineers, Mathematicians, and low frequency Acoustic Specialists. My employment with Sparton Defense Corporation came to an end when the company unfortunately lost a significant amount of contracts due to increased composition in the Sonobuoy business. I left the company on a good note, i.e, it is somewhat surreal considering the amount of work I put into that particular company after all these years. I can provide multiple references from both current and past management employees on all levels if requested.
I believe my past experiences make me a strong candidate for your "Analyst 2" position, and I whole-heartedly ask that I be strongly considered for the position.
Timeline
Sr. Research Chemist
Sparton Defense Electronics Subsidiary of Elbit
12.1998 - 12.2024
ASW Polyurethane Compounder
Biwax Corporation
08.1995 - 10.1998
Staff Chemist
Sparton Defense Electronics-Div. of Elbit Corp.
06.1989 - 03.1995
Jr. Tire Compounder
Firestone Tire & Rubber Co.
12.1983 - 02.1989
Master of Science - Industrial Chemistry
University of Central Florida
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of Pittsburgh
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