Joseph F. Aikens Jr.
Niceville,USA
Summary
Strategic leader with 24 years of program and project management experience in advanced aerospace systems. Delivers results by managing cross-functional teams, driving initiatives, and optimizing processes for mission-critical objectives. Skilled in customer engagement, cost management, and navigating complex, high-pressure environments.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Test Engineer & Project Engineering Lead
Lockheed Martin Space
01.2024 - Current
- Managed test team operations, overseeing certification efforts and leading silo integration at key locations (M2, Vandenberg, and Greeley).
- Directed program-wide requirements development, collaborating with stakeholders to align objectives and enhance test execution outcomes.
- Established streamlined processes and policies for requirements and qualifications, resulting in improved efficiency across the team.
- Cultivated strong customer relationships, ensuring ongoing engagement and alignment with evolving program goals.
- Mentored team members, driving professional growth and knowledge-sharing within the organization.
- Spearheaded cross-sector collaboration with Lockheed Martin Aero to launch a CoOp job placement initiative, fostering talent development.
- Completed Lockheed Martin Space Executive Development Growth Enhancement (EDGE) Program in 2025.
Lead Test Engineer & Team Manager
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control
11.2018 - 01.2024
- Managed on-site test engineering operations at Eglin Air Force Base, supporting Advanced Weapons Joint Program Office in achieving program goals.
- Oversaw the execution of ground and flight test events, managing evaluation work packages and ensuring adherence to technical and schedule requirements.
- Successfully led F-22 Jettison and Separation Test Events at Edwards Air Force Base.
- Directed ground test series across Redstone Arsenal, Eglin Air Force Base, and Patuxent River Naval Air Station, enhancing testing capabilities.
- Directed fit checks and test events for advanced platforms, including F-15, F-16, F-18, F-22, and F-35.
- Allocated resources to align with program funding, logistics, and technical objectives, ensuring project success.
- Coordinated Sled Tests and Insensitive Munitions assessments.
Project Engineering Lead – F-35 B61-12 Weapons Integration
Odyssey Systems Consulting
Eglin AFB, FL
04.2017 - 11.2018
- Directed policy and procedural development, enhancing effectiveness of B61-12 nuclear bomb DT&E program.
- Managed schedules, risk assessments, and resource allocation, ensuring alignment with Congressional mandates.
- Collaborated with stakeholders, including the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center and Sandia National Labs, to achieve program milestones.
- Led schedule realignment and resource optimization, maintaining compliance and facilitating timely program delivery.
Senior Engineering Manager
ManTech International Corporation
Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD
01.2015 - 04.2017
- Led team integrating and testing advanced weapons systems for F-35/B and F-35/C models, ensuring operational readiness and effectiveness.
- Directed test readiness reviews and technical support for over 100 successful flight test events.
- Trained military personnel on advanced hardware integration and maintenance protocols, enhancing system reliability and performance.
- Optimized schedules and resources, streamlining processes to support successful project execution.
Aviation Ordnanceman & Team Lead
United States Navy
Virginia Beach, VA
09.2002 - 12.2011
- Directed operations for $24 million in ordnance equipment, maintaining operational integrity and compliance.
- Managed maintenance, quality assurance, and readiness of weapons systems for 60+ personnel, ensuring mission capability.
- Applied Lean Six Sigma methodologies to streamline workflows, improving operational efficiency.
Education
Master of Science - Aeronautics, Logistics Management, Safety Management
true
04-2026
Bachelor of Science - Aeronautics, Logistics Management, Safety Management
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
01-2015
Skills
- Program and project management
- Project execution
- Cost and schedule management
- Site activation
- Lean Six Sigma methodology
- Process improvement
- Technical expertise
- Aerospace systems knowledge
- Strategic leadership
- Team leadership
- Stakeholder relations
- Customer engagement
- Secret clearance
Clearance
GOVERNMENT SECRET CLEARANCE
Key Qualifications And Skills
- Strategic leadership and cross-functional team management.
- Customer engagement and stakeholder relationship development.
- Program and project management expertise with a focus on cost, schedule, and technical accountability.
- Process improvement and Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
- Project execution and site activation experience.
- Strong technical and operational acumen in advanced aerospace systems.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
Job Related Training
- Aviation Ordnance Navy Difference Technology Systems School
- Armament Weapons Support Equipment Technician
- Electrical Systems Troubleshooting & Maintenance
- Hydro-mechanical Systems Maintenance
- Computer Applications: ALIS, JEDI, PDM, and JDL
Timeline
Lead Test Engineer & Project Engineering Lead
Lockheed Martin Space
01.2024 - Current
Lead Test Engineer & Team Manager
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control
11.2018 - 01.2024
Project Engineering Lead – F-35 B61-12 Weapons Integration
Odyssey Systems Consulting
04.2017 - 11.2018
Senior Engineering Manager
ManTech International Corporation
01.2015 - 04.2017
Aviation Ordnanceman & Team Lead
United States Navy
09.2002 - 12.2011
Master of Science - Aeronautics, Logistics Management, Safety Management
true
Bachelor of Science - Aeronautics, Logistics Management, Safety Management
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University