JOSEPH KARGES
Easley,SC
Summary
Quality-focused professional with hands-on experience in aerospace inspection, AS9100 compliance, and production support, transitioning into a Quality Engineer role. Proven ability to drive process improvements, perform root cause analysis, and ensure product conformity through precise inspection and data-driven decision-making. Experienced in collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers to improve quality outcomes, reduce defects, and support audit readiness. Strong background in ERP systems, precision measurement, and continuous improvement within high-performance manufacturing environments.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Inspection Specialist
PMW Aero
11.2025 - Current
- Performed detailed inspections on aerospace components to ensure compliance with AS9100 and customer specifications
- Partnered with third-party inspectors and suppliers to verify product conformity and resolve quality issues
- Conducted root cause analysis (RCA) on nonconforming parts and supported CAPA implementation
- Utilized precision measurement tools (calipers, gauges) to validate product quality and tolerances
- Documented inspection results and generated reports to support quality tracking and audits
- Trained team members on inspection techniques, quality standards, and compliance requirements
- Contributed to continuous improvement initiatives to reduce defects and improve inspection efficiency
- Supported development and review of FMEAs to identify potential failure modes and improve product reliability
- Contributed in maintaining and updating control plans to ensure process consistency and product quality
- Collaborated with engineering and production teams to address quality issues and implement process improvements
Production Support Coordinator /Shipping and Receiving Coordinator
PMW AERO
06.2023 - 11.2025
- Supported AS9100 quality system compliance across shipping, receiving, and production processes
- Ensured incoming materials met quality standards through inspection and verification processes
- Collaborated with engineering and production teams to resolve quality issues and improve workflows
- Assisted in audit preparation and participated in internal and external quality audits
- Maintained accurate documentation and traceability of parts in compliance with aerospace standards
- Trained employees on quality procedures and AS9100 requirements
- Identified process inefficiencies and contributed to process improvements to enhance quality and delivery performance
- Contributed to top influential aerospace companies such as Boeing, Amazon, Blue Origin, and SpaceX.
CNC Machinist
KMT WATERJET
01.2018 - 01.2023
- Set up and operated 5-axis Mazak CNC lathes to manufacture precision components within tight tolerances
- Interpreted engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T requirements to ensure accurate part production
- Performed in-process inspections using precision measurement tools to maintain quality standards
- Identified and corrected machining issues to reduce defects and improve process reliability
- Collaborated with supervisors and engineering teams to optimize machining processes and improve efficiency
- Trained and mentored new operators on machine setup, operation, and quality expectations
- Contributed to continuous improvement efforts to reduce scrap and enhance overall production quality
Professional Photographer
Pensacola Christian College
Pensacola, FL
08.2020 - 05.2022
- Managed daily projects for the production department
- Created and conducted photo sessions with clients
- Interacted with students and faculty to ensure timely project completion
Education
Graphic Design / Business Management - Principles of Management, Managerial Cost Accounting, E-business, Management, Business Statistics, Principles of Marketing, Business Law, Personal Selling
Pensacola Christian College
1 2020
Skills
- Cross-functional Collaboration (Engineering, Production, Suppliers)
- Documentation & Quality Reporting
- Training & Standard Work Development
- AS9100 / Quality Management Systems (QMS)
- In-Process & Final Inspection (CMM & conventional tools)
- Root Cause Analysis (RCA) & Corrective/Preventive Actions (CAPA)
- GD&T & Engineering Drawing Interpretation
- Process Improvement & Engineering Change Orders
- Precision Measurement (Calipers, Gauges, Height Gauges, Inspection Tools)
- Nonconformance Reporting (NCR) & Material Review Board (MRB) support
- Continuous Improvement (Lean / Six Sigma principles)
- FMEA, Control Plans & Document Control
- Cross-functional Collaboration (Quality, Engineering, Manufacturing)
- ERP Systems (Pros-Shop)
Additional Information
- Proficient with ERP systems (Pro-Shop)
- Managed a campus-wide event for over 4,500 attendees, demonstrating strong organizational and leadership skills. Proven ability to work effectively in teams, quickly adapt to new challenges, and leverage technological proficiently to achieve successful outcomes.
- Quick learner
- Technologically inclined
- Driven to work hard
Timeline
Inspection Specialist
PMW Aero
11.2025 - Current
Production Support Coordinator /Shipping and Receiving Coordinator
PMW AERO
06.2023 - 11.2025
Professional Photographer
Pensacola Christian College
08.2020 - 05.2022
CNC Machinist
KMT WATERJET
01.2018 - 01.2023
Graphic Design / Business Management - Principles of Management, Managerial Cost Accounting, E-business, Management, Business Statistics, Principles of Marketing, Business Law, Personal Selling
Pensacola Christian College