Joshua Buckeye
Ridgecrest ,CA
Summary
Engineering and Avionics Technician with over 20 years of experience supporting electrical systems, avionics troubleshooting, and laboratory-based systems integration for F/A-18 and EA-18G platforms. Proven ability to work in secure, high-tempo test environments while supporting engineers, maintaining lab assets, and restoring system functionality. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology with the goal of advancing into engineering-focused technical roles.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Aerospace Engineering Technician-2
NDTI
07.2023 - Current
- Provides technical support and customer service to engineers and lab users that conduct systems integration tests for F/A-18 and EA-18G development.
- Troubleshoots F/A-18 avionic systems and restores lab simulator functionality in the event of failure or component discrepancies.
- Works on a tech team that multitasks during high operational tempo: performs technical and logistic tasks while supporting multiple lab users in test with a quality customer service attitude.
- Routinely schedules lab tests and coordinates assets per specific user requests in a secure testing environment.
- Performs preventative maintenance and repairs on wire bundles, connectors, RF cables, and fiber-optic lines for avionics and weapons integration lab equipment.
- Evaluates, specifies, orders, tests, configures, and tracks aircraft and lab assets for AWL Facilities requirements.
- Supports the Lab-Facilities Team’s Electrical Engineers with evaluation of lab system repairs, modifications, and upgrades.
Lab Electrician Technician
DCS Corporation
07.2020 - 07.2023
- Provides technical support and customer service to engineers and lab users that conduct systems integration tests for F/A-18 and EA-18G development.
- Troubleshoots F/A-18 avionic systems and restores lab simulator functionality in the event of failure or component discrepancies.
- Works on a tech team that multitasks during high operational tempo: performs technical and logistic tasks while supporting multiple lab users in test with a quality customer service attitude.
- Routinely schedules lab tests and coordinates assets per specific user requests in a secure testing environment.
- Performs preventative maintenance and repairs on wire bundles, connectors, RF cables, and fiber-optic lines for avionics and weapons integration lab equipment.
- Evaluates, specifies, orders, tests, configures, and tracks aircraft and lab assets for AWL Facilities requirements.
- Supports the Lab-Facilities Team’s Electrical Engineers with evaluation of lab system repairs, modifications, and upgrades.
Aviation Electrician Supervisor
US Navy
06.2004 - 06.2020
- Performed and supervised scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on aircraft electrical systems, including power generation and distribution, navigation, instrumentation, engine, flight control, fuel, lighting, and environmental control systems on F/A-18 A/B/C/D/E/F aircraft.
- Led and supervised teams ranging from 4 to 12 electricians, overseeing daily maintenance operations, inspections, launches, and recoveries while ensuring compliance with Naval Aviation Maintenance Program standards.
- Qualified and served as Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI), Final Checker, Low Power Turn-On inspector, and Plane Captain, ensuring aircraft airworthiness and mission readiness.
- Trained, mentored, and qualified personnel across multiple maintenance roles, contributing to workforce development, certification readiness, and operational efficiency.
- Configured and operated aircraft support and test equipment, including power carts, tow tractors, multimeters, and system calibration test sets.
- Conducted corrosion detection, prevention, and treatment to extend aircraft service life and maintain structural and electrical integrity.
- Executed daily, turnaround, preflight, and postflight inspections and serviced aircraft fuel, oil, air, hydraulic, and associated systems in high-tempo operational environments.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering Technology
ECPI University
Virginia Beach, VA05-2026
High School Diploma -
Woodruff High School
Peoria, IL05.2004
Skills
- Avionics and electrical system troubleshooting
- Wire harness fabrication and repair
- RF, fiber-optic, and connector maintenance
- Electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
- Laboratory simulators and test equipment
Technical Skills:
- Preventative maintenance and diagnostics
- Technical leadership and supervision
- Cross-functional team support
- Secure lab coordination
- High-tempo operational environments
Professional Skills:
Certification
- Electrician, Aircraft Apprenticeship certified by the Department of Labor- 13Sep2014
- Rework, Modification and Repair of Electronic Assemblies IPC Specialist certified by Blackfox Training Institute- 18Apr2025
Timeline
Aerospace Engineering Technician-2
NDTI
07.2023 - Current
Lab Electrician Technician
DCS Corporation
07.2020 - 07.2023
Aviation Electrician Supervisor
US Navy
06.2004 - 06.2020
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering Technology
ECPI University
High School Diploma -
Woodruff High School