JOSHUA DRAKE
Indianapolis,IN
Summary
Results-driven engineering professional with a solid foundation in CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and quality assurance. Expertise in leading teams to achieve project milestones while maintaining high standards of safety and compliance. Demonstrated success in claim investigations, damage assessments, and collaboration with stakeholders.
Overview
1
1
Certification
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Independent Insurance Adjuster
Sedgwick
03.2023 - Current
- Investigated and evaluated property damage claims involving wind, hail, water, fire, and other loss types, ensuring accurate liability and coverage determination.
- Conducted on-site inspections, collected evidence, photographed damages, and documented all findings in compliance with carrier and Sedgwick standards.
- Interviewed policyholders, contractors, witnesses, and agents to gather critical information for accurate claim assessment and settlement.
- Prepared detailed damage assessments and repair estimates using Xactimate and Symbility software.
- Reviewed policy language to verify coverage applicability, exclusions, and limits before issuing recommendations.
- Collaborated with contractors and insureds to reach agreement on scope of repairs, cost breakdowns, and settlement amounts.
- Compiled comprehensive claim reports detailing investigation findings, cause of loss, damages, and supported settlement recommendations.
- Managed multiple claims concurrently, ensuring timely communication with clients, satisfaction, and compliance with Sedgwick service-level expectations.
- Maintained meticulous documentation and audit-ready records for all claim files.
- (Seasonal Only)
Structural Assembler — Saab T-7A Red Hawk Aft Fuselage Program
Saab
04.2025 - 11.2025
- Assembled T-7A Red Hawk aft fuselage structural components using standardized aerospace manufacturing procedures and digital work instructions
- Installed mechanical, hydraulic, and system components to 100% quality requirements in accordance with AS9100 and Saab production standards.
- Interpreted engineering drawings, specifications, and digital models to execute precise structural assembly tasks.
- Performed functional testing of assemblies and systems to verify structural integrity and correct installation.
- Selected correct hand tools and working methods to achieve high-repeatability results in an advanced manufacturing environment.
- Trained new team members and assisted in developing Saab’s advanced production system.
- Signed off completed work per specification and maintained strict compliance with ISO/AS9100 documentation
- Contributed to continuous improvement initiatives targeting safety, quality, cost, delivery, and team morale.
Component Overhaul / Sheet Metal Technician
Embraer
11.2019 - 03.2023
- Inspected aircraft engines and structural components for cracks, breaks, and leaks.
- Repaired and replaced aircraft parts due to wear, warping, or defects.
- Applied knowledge of structural design principles to perform repairs.
- Collaborated on electrical, plumbing, mechanical, hydraulic, and structural component repairs.
- Performed periodic quality assurance tests to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Conducted quality tests using advanced automation machinery.
- Performed system adjustments using manual tools, gauges, and digital test equipment.
- Directed team of mechanics in assembly and installation of aircraft components.
Gulfstream 280 Production Sheet Metal Technician
Triumph
01.2019 - 10.2019
- Guided mechanics in efficient assembly and installation of aircraft components to ensure optimal performance.
- Inspected engines and structural components for imperfections.
- Executed quality tests and identified malfunctions to uphold safety standards.
- Executed alignment testing to verify proper positioning of parts for optimal performance. and adjustments.
- Repaired and replaced worn or damaged aircraft parts to maintain aircraft integrity.
- Conducted user acceptance testing and periodic QA checks.
787 Production Assistant Sheet Metal Lead
Boeing
10.2018 - 01.2019
- Assembled and installed 787 fuselage structural components by interpreting intricate engineering drawings and electronic work instructions to identify correct work locations, parts, and tooling.
- Performed high-precision drilling of .003 tolerance through carbon fiber and titanium stack-ups to maintain structural integrity.
- Fused major fuselage sections to ensure structural integrity and alignment of components.
- Corrected blown holes and structural damage as part of elite Work Tag Team, contributing to quality assurance in fuselage assembly.
- Diagnosed software/hardware errors in Brotje robotics, enhancing operational reliability.
Industrial Engineer
Grand Industrial
08.2017 - 09.2018
- Designed and optimized workstation layouts, assembly cells, and full production line layouts using CAD tools to improve material flow and eliminate bottlenecks.
- Conducted time studies and work-measurement analysis to establish standard operating times and identify performance gaps, facilitating targeted improvements.
- Performed line balancing and workforce allocation reviews to improve flow and optimize labor and equipment utilization.
- Implemented productivity, quality, safety, and cost-reduction improvements using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize processes.
- Led Continuous Improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.
- Conducted PFMEA-based assessments, ergonomic reviews, and 3M (Muda, Muri, Mura) analysis to reduce waste and improve safety.
- Evaluated tooling, fixtures, gauges, and equipment requirements, recommending upgrades to support manufacturing improvements.
- Developed and documented manufacturing processes, including standard work, control plans, and operator instructions for new or modified production lines.
Production Engineer
Tsuda
12.2016 - 07.2017
- Coordinated design, construction, modification, and maintenance of production equipment and machinery to ensure operational effectiveness.
- Directed and coordinated requirements for new equipment designs, facility surveys, and plant modifications.
- Designed and developed systems, processes, and equipment.
- Utilized AutoCAD and SolidWorks to develop engineering documentation and enhance process workflows.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to address engineering challenges, accurately interpreting technical instructions and diagrams.
- Established standards and policies for installation, testing, operating procedures, and inspection of all equipment.
- Tested newly installed machines and equipment to ensure contract specification fulfillment and operational readiness.
- Supported EHS compliance, ensuring safe operating conditions and adherence to environmental and safety regulations.
- Prepared bid sheets, print layouts, and contracts for construction and facility acquisition projects.
Shop Lead – Aviation Sheet Metal & Systems / Backup Division Manager
Comlux
Indianapolis, IN
04.2010 - 06.2016
- Assigned and coordinated daily tasks for Sheet Metal Technicians, ensuring all work followed approved engineering data, maintenance manuals, and FAA regulations.
- Planned, laid out, fabricated, installed, assembled, and repaired internal and external aircraft structures on VIP aircraft using engineering drawings and technical manuals.
- Ensured 100% work-center completion of assigned tasks while maintaining compliance with department budget and project schedules.
- Coached employees to enhance productivity, quality, and cost efficiency through effective cross-training.
- Communicated daily schedule attainment, conformance issues, and priority (“hot”) jobs during shift start-up meetings and project reviews.
- Oversaw quality of completed work, ensuring adherence to RSQM, FAA requirements, and company certification systems.
- Processed daily documentation including task cards, timecards, turnover reports, and variance documentation.
- Enforced company policies, procedures, attendance guidelines, and safety practices for all employees and visitors.
- Assisted employee evaluations, and ensured all technicians were trained in quality systems, and continuous improvement practices.
- Modeled custom tooling and fixtures using AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
- Performed CNC-level precision machining on manual Bridgeport equipment.
- Supervised fabrication, installation, heavy machinery operation, and electrical work.
- Completed teardown/rebuild of Bridgeport head.
- Managed division budget and prepared bids to support financial planning and project execution.
- Developed strong supplier connections to enhance material procurement efficiency. and sourced certified materials.
- Conducted equipment setup, drawing review, and modeling corrections.
- Prepared shop for new 5-axis CNC Hurco mill.
- Contributed to research and development efforts for avionics circuit breaker panels. for Avionics circuit breaker panels.
- Implemented design changes to multiple sheet metal parts, drafted specifications in AutoCAD, submitted to Quality Control for approval, and updated manuals accordingly.
- Fabricated metal parts for custom aircraft interiors and avionics integration.
Production SM Lead – Boeing 787 Dreamliner Project
Global Aeronautica/Boeing
N. Charleston, SC
02.2009 - 08.2009
- Assembled and installed 787 fuselage structural components by interpreting intricate engineering drawings and electronic work instructions to identify correct work locations, parts, and tooling.
- Performed precision drilling, fastening, continuity checks, and torque verification to ensure structural integrity and compliance with Boeing’s First Pass Quality (FPQ) standards.
- Performed detailed drilling operations to maintain strict tolerances in composite and titanium stack-ups for quality assurance.
- Ensured defect-free structural work by selecting hand tools, diagnostic equipment, fasteners, and materials while adhering to Boeing quality and regulatory standards.
- Inspected completed work for Foreign Object Debris (FOD), correct installation, and compliance with Boeing Quality Management System (QMS) and FAA requirements.
- Led team in removal of improperly installed fasteners and digitally mapped replacement holes to enhance assembly accuracy.
- Integrated fuselage sections using precise fusion processes, enhancing overall aircraft assembly quality.
SM Mechanic – B-1 Project (Spar Mod/Cold Bond)
PDS/Boeing
Abilene, TX
10.2008 - 02.2009
- Performed major structural modifications and repairs on B-1B Lancer airframe sections, including skins, longerons, frames, bulkheads, and access panels.
- Executed structural repairs on B-1 Bomber, ensuring airframe integrity and compliance with specifications.
- Removed, fabricated, and installed aluminum, titanium, and high-strength alloy components in accordance with Boeing engineering drawings, T.O. 1B-1B-3, and depot-level repair standards.
- Executed precision drilling, reaming, countersinking, and fastener installation on critical load-bearing structures, ensuring concentricity and tolerance compliance.
- Conducted structural teardown and reassembly for modification packages, including wiring reroutes, system bracket changes, and new structural provisions.
- Performed damage assessment, corrosion removal, blending, and structural restoration on aging bomber components.
- Utilized jigs, fixtures, and alignment tools to ensure precise structural geometry during modification and re-skin operations.
- Interpreted complex engineering drawings, blueprints, SRMs, and modification work packages to execute high-accuracy structural tasks.
- Collaborated with engineering and QA to resolve non-conformances, rework instructions, and deviation requests.
- Ensured strict compliance with FOD control, safety protocols, PPE requirements, and confined-space procedures during bomber modification work.
Production SM Lead – Boeing 787 Dreamliner Project
Vought/Boeing
N. Charleston, SC
01.2008 - 10.2008
- Led a team of Structures Mechanics performing 787 airframe assembly, structural installation, and precision drilling using detailed electronic work instructions and complex engineering drawings.
- Coordinated installation of mechanical, structural, and systems hardware, including brackets, fasteners, panels, and composite/titanium stack-ups. (Lead-level phrasing based on Boeing’s documented mechanic duties.)
- Oversaw daily workflow, ensuring adherence to Boeing safety protocols, PPE requirements, and hazard-controlled practices around energized equipment and confined spaces to maintain safety standards.
- Ensured all structural work met Boeing quality standards, regulatory requirements, and defect-free criteria, including FOD prevention, sealant application, and surface preparation.
- Verified structural integrity through inspection, continuity testing, torque checks, and quality documentation in Boeing’s production system to ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Trained new mechanics on Boeing foundational certifications, digital work instructions, and correct installation procedures to maintain team proficiency.
- Communicated daily priorities, schedule risks, and quality issues to supervisors and cross-functional teams to facilitate production flow.
- Ensured compliance with export-controlled work requirements and Boeing’s certification standards for 787 production
- Fused fuselage sections.
- Held .003 tolerance drilling through composite/titanium stack-ups.
- Diagnosed and resolved errors in Brotje robotics systems to ensure efficient operation.
- Participated as a key member of the Work Tag Team to repair significant structural damage.
- Collaborated with engineering to assess and rectify robotics-related aircraft damage.
- Promoted to Lead by Boeing management.
Sheet Metal Heavy Repair Technician
Goodrich
Everett, WA
07.2007 - 01.2008
- Performed major repairs on Southwest Boeing 737s.
- Performed major structural repairs and heavy maintenance on commercial aircraft airframes, including skins, frames, stringers, bulkheads, and control-surface components.
- Removed damaged structural sections and executed precision re-skin operations, including drilling, reaming, countersinking, and installation of high-strength fasteners.
- Fabricated and installed aluminum, titanium, and stainless-steel components using OEM repair manuals, SRMs, and engineering drawings.
- Executed corrosion removal, blending, and structural restoration on aging airframe components, ensuring timely return to serviceable condition.
- Used jigs, fixtures, and alignment tools to maintain structural geometry during heavy-repair operations.
- Led tear-down, inspection, and rebuild of major airframe sections during heavy maintenance cycles, enhancing overall aircraft reliability.
- Applied sealants, adhesives, primers, and corrosion-preventive compounds per Goodrich/ATS and FAA standards.
- Partnered with engineering and QA to address non-conformances, streamline rework instructions, and facilitate deviation requests.
- Replaced damaged side and crown skins on aircraft fuselage to ensure structural integrity.
- Performed Wi-Fi modifications and installed winglets on aircraft to enhance passenger connectivity and fuel efficiency.
Senior Sheet Metal Mechanic
AAR
Indianapolis, IN
10.2005 - 07.2007
- Performed advanced sheet-metal operations including drilling, riveting, forming, cutting, and structural re-skin work on transport-category aircraft.
- Replaced side skins and crown skins, enhancing structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.
- Executed major repairs on United Boeing 737s, ensuring aircraft safety and operational readiness.
- Assembled aircraft structural sections from parts, subassemblies, and components, ensuring precise fit and compliance with engineering drawings and specifications.
- Interpreted complex blueprints, structural repair manuals, and engineering data to perform high-accuracy fabrication and installation tasks.
- Coordinated with QA, engineering, and inspection teams to resolve non-conformances, rework instructions, and deviation requests.
- Ensured strict adherence to FOD control, safety protocols, PPE requirements, and AAR quality standards.
- Coordinated work-center activities by demonstrating dependability, organization, and strong communication, supporting AAR’s core competencies.
- Completed all required task cards, documentation, and maintenance records accurately and on time.
Night Crew Supervisor / E-4 Corporal
United States Marine Corps VMA-223
Cherry Point, NC
09.1999 - 08.2004
- Led night crew in maintenance of 30 aircraft, ensuring operational readiness and safety.
- Achieved distinction as first E3 in Military Occupational Specialty to qualify as Collateral Duty QA Representative, enhancing quality assurance processes.
- Tested and maintained ejection seats including live ordnance handling.
- Maintained heavy structures, ECS, oxygen systems, avionics cooling, and pressurization.
- Selected among 13 Marines to maintain USMC and British Harriers in forward areas.
- Collaborated with McDonnell Douglas engineers to revise technical publications.
- Experienced in composite layups and repairs; installed canopy det cords.
- Received Presidential Unit Citation.
- Honorably discharged decorated combat veteran (OEF/OIF).
Education
Associate Degree of Applied Science -
Westwood College of Aviation
Broomfield, CO06-2005
Airframe & Powerplant License -
Westwood College of Aviation
Insurance Adjuster Licensed -
Skills
- Claim investigations
- Damage assessment
- Xactimate software
- Policy analysis
- Settlement negotiations
- Claim documentation
- Effective communication
Certification
- Fabrication Fitting
- Welding (Arc/Gas)
- Robotics (Brotje)
- Hydraulics
- 2D/3D Modeling AutoCAD
- Project Coordination
- Sheet Metal Layout
- Pipe Fitting
- Electrical Installations
- Log Reporting
- Staff Supervision
- Crew Coaching
Affiliations
- Veterans Affairs
- Wounded Warrior Project
Timeline
Structural Assembler — Saab T-7A Red Hawk Aft Fuselage Program
Saab
04.2025 - 11.2025
Independent Insurance Adjuster
Sedgwick
03.2023 - Current
Component Overhaul / Sheet Metal Technician
Embraer
11.2019 - 03.2023
Gulfstream 280 Production Sheet Metal Technician
Triumph
01.2019 - 10.2019
787 Production Assistant Sheet Metal Lead
Boeing
10.2018 - 01.2019
Industrial Engineer
Grand Industrial
08.2017 - 09.2018
Production Engineer
Tsuda
12.2016 - 07.2017
Shop Lead – Aviation Sheet Metal & Systems / Backup Division Manager
Comlux
04.2010 - 06.2016
Production SM Lead – Boeing 787 Dreamliner Project
Global Aeronautica/Boeing
02.2009 - 08.2009
SM Mechanic – B-1 Project (Spar Mod/Cold Bond)
PDS/Boeing
10.2008 - 02.2009
Production SM Lead – Boeing 787 Dreamliner Project
Vought/Boeing
01.2008 - 10.2008
Sheet Metal Heavy Repair Technician
Goodrich
07.2007 - 01.2008
Senior Sheet Metal Mechanic
AAR
10.2005 - 07.2007
Night Crew Supervisor / E-4 Corporal
United States Marine Corps VMA-223
09.1999 - 08.2004
Associate Degree of Applied Science -
Westwood College of Aviation
Airframe & Powerplant License -
Westwood College of Aviation