Kaylynn Turner
Gulf Breeze,FL
Summary
Dynamic former Special Missions Aviator with over 8 years of service in the United States Air Force, excelling in mission planning and crew leadership. Proven track record in operational efficiency and critical problem-solving skills. Recognized for exceptional communication skills and mentorship, enhancing team performance and readiness in high-pressure environments.
Psychology student with a strong foundation in psychological theories and research methodologies. Skilled in data analysis, critical thinking, and effective communication. A steadfast student who has persevered through the transition from military to civilian life and motherhood, and remained dedicated to her education goals.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Special Missions Aviator
United States Air Force
09.2016 - 08.2024
CORE COMPETENCIES
• Mission Planning & Execution
• Aircrew Leadership & Training
• Aircraft Systems Operations
• Weapons Systems Maintenance & Troubleshooting
• Joint & Allied Force Coordination
• Emergency Procedures & Risk Management
• Operational Readiness & Logistics
• Program & Event Management
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Special Mission Aviator / AC-130 Lead Aerial Gunner | 2016 – 2022
• Led and supervised AC-130U and AC-130J aerial gun crews during live-fire missions, ensuring operational success and crew safety.
• Planned and coordinated over 90 missions totaling 496 flight hours, directly supporting 1,300+ Special Operations Forces personnel worldwide.
• Diagnosed and repaired in-flight weapons malfunctions, saving critical missions and maintaining combat capability.
• Trained and mentored aircrew on advanced weapons systems and defensive tactics, reinforcing combat readiness.
• Coordinated fielding and testing of new aircraft defensive systems, which validated next-generation combat capabilities.
Education
Associate of Arts -
Florida SouthWestern State College
05-2016
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
The University of Arizona Global Campus
09-2025
Skills
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Flexible and adaptable
- Dependable and responsible
- Excellent communication
- Critical thinking
- Organization and time management
- Attention to detail
- Multitasking Abilities
- Research and professional writing
- Interpersonal skills
Timeline
Special Missions Aviator
United States Air Force
09.2016 - 08.2024
Associate of Arts -
Florida SouthWestern State College
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
The University of Arizona Global Campus
Awards
2022
- NCO of the Quarter
2019
- Hurlburt Field Diamond Sharp Award for outstanding performance and continually exceeding the standard to meet the Air Force mission.
- Airman of the Quarter
2018
- Airman Professional Performer of the Year
- Airman Professional Performer of the Quarter
2017
- Spirit 03 Superior Performer Award for sustained superior performance in the AC‑130U Aerial Gunner Mission Qualification Course.
Medals
- Air Medal (with “C” device and oak leaf cluster)
- Aerial Achievement Medal
- Air Force Commendation Medal
- Air Force Achievement Medal (with oak leaf cluster)
- Meritorious Unit Award
- Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (with oak leaf cluster)
- Combat Readiness Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal (with campaign star)
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
- Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon (with bronze star (rifle & pistol)
- Air Force Longevity Service Award
- Air Force NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon
- Air Force Training Ribbon
Shadowing Experience
2023
Hurlburt Field Mental Health Clinic
- Observed 3 new patient intakes, 6 group therapy sessions, 1 Alcohol Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment (ADAPT) counseling session, and an at‑risk patient review board involving on and off‑base providers.
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