Krista L. Skerpan
Hamden,CT
Summary
Decorated USAF veteran and classified technical writer with cross-disciplinary expertise in aerospace systems, defense documentation, and operations management. Proven ability to lead mission-critical projects, manage multi-million-dollar tool control programs, and develop aviation-compliant manuals for international defense clients. Experienced in briefing top-tier military and command leadership on strategic aircraft operations in support of global combat missions. Recognized for precision, adaptability, and results-driven execution across military, technical, and corporate domains.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Consulting Tech Writer – Sikorsky Programs
Butler Aerospace & Defense
05.2015 - 01.2018
- Produced classified-level technical manuals for Sikorsky helicopter programs supporting Denmark, Saudi Arabia, and the Republic of China, aligning with global aviation and military standards.
- Conducted technical interviews with engineers and subject matter experts across formats to extract critical insights and operational detail.
- Applied USAF-honed discipline to streamline version control, enforce quality standards, and enhance cross-team communication.
- Directed the full-cycle development of four classified manual sections per international Sikorsky program—delivering mission-ready documentation with precision, clarity, and full compliance to U.S. and foreign military aviation standards.
- Oversaw timeline tracking, quality control, and version control to meet global regulatory standards.
Aircraft Electrical & Environmental Systems Spec.
United States Air Force
06.2003 - 01.2011
- Performed on-aircraft maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of advanced electrical and environmental systems on C-5 Galaxy aircraft, ensuring operational safety and combat readiness during state-side operations and global deployments.
- Diagnosed and resolved critical system malfunctions, including power distribution, climate control, and pressurization systems under high-pressure conditions.
- Collaborated with flightline and backshop personnel to coordinate inspections, technical order updates, and urgent maintenance tasks during OEF/OIF operations.
- Oversaw the USAF Consolidated Tool Kit (CTK) program for 26+ C-5 Galaxy aircraft—managing a mission-critical inventory valued at over $10 million with 100% accountability and zero loss incidents.
- Applied Lean and Six Sigma principles to optimize tool tracking and maintenance workflows, significantly reducing Foreign Object Damage (FOD) risks and enhancing operational readiness.
- Designed and led rotational shift schedules for 40–60+ personnel based on deployment phase, balancing mission tempo, operational needs, and Airmen well-being to sustain 24/7 aircraft readiness.
- Directed compliance inspections and internal audits while delivering Technical Order (TO) training—ensuring unit-wide adherence to USAF safety, maintenance, and readiness standards.
- Served as Unit Control Center (UCC) representative during real-world and exercise operations under Top Secret security clearance; ensured rapid personnel accountability, coordinated emergency response actions, and maintained secure communications with leadership and the EOC to support mission continuity.
- Led the Squadron Physical Training Leader (PTL) program, organizing unit-wide fitness sessions, tracking readiness compliance, and mentoring Airmen on USAF physical standards and performance improvement.
- Briefed senior Air Force leadership, including General Bruce Carlson (then Director of the NRO and Commander of Air Force Materiel Command), on C-5 operational readiness, global logistics, and mission-critical performance in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
Education
Master of Public Administration, MPA - Policy & Governance (In Progress)
05-2026
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science And Government
12-2023
- Member, National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), recognized for academic excellence, leadership development, and commitment to personal growth.
Certificate - Airman Leadership School (ALS)
08-2007
- Completed 10 semester hours applicable toward an Associate of Applied Science degree (AAS) in Aircraft Maintenance Technology.
Certificate of Technical Studies - Aircraft Maintenance Technology
12-2004
- Completed 27 semester hours in Aircraft Electrical & Environmental Systems Maintenance and Fundamentals, contributing toward an AAS in Aircraft Maintenance Technology.
Skills
- Technical Writing & Documentation (classified defense programs)
- Aerospace Systems Knowledge (Sikorsky helicopter platforms)
- Cross-Functional Collaboration (engineering, QA, SMEs)
- Interviewing & Information Extraction (in-person, video, remote)
- Regulatory Compliance (US and international aviation standards)
- Version Control & Documentation Lifecycle Management
- Risk Mitigation & Process Optimization (Lean/Six Sigma application)
- Project Coordination Across International Defense Stakeholders
- Military-Grade Attention to Detail & Technical Accuracy
- Agile Communication in High-Security Environments
- Structured Documentation Development (4-section manual authorship)
- Deadline-Driven Content Production in Mission-Critical Settings
Military Ribbons & Awards
- Iraq Campaign Medal w/ 2 Service Stars
- Air Force Expeditionary Ribbon w/ Gold Border
- Air Force Good Conduct Medal (2x)
- Outstanding Unit Ribbon (3x)
- Meritorious Unit Ribbon
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
- Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon
- NCO Professional Education (ALS) Ribbon
- Air and Space Training Ribbon
Certification
Civilian / Professional Certifications
- Google Project Management: Professional Certificate
March 2025
Credential ID: QJX5A8B2AKLZ - Covered Agile, stakeholder management, project lifecycle, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Service Innovation in the Public Sector
March 2025
Credential ID: 6NRSPG77S3MQ - Focused on redesigning services for government, nonprofits, and public agencies using innovation frameworks.
Military & USAF Training Certifications
- Accident/Mishap Reporting
- Administering Information Protection
- CPR / Self-Aid Buddy Care
- Endurance and Fatigue Management
- Human Relations
- Logistics and Resource Management
- Maintenance Resource Management
- Military Operational Security Awareness (OPSEC)
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Professional and Unprofessional Relationships
- Sexual Assault & Violence Prevention
- Supervisors’ Safety Development Program
Timeline
Consulting Tech Writer – Sikorsky Programs - Butler Aerospace & Defense
05.2015 - 01.2018
Aircraft Electrical & Environmental Systems Spec. - United States Air Force
06.2003 - 01.2011
Southern Connecticut State University - Master of Public Administration, MPA, Policy & Governance (In Progress)
Southern Connecticut State University - Bachelor of Arts, Political Science And Government
Community College of The Air Force - Certificate, Airman Leadership School (ALS)
Community College of The Air Force - Certificate of Technical Studies, Aircraft Maintenance Technology
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