Mason Merchand

Line (Plane Captain)

• Daily/turnaround inspections
• Launch/recover/final check aircraft.
• Performed aircraft washes and tow moves.
• Conducted fueling and collected fuel samples for F/A18 E/F.
• Engine/AMAD oil servicing.
• Cockpit safety.
• Use of IETMS/FAME tech pubs.

Ordnance (QASO/Team Lead)

• Inspect/maintain/troubleshoot electronic and mechanical ordnance systems.
• Verify and inspect ordnance systems/equipment before flight.
• Quality safety observer of loading/arming evolutions for proper and safe installation.
• Read/interpret technical publications/manuals.
• Suspension and release/control maintenance & troubleshooting.
• Inspect, remove/install, and clean 20MM gun system.

Quality Production Specialist

• Broken/Missing tool reports.
• Nonconformance and SOOT/OOT processes/reports.
• Weekly review of aircraft discrepancy book and prior to FCF flights.
• Toolbox/program EPES audits
• RSPS (rapid systematic problem solving)
• Panel closure and panel inspection via cross hatch method.
• Torque/component install verification in accordance with tech data.
• Witnessed engine run-ups, launches and recoveries to verify compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Secondary program manager for Plane Captain program.

Line (Plane Captain)

• Launch/recover/final check aircraft.
• Moving/towing aircraft.
• Daily/turnaround inspections.
• Fuel/fuel sample F/A-18 E/F.
• Engine/AMAD oil servicing.

Ordnance

• Maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of electronic/mechanical ordnance systems.
• Loaded and downloaded armament and equipment to ensure operational readiness.
• Arm/de-arm F/A18E/F.
• Release and control checks.
• Managed ready service locker inventory to maintain supply accuracy and availability.
• Drop, install, and clean 20MM gun system.
• Read/interpret technical publications/manuals.
• Obtained secret clearance for access to classified materials..

Avionics

• Troubleshooting comms, GPS, and radar.
• Reading wires.
• Removal & replacement of radar components.

• Martial aircraft.
• Fueling a multitude of aircraft (Jet A +/- and 100LL).
• Assisted passengers and pilots with luggage to ensure smooth boarding and departures.
• Daily inspection of ground service equipment.
• Maintain safety, structure, and coordination of ramp and aircraft operation area.
• Wing/tail walking of aircraft during tow operations.
• Assist passengers/pilots with luggage.
• Attend to pilot/passenger requests and concerns.
• Escorting contractors, pilots, passengers around airport operating areas.

• Detailed and concise cleaning of gym equipment, pool, and sauna.
• Achieved a safe, clean exercising environment by obtaining health and safety standards of the gym.
• Established professional, positive relations with gym members attending their concerns, comments, and insights.
• Attained satisfactory working relations alongside co-workers with great communication and teamwork.

• Managed and maintained 17 F/A18 Super Hornet aircraft worth more than $1.3 billion.
• Maintained F/A18 weapons and accessories.
• Managed receipt, stowage, and loading/downloading of squadron munitions.
• Detect problems with ordnance through regular inspections.
• Pre/post-flight safety checks and daily inspections of F/A18.
• Moved and towed aircraft to designated locations for maintenance and readiness.
• Refueling/hot refueling of F/A18.
• Move/tow aircraft.
• Washing of aircraft airframe and landing gear.
• Conducted inventory of uninstalled gear valued at $1.2 million to ensure accurate tracking and availability.
• Coordinated receipt, stowage, and loading/downloading of squadron munitions to maintain efficient supply chain operations.

• Determined cleaning needs by assessing the state of floors and carpets needing cleaning.
• Met sanitation standards through skilled use of disinfection equipment.
• Achieved work order goals by working smoothly with team members.
• Built positive relationships with customers and communicated professionally during jobs.
• Kept building secure during off-hours by consistently locking exits.

• Use of weapons loading equipment.
• Stores management system.

• Attendance throughout high school over 98%
• National Honors Society.
• Attended honors and dual college accredited courses.
• Attended Ivy Tech Community College as a part-time student during Jr. and Sr. years of high school; automation & robotics.