Melody J. Polkinghorn
Tucson,AZ
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented professional with an exceptional 18-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps, showcasing leadership excellence in roles such as Chief of Operations and Senior Training Manager. Currently advancing my skill set through pursuit of a degree in Business Management at the University of Arizona, with an expected graduation date in May 2024. Proven expertise in orchestrating and executing intricate operations, optimizing training initiatives, and maintaining equipment readiness at 100%. Adept at cultivating productive relationships with internal and external agencies and ensuring unwavering compliance with regulatory standards. Demonstrated proficiency in talent acquisition, recruitment, and leadership development during my tenure as a Professional Recruiter. Possesses a diverse skill set encompassing learning management, training, written communication, and strategic planning. Committed to leveraging this extensive leadership background and ongoing education to drive success in future management roles. Known for a dynamic and results-driven approach, ready to contribute effectively to organizational growth and excellence.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief of Operations 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps - Marine Air Control Squadron-1
Yuma, AZ
03.2020 - 12.2020
- Planned and coordinated operations for a Detachment, made up of over 100 Marines, for the employment in major operations, exercises and deployments.
- Created training opportunities that take advantage of local training areas and ensured support is properly coordinated throughout the squadron which boosted productivity within the Detachment and led to the training completion of over 50 Marines in critical career field categories and maintained career field skill proficiency throughout the Detachment.
- Planned, coordinated, and maintained liaison with external agencies such as Naval Flight Information Group and the Federal Aviation Administration for flight inspections and creating flight procedures, leading to 100% equipment readiness.
- Advised and communicated recommendations to the Detachment Officer in Charge concerning the movement of personnel and detailed mission planning for the Detachment.
Training Manager - Air Traffic Control 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps
Yuma, AZ
09.2017 - 03.2020
- Developed, implemented, and maintained the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Facility Training Program for over 70 controllers, both civilians and Marines, and ensured each controller received adequate on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and simulated training.
- Established, coordinated, and organized monthly facility training meetings to discuss student progression on each crew and resolved all ATC issues within the facility.
- Developed, coordinated, and implemented long range training plans for over 70 student controllers which led to a 50% increase in productivity within the facility.
- Managed and ensured the documentation of monthly ATC proficiency and currency requirements.
- Managed and taught the ATC Indoctrination program and syllabus to all newly assigned personnel.
- Extensively prepared the facility for the successful completion of all Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization inspections which was deemed near flawless by all inspectors.
- Senior Air Traffic Controller that served as a Radar Approach controller, maintaining close surveillance of the airport traffic area, control zone, and all aircraft movement areas. Also formulated and issued ATC clearances and control instructions coordinating all air traffic movement information with associated facilities and agencies assuring required separation between aircraft.
- Served as the Staff Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge as necessary, managing 3 separate shifts made up of both military and civilian personnel, and supervising the technical and administrative needs of over 70 Marines.
Senior Department Manager 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps
Yuma, AZ
09.2016 - 08.2017
- Managed, in conjunction with the ATC Facility Officer, a facility of 88 Marines and 34 civilians at the most complex air station in the Department of the Navy.
- Conducted supervisory, administrative and technical tasks required for all assigned military personnel, to include monthly and semi-annual performance counselings, written recommendations for awards and promotions, controller evaluation boards, and annual training requirements.
- Prepared and promulgated all military and professional matters pertaining to the ATC facility.
- Kept personnel workloads fair and balanced to achieve objectives while maintaining high job satisfaction.
- Senior advisor to the ATC Facility Officer where assistance and recommendations concerning improvement of spaces, working conditions, and welfare and morale of military personnel were made.
- Coordinated and assigned all military personnel to 1 of 3 ATC crews.
- Briefed the ATC Facility Officer on readiness, equipment status and military personnel on a monthly basis to enable sound decision making.
Marine Officer Selection Assistant 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps - Recruiting Station Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
07.2013 - 08.2016
- Prospected, screened, and interviewed qualified candidates for accession into the Marine Officer Candidate Course.
- Maintained and reconciled annual and monthly mission and recruiting data.
- Developed and implemented the annual and monthly plans for the Officer Selection Team to ensure the successful completion of all objectives and overall success.
- Established and maintained effective relationships with college and university staff and students by maintaining a physical presence on campuses and serving as a liaison for the Marine Corps.
- Exemplified positive leadership, professionalism, and motivation.
- Assisted the Officer Selection Officer in accomplishing the Officer procurement mission by conducting the training, development, and mentorship of Officer candidates which led Recruiting Station Los Angeles to receive the Commandant of the Marine Corps' Superior Achievement Award for fiscal year 2015 and 2016.
ATC Specialist - First-line Supervisor 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps - MCAS Miramar
San Diego, CA
09.2009 - 07.2013
- Formulated and issued ATC clearances and control instructions coordinating all air traffic movement information with associated facilities and agencies assuring required separation between aircraft, vehicles, and personnel operating under jurisdiction of control tower.
- Provided flight assistance to aircraft in distress and coordinated with cognizant facilities and agencies requiring assistance.
- Maintained safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic within assigned ATC areas while coordinating with terminal radar facilities on arrival sequencing and departure releases.
- Operated airport lighting systems and visual aids to navigation as required for aircraft and vehicle safety.
- Determined interval to be used between successive departures and arrivals while taking into consideration all aspects of ATC environment which may adversely affect safety of aircraft, personnel and equipment.
- Ensured Federal Aviation Administration, Naval, and Facility Directives and policies were adhered to.
- Maintained position currency and served as On-the-Job training instructor on all qualified operating positions which led to over 100 additional position qualifications for ATC facility.
- Monitored student progress through test administration and adapted learning plans to optimize progress.
- Created and implemented written and oral assessments.
- Conducted supervisory, administrative and technical tasks required for 28 Marines, which included monthly and semi-annual performance counselings.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
University Of Arizona-Eller College of Management
Tucson, AZ05.2024
Advanced Joint Leadership And Operations
Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Crs II
Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, AZ09.2020
Operational Management/ Leadership/ Problem-Solve
Advanced Leadership Course
Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, AZ09.2019
Joint Force Leadership/ Interagency Capabilities
Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Crs I
U.S. Marine Corps06.2015
Data Analytics/ Systematic Recruiting/ Sales
Basic Recruiter Course
Marine Corps Recruiting Depot San Diego, CA08.2013
Leadership/ Decision-making/ Administration
Staff NCO Career Distance Education Program
U.S. Marine CorpsATC/ Airfield Operations/ Ntnl Airspace System
Air Traffic Control School
Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL08.2009
Skills
- Leadership
- Training and Development
- Crisis Management
- Staff Management
- Department Operations
- Team Building
- Project Management
- Interpersonal Skills
- Strategic Planning
- Managing and Mentoring
- Complaint resolution
- Staffing and scheduling
- Decision Making
- Attention to Detail
- Written and Oral Communication
- Technical Competence
- Active Listener
- Team Work
- Tableau
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Power BI
Timeline
Chief of Operations 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps - Marine Air Control Squadron-1
03.2020 - 12.2020
Training Manager - Air Traffic Control 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps
09.2017 - 03.2020
Senior Department Manager 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps
09.2016 - 08.2017
Marine Officer Selection Assistant 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps - Recruiting Station Los Angeles
07.2013 - 08.2016
ATC Specialist - First-line Supervisor 40+hrs/wk
U.S. Marine Corps - MCAS Miramar
09.2009 - 07.2013
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
University Of Arizona-Eller College of Management
Advanced Joint Leadership And Operations
Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Crs II
Operational Management/ Leadership/ Problem-Solve
Advanced Leadership Course
Joint Force Leadership/ Interagency Capabilities
Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Crs I
Data Analytics/ Systematic Recruiting/ Sales
Basic Recruiter Course
Leadership/ Decision-making/ Administration
Staff NCO Career Distance Education Program
ATC/ Airfield Operations/ Ntnl Airspace System
Air Traffic Control School
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