MICHAEL LAWYER
Livermore,CA
Summary
With over a decade of experience as a mechanic, specifically, in the aerospace industry, I have developed a strong understanding of the technician role, including robust troubleshooting skills, exceptional interpersonal abilities, and vast knowledge of machining and fabrication. After obtaining my commercial aircraft maintenance certification from Crimson Technical College in October 2011, I have contributed to leading aerospace companies, where I have refined my technical and problem-solving expertise. I am dedicated to leveraging my skills and collaborative approach to drive success within a high-performing team.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Engineering Technician
Benchmark Space Systems
11.2024 - Current
- Build, integrate, and test advanced spacecraft propulsion systems, supporting rapid development from prototype through hot-fire testing.
- Conduct hands-on research and development of green propellants aimed at replacing traditional toxic propulsion chemicals with safer, more environmentally responsible alternatives.
- Lead development machinist, using manual mills, lathes, and TIG welding to manufacture precision components, fixtures, tooling, and rapid prototypes for propulsion hardware.
- Collaborate closely with engineers to iterate rapidly on designs, troubleshoot hardware, and translate engineering concepts into functional test articles.
- Support an aggressive hot-fire test cadence, preparing propulsion systems and test hardware for multiple hot-fire tests per week while maintaining a strong focus on safety, repeatability, and hardware reliability.
- Perform assembly, integration, inspection, testing, and troubleshooting of propulsion hardware in a fast-paced R&D environment.
Engineering Technician
Vacco Industries
01.2017 - Current
- Conduct environmental testing and maintenance for aerospace systems, including thermal vacuum, vibration and shock testing.
- Assembly, test, and overhaul of motors and valves used in spacecraft and satellite operations.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to develop and refine testing protocols, analyze test data and implement improvements based on test results.
- Troubleshoot, maintain and repair of facility equipment including electrical and hydraulic test equipment and controllers in accordance with manufacture specs and blueprints.
- (626)443-7121
Production/Repair
EATON aerospace
01.2015 - 07.2017
- Conduct maintenance, repair, and testing of high pressure hydraulic systems and electrical components for aerospace applications, including actuators, motors, pumps, and valves.
- Perform troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures to identify and rectify hydraulic system malfunctions and inefficiencies.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to analyze system performance, implement improvements, and ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, system modifications, and parts usage for quality control and regulatory compliance.
- (818)409-0200
Integration
General Atomics
08.2013 - 08.2014
- Integration of drone systems including the assembly, testing, and calibration of hardware and software components.
- Structural repairs and retrofitting of composite airframe including carbon fiber and kevlar.
- Conduct pre-flight checks, system diagnostics and performance evaluations for various drone models.
- Remove and replace turboprop engines and auxiliary power units
- Maintain and preform preventative maintenance on facility.
Education
No Degree - Welding Certification
Welding Certification
Las Positas02.2027
Composite Repair - undefined
Abaris Composite Training
01.2013
Aviation Maintenance Technology - undefined
Crimson Technical College
10.2011
Skills
- Experienced machinist
- TIG/MIG proficient
- Communication
- Problem solving
- Mechanical aptitude
- Adaptable
- Troubleshooting
Accomplishments
Building, qualifying and delivering hardware that is used on ARTIMIS SLS rocket . Contributed to the successful deployment and operation of key systems on the ISS, enhancing the functionality and reliability of the station’s infrastructure. Played a pivotal role in ensuring the systems met performance standards and supported ongoing mission objectives.
Timeline
Engineering Technician
Benchmark Space Systems
11.2024 - Current
Engineering Technician
Vacco Industries
01.2017 - Current
Production/Repair
EATON aerospace
01.2015 - 07.2017
Integration
General Atomics
08.2013 - 08.2014
Aviation Maintenance Technology - undefined
Crimson Technical College
Composite Repair - undefined
Abaris Composite Training
No Degree - Welding Certification
Welding Certification