Overview
Work History
Timeline
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Robert Watkins

Des Moines,IA

Overview

34
34
years of professional experience

Work History

Frontline Manager (Airworthiness)

Federal Aviation Administration, FAA
09.1996 - 05.2025
  • Supported team in daily operations, ensuring adherence to company policies and safety procedures.
  • Assisted in managing schedules, optimizing workflow efficiency across departments.
  • Collaborated with team members to resolve operational issues and improve service delivery.
  • Engaged in training sessions to enhance understanding of company systems and processes.
  • Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
  • Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
  • Developed a strong company culture focused on employee engagement, collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities.
  • Maximized performance by monitoring daily activities and mentoring team members.
  • Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees.

Director of Maintenance

Fargo Jet Center/Weather Modification Inc.
10.1994 - 09.1996
  • Oversaw maintenance operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational standards.
  • Developed preventative maintenance schedules to enhance equipment reliability and minimize downtime.
  • Implemented training programs for staff on maintenance best practices and safety protocols.
  • Analyzed operational workflows to identify areas for process improvement and increased efficiency.
  • Supervised employee performance, preventive maintenance, and safety.
  • Conducted regular audits of facilities and equipment, ensuring adherence to company policies and industry standards.
  • Designed and installed aircraft modifications relating to weather control and atmospheric research.
  • Obtained FAA certification of aircraft and modification designs.
  • Improved equipment reliability by implementing a preventive maintenance program and managing repair schedules.
  • Trained maintenance technicians to apply proper techniques and best practices and comply with safety protocols.
  • Conducted root cause analysis of recurring issues, devising long-term solutions that minimized future disruptions.

Director of Quality Assurance

Great Lakes Airlines
08.1991 - 09.1994
  • Led quality assurance initiatives to enhance product reliability and compliance with industry standards.
  • Developed and implemented quality control processes, reducing defect rates across multiple product lines.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify process improvements and streamline operations.
  • Mentored quality assurance staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
  • Authored documentation for internal use by QA personnel, setting guidelines for review activities and reporting requirements.
  • Oversaw regulatory compliance initiatives, maintaining up-to-date knowledge on relevant industry guidelines and requirements.
  • Improved airline efficiency by identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.

Timeline

Frontline Manager (Airworthiness)

Federal Aviation Administration, FAA
09.1996 - 05.2025

Director of Maintenance

Fargo Jet Center/Weather Modification Inc.
10.1994 - 09.1996

Director of Quality Assurance

Great Lakes Airlines
08.1991 - 09.1994
Robert Watkins