SAM BONHORST
Clovis,NM
Summary
Strategic operations leader with 16 years of experience optimizing logistics, strengthening organizational readiness, and leading high-performance teams across global Air Force missions. Known for elevating compliance standards, modernizing workflows, and driving measurable improvements in efficiency, safety, and mission execution. Brings a proven ability to align people, processes, and resources to meet demanding operational requirements.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Operations Manager / Section Chief — Fuels Operations
United States Air Force
Cannon AFB, NM
12.2021 - 08.2025
- Directed three fuels operations work centers supporting Special Operations missions, overseeing daily execution, resource alignment, and readiness across a $60M fleet of vehicles and facilities.
- Led end-to-end supply chain operations ensuring uninterrupted delivery of mission-critical resources in a high-tempo environment.
- Coordinated with 27 base agencies to sustain readiness of 93 aircraft valued at $5.6B.
- Built and deployed performance systems that improved team readiness and accelerated personnel development.
- Raised compliance and safety benchmarks, reducing audit findings and risk exposure.
- Strengthened operational continuity through effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.
Operations Manager / Section Chief — Fuels Information Service Center
United States Air Force
Cannon AFB, NM
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Directed quality control, data integrity, and operational readiness for fuel systems supporting global missions.
- Streamlined distribution workflows, improving throughput and reducing operational delays.
- Managed training programs, resource planning, and personnel assignments for crisis-response operations.
- Coordinated budget planning and asset documentation with accounting teams to ensure accurate financial reporting.
- Led compliance audits and implemented corrective actions to strengthen organizational performance and regulatory adherence.
Operations NCOIC — Fuels Distribution
United States Air Force
Kunsan AB, Republic of Korea
12.2017 - 12.2018
- Directed daily fuels distribution operations and risk management for a high-tempo overseas installation.
- Implemented risk mitigation strategies that reduced safety incidents and improved operational reliability.
- Conducted audits and executed corrective action plans to elevate compliance standards.
- Analyzed operational data to identify inefficiencies and drive process improvements.
- Delivered operational reporting that informed strategic decision-making and mission planning.
Education
Level IV Certified Petroleum Craftsman -
National Petroleum Management Corporation
01-2023
Associate of Arts - Logistics Management
Community College of The Air Force
08-2023
Petroleum Logistics Management Course
Sheppard AFB
01-2022
Skills
- Operations and Program Management
- Strategic Planning and Execution
- Multi-Unit Team Leadership
- Logistics and Supply Chain Oversight
- Risk Management and Compliance
- Process Optimization and Efficiency
- Performance Management and Workforce Development
- Asset, Facility, and Resource Management
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Project Management
- Inventory and Asset Management Systems
- Petroleum Logistics Systems
- Supply Chain Tools and Platforms
- Workflow and Collaboration Tools
- Compliance Documentation Systems
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams)
- Data Analysis and Reporting
Accomplishments
- Sustained full mission readiness across 44 personnel, 15 vehicles, and 58 facilities through optimized resource allocation and workflow improvements.
- Led a 9-member team managing 2,200 assets and a $2M facility, boosting readiness and reducing response times.
- Coordinated rapid-response deployments for 20 high-priority missions during a major crisis operation.
- Modernized CV-22 refueling training, certifying 40 personnel and cutting turnaround time by 50 percent.
- Key contributor to the 2023 American Petroleum Institute Award for Best Fuels Flight in the U.S. Air Force.
- Earned multiple Squadron Team of the Year and Logistics Airman of the Year recognitions through the performance of teams and subordinates under supervision.
Timeline
Operations Manager / Section Chief — Fuels Operations
United States Air Force
12.2021 - 08.2025
Operations Manager / Section Chief — Fuels Information Service Center
United States Air Force
01.2019 - 01.2022
Operations NCOIC — Fuels Distribution
United States Air Force
12.2017 - 12.2018
Petroleum Logistics Management Course
Sheppard AFB
Level IV Certified Petroleum Craftsman -
National Petroleum Management Corporation
Associate of Arts - Logistics Management
Community College of The Air Force
AWARDS AND HONORS
Individual Recognition
- Airman of the Year
- NCO of the Year
- NCO of the Quarter — Wing Level
- NCO of the Quarter (3×) — Squadron Level
Team and Leadership Recognition
- Squadron Team of the Year (6x)
- Major Command Team of the Year (2x)
- Logistics Airman of the Year (3x)
Decorations
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Air Force Commendation Medal (4×)
- Air Force Achievement Medal (2×)
- Air Force Good Conduct Medal (5×)