Vance Scruggs
CW4, AH-64 Apache Standardization Pilot, Aviation Mission Survivability Officer, Aviation Master Gunner
Clarksville,TN
Summary
Talented Instructor effectively facilitates learning by providing engaging, relevant instruction. Adapta teaching methods and instructional materials based on varying needs, abilities and interests of students. Proficient in crafting lesson plans with clear objectives easily communicated to students.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Battalion Standardization Pilot
1-101 AB, 101ST CAB
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Provide expert instruction and mentorship to Apache helicopter pilots, both in a classroom and in flight, focusing on flight maneuvers, tactics, and emergency procedures.
- Develop and update training curriculum and lesson plans to align with evolving operational requirements and regulatory standards.
- Conduct standardization evaluations to ensure compliance with company procedures and aviation regulations, identifying areas for improvement and providing constructive feedback.
- Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) on Apache helicopter systems, weapons employment, and tactical operations, delivering specialized training to enhance pilot proficiency and mission effectiveness.
- Collaborate with flight operations leadership to develop training schedules, allocate resources, and coordinate training events to optimize pilot training and readiness.
- Participate in flight safety reviews and accident/incident investigations, contributing insights and recommendations to enhance aviation safety and risk management.
- Completed extensive training programs to maintain currency in aircraft models, FAA regulations, safety procedures, and industry best practices
- Applied effective time management techniques to meet tight deadlines
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems
MH-47 Chinook Helicopter Pilot
U.S. Army Active Duty
01.2021 - 08.2022
- Conducted duties as MH-47G BMQ in a high op tempo flight company.
- Conducted numerous training exercises around the globe which included coordinating movement, accommodation, transportation, logistics, and training plans, which were conducted under rigorous time constraints and standards of operational security.
- Trained regularly in flight simulator to prepare for unexpected flight situations.
- Practiced and drilled for numerous wartime and peacetime emergency situations requiring rapid response.
- Used instrumentation to pilot aircraft during poor visibility.
- Operated aircraft at high-density altitudes, mountainous terrain and extremely cold flight conditions.
- Filed instrument flight plans with air traffic control, enabling proper flight coordination.
- Delivered services to customer locations within specific timeframes.
Aviation Master Gunner
7-17 CAV, 1st CAB, 1st CD
08.2015 - 07.2021
- Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) on all aspects of aerial gunnery and weapon systems employment within the aviation unit.
- Train and certify aircrew members in the operation, maintenance, and employment of aircraft-mounted weapons, ensuring proficiency and compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Develop and implement training programs and scenarios to simulate realistic combat conditions, including live-fire exercises, tactical simulations, and target engagements.
- Conduct comprehensive weapon systems evaluations and diagnostic tests to identify and rectify malfunctions or deficiencies, ensuring operational readiness and reliability.
- Collaborate with unit leadership to assess training needs, allocate resources, and prioritize training objectives to enhance overall unit readiness and effectiveness.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior gunners and aircrew members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
- Developed strong teamwork skills through close collaboration with peers during high-pressure situations
Apache Helicopter Instructor Pilot
1-82 ARB, 82nd CAB 82nd ABN DIV
03.2013 - 08.2015
- Provide expert instruction and mentorship to Apache helicopter pilots, both in the classroom and in flight, focusing on flight maneuvers, tactics, and emergency procedures.
- Develop and update training curriculum and lesson plans to align with evolving operational requirements and regulatory standards.
- Conduct standardization evaluations to ensure compliance with company procedures and aviation regulations, identifying areas for improvement and providing constructive feedback.
- Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) on Apache helicopter systems, weapons employment, and tactical operations, delivering specialized training to enhance pilot proficiency and mission effectiveness.
- Collaborate with flight operations leadership to develop training schedules, allocate resources, and coordinate training events to optimize pilot training and readiness.
- Participate in flight safety reviews and accident/incident investigations, contributing insights and recommendations to enhance aviation safety and risk management.
- Achieved high success rates among trainee pilots through personalized instruction tailored to individual learning styles
- Improved student comprehension by integrating real-world examples and practical applications into pilot training
- Developed comprehensive lesson plans for various aviation subjects, ensuring a well-rounded education for all students
Apache Helicopter Pilot
1-82 ARB, 82nd CAB, 82nd AB DIV
04.2009 - 08.2015
- Flew Apache helicopters in various operational environments, including combat zones and training exercises.
- Conducted reconnaissance, close air support, and armed escort missions in support of ground forces.
- Demonstrated proficiency in aerial gunnery, missile employment, and precision targeting.
- Maintained aircraft readiness through pre-flight inspections, maintenance checks, and troubleshooting of mechanical issues.
- Participated in joint exercises with allied forces to enhance interoperability and coordination.
- Proficient in tactical planning and execution
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Excellent communication and leadership abilities
- In-depth knowledge of Apache helicopter systems and capabilities
- Experience with mission planning software and intelligence tools.
- Ability to thrive in high-stress environments and adapt to dynamic situations.
Aviation Mission Survivability Officer
1-82 ARB 82nd CAB 82nd ABN DIV
05.2011 - 03.2013
- Lead and coordinate tactical operations for Apache helicopter combat missions, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.
- Instructed threat analysis and ASE operation, theory, and employment.
- Conduct comprehensive mission planning, including route selection, target identification, threat assessment, and contingency planning.
- Analyze intelligence reports and collaborate with intelligence officers and ensure ASE was operating and loaded with appropriate mission sets.
- Coordinate with aircrew and ground support teams to ensure seamless execution of missions, including communication of mission objectives, roles, and responsibilities.
- Utilize advanced avionics systems and tactical software to monitor airspace, detect threats, and maintain situational awareness during flight operations.
- Evaluate mission outcomes and provide debriefings to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement.
U.S. Army Drill Sergeant
1-79 FA
02.2005 - 02.2007
- Contributed to the continuous improvement of the basic training program by providing regular feedback on curriculum design based on real-world experiences from deployments or missions.
- Communicated with command centers to develop and execute tactical plans.
- Streamlined training schedules by coordinating with other instructors, optimizing resource allocation, and minimizing logistical issues.
- Assisted struggling trainees individually by identifying their weaknesses early on while developing tailored remedial plans that addressed specific needs effectively.
- Adapted teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and unique challenges faced by individual trainees.
- Was selected through rigorous testing and competition as the Battalion Drill Sergeant of the year.
- Contributed to the continuous improvement of the basic training program by providing regular feedback on curriculum design based on real-world experiences from deployments or missions
- Enhanced trainee performance by implementing rigorous physical fitness programs and demanding obstacle courses
- Trained and mentored personnel in combat operations and tactics
Field Artillery Cannon Crewmember
U.S. Army Active Duty
12.1997 - 02.2005
- Researched trends to maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in artillery and missile technology.
- Confirmed gun line safety and assisted in calibration of weapons systems.
- Coordinated and distributed training schedules and filed administrative paperwork.
- Deployed and maintained rifles, machine guns, grenades and rocket launchers in offensive and defensive operations.
- Consistently met training objectives by actively participating in drills and exercises designed to enhance unit proficiency in field artillery tactics.
- Assisted in the development of junior crewmembers through mentorship and guidance on tasks such as gunnery techniques and tactical movement procedures.
- Supported leadership decisions through effective participation in briefings, debriefings, and after-action reviews following engagements or exercises.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Excelsior College
Albany, NY 05.2001 -
Skills
Simulator training
Relationship Building
Research
Multitasking
Effective Communication
Problem-Solving
Decision-Making
Adaptability
Flight Planning and Navigation
Documentation skills
Flight Instruction Experience
Simulator training
Certification
AH-64 INSTRUCTOR PILOT
Timeline
Battalion Standardization Pilot
1-101 AB, 101ST CAB
08.2023 - 05.2024
MH-47 Chinook Helicopter Pilot
U.S. Army Active Duty
01.2021 - 08.2022
Aviation Master Gunner
7-17 CAV, 1st CAB, 1st CD
08.2015 - 07.2021
Apache Helicopter Instructor Pilot
1-82 ARB, 82nd CAB 82nd ABN DIV
03.2013 - 08.2015
AH-64 INSTRUCTOR PILOT
03-2013
Aviation Mission Survivability Officer
1-82 ARB 82nd CAB 82nd ABN DIV
05.2011 - 03.2013
Aviation Mission Survivability Officer
05-2011
Apache Helicopter Pilot
1-82 ARB, 82nd CAB, 82nd AB DIV
04.2009 - 08.2015
U.S. Army Drill Sergeant
1-79 FA
02.2005 - 02.2007
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Excelsior College
05.2001 -
Field Artillery Cannon Crewmember
U.S. Army Active Duty
12.1997 - 02.2005