Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Zachariah Ragsdale

Ventura,CA

Summary

Skilled Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team Leader offering over 10 years of service in United States Navy. Career excellence managing accountability and safe handling procedures for explosives as well as classified materials. Excelled at accounting for and maintaining millions of dollars worth of equipment to ensure optimal response capability. Well-organized, productive and diligent about handling assignments with care and attention to safety protocols.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team Leader

United States Navy
10.2013 - Current
  • Streamlined inventory management processes to ensure timely resupply of critical tools and equipment.
  • Coordinated logistics support for EOD missions, including transportation, lodging, and security arrangements.
  • Successfully managed EOD Detachment Ventura Ordnance and Explosive Hazardous Waste Programs.
  • As Leading Petty Officer and AA&E manager of EODMU3 Det Ventura, EOD1 Ragsdale lead the verification and certification of the detachments Qual Cert program. As a result, Detachment Ventura passed the NAWS China Lake(CL) and Naval Base Ventura County(NBVC) Explosive Safety Inspections and four Explosive Safety Self-Assessments with zero discrepancies across all nine programs.
  • Supervised EOD support for more that 1.1 million acres of land ranges, six channel islands and 36,000 square NM of Sea Ranges for 21 RDT&E events, developed a new EOD RSP, all leading to the rapid fielding of new and upgraded weapon systems for the entire Department of Defense, NATO and allied partners.
  • Developed training programs to improve team skills and knowledge in EOD procedures.
  • Established effective communication channels within the team, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and trust.
  • Collaborated with intelligence personnel to assess potential threats and develop appropriate countermeasures.
  • Responded quickly to suspected bomb threats and evacuated buildings to search for explosive devices.
  • Supervised explosives loading operations, adhering to safety protocols and procedures.
  • Conducted team drills to facilitate smooth and efficient response times.
  • Reviewed and inspected explosives manufacturing process to establish quality control standards.
  • Ensured compliance with relevant regulations governing the handling, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials.
  • Identified and assessed potential risks related to blasting operations and implemented mitigation measures.
  • Increased team efficiency by implementing advanced EOD techniques and equipment.
  • Promoted a culture of continuous learning within the team by incorporating lessons learned from past missions into current practices.
  • Evaluated new technologies in the field of EOD for potential adoption by the team to improve operational effectiveness.
  • Led successful missions, coordinating with other military units and local authorities.
  • Developed emergency response plans as well as Standard Operating Procedures to increase preparedness, compliance and minimize potential for injury or damage.
  • Mentored junior team members, providing guidance on career development and advancement opportunities.
  • Conducted post-mission analysis, identifying areas of improvement for future operations.
  • Fostered positive relationships with local communities during overseas deployments by engaging in cultural exchange and community outreach initiatives.
  • Educated personnel on safe handling and use of explosives, avoiding injuries.
  • Supported humanitarian missions, assisting in the safe removal of unexploded ordnance from civilian areas.
  • Participated in joint exercises with international partners to strengthen interoperability among EOD teams.
  • Maintained accountability for valuable EOD equipment, ensuring proper maintenance and storage.
  • Determined suitability for blasting activities and safety of personnel and property after conducting blast site inspections.
  • Assisted leadership in preparation and use of advanced robotics.
  • Facilitated cross-training initiatives between different military and law enforcement specialties to enhance overall mission capabilities.
  • Enhanced team safety by conducting thorough risk assessments for all operations.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills in managing projects from concept to completion.
  • Exercised leadership capabilities by successfully motivating and inspiring others.
  • Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Demonstrates a high level of initiative and creativity while tackling difficult tasks.
  • Demonstrates strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
  • Monitored employee safety and coached workers on safety standards and procedures to prevent injuries.
  • Conducted safety audits to regularly assess and evaluate safety practices and procedures used in blasting operations.
  • Improved operational readiness by developing comprehensive pre-deployment checklists and inspection procedures.

Apprentice Electrician

Knights Electric Inc.
05.2011 - 09.2013
  • Handled installation of electrical components by splicing, joining, and connecting wire.
  • Worked under supervision of journeyman electrician to learn trade and develop electrical knowledge.
  • Fabricated custom and replacement parts according to specifications, using hand tools.
  • Instructed customers on proper use and safety of electrical systems and equipment.
  • Pulled wire through conduits and through holes in walls and floors.
  • Replaced and repaired lighting fixtures and electrical control and distribution equipment.
  • Contributed to energy-saving initiatives by installing energy-efficient lighting systems in homes and businesses.
  • Read and interpreted drawings to provide wiring layouts for new installations.
  • Tested electrical systems functionality and continuity of circuits using devices such as ohmmeters, voltmeters and oscilloscopes.
  • Helped complete system installations, digging trenches, and breaking up concrete.
  • Participated in after-hours emergency services, demonstrating dedication to customer satisfaction and prompt issue resolution.
  • Repaired or replaced wiring, equipment and fixtures using hand tools and power tools.
  • Troubleshot and repaired malfunctioning systems and components.
  • Assisted with electrical system upgrades, contributing to increased efficiency and sustainability in homes and businesses.
  • Followed all safety procedures and guidelines to promote safety while working on electrical systems.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Industrial Technology

Humboldt State University
Arcata, CA

Skills

  • Explosive storage, inventory and handling manager
  • Explosive Driver
  • Explosive hazardous waste manager
  • Hazardous waste manager
  • Fire Warden
  • Worksite safety
  • Specification Interpretation
  • Emergency Response Planning
  • Ordnance Identification
  • Threat Assessment
  • Improvised Explosive Device Recognition
  • Demolition Procedures

Accomplishments

  • Achieved Zero findings during 2023 NOSSA Explosive Safety Inspection for two navy installations as the sole program manager.
  • Successfully managed NAWS China Lake Explosive Hazardous waist treatment range for three years with no injuries or discrepancies.
  • Responded to and rendered safe twenty three explosive emergency situations, as Leading Petty Officer and Team leader of EOD Detachment Ventura.
  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.


Certification

  • TS/SCI Clearance-2014 to present
  • HAZWOPER Certified-2019 to present
  • Fleet Sentencing Certification-2021 to present
  • EOD Team Leader-2021 to present
  • Explosive Drivers License-2015 to present
  • Hazardous Waste Manager Certified-2021 to present
  • Fire Warden Certified-2022 to present

Timeline

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team Leader

United States Navy
10.2013 - Current

Apprentice Electrician

Knights Electric Inc.
05.2011 - 09.2013

Bachelor of Science - Industrial Technology

Humboldt State University

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Zachariah Ragsdale