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Posts classified under: Expert Witness Directory

RTI Group, LLC. > Expert Witness Directory
23
Oct
Date October 23, 2024

011124 Environmental Engineer



An Environmental Engineer specializing in a diversity of environmental disciplines including water, wastewater, and stormwater design, permitting, and regulatory compliance, groundwater remediation, air pollution control, solid and hazardous waste management, spill prevention and response, industrial hygiene, and safety management, with an emphasis on environmental, health, and safety regulatory compliance in the Aviation and Aerospace industry.




Academic Background

• University of Central Florida, Bachelor of Science, Environmental Engineering, and Engineering Leadership Minor, 2010
• Brevard Community College, Associate of Arts, 2002

 

Professional Experience

• RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Environmental Engineer, 2016 - present.

• Private airplane company, Environmental, Health, & Safety Engineer, March 2014 – present.

Drive continuous improvement of environmental, health, and safety programs in a 750,000 SF manufacturing facility. Track and report safety performance metrics (i.e., MIR, DART, number of injuries/near misses) to executive leadership team. In first year, reduced medical incident rate by 31% and number of injuries by 63%. Prepare and conduct all environmental, health, and safety training and lead accident investigation committee. Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws, regulations, and permits including RCRA, CERCLA, SARA, EPCRA, NPDES, Clean Air Act, and Clean Water Act. Conduct routine environmental compliance inspections (RCRA, industrial pretreatment inspections, SPCC, SWPPP, Toxic Organic Management).

Conduct monthly sampling for City of Vero Beach (COVB) wastewater permit compliance. Conduct quarterly sampling, interpret results, and prepare required reports for EPA Superfund NPL Site Compliance. Lead continued remediation efforts for EPA Superfund NPL Site. Maintain SPCC and SWPPP Program. Prepare and submit FDEP FESOP Air Permit applications. Prepare annual Air Operating Reports for FDEP FESOP Air Permit and submit COVB Wastewater Permit applications. Conduct industrial hygiene sampling (noise, Cr6, mold, asbestos), interpret results and implement engineering controls to reduce or eliminate exposure hazards. Lead hexavalent chromium elimination efforts.

Review new processes and equipment for potential impact to environmental operating permits. Responsible for all hazardous waste manifests and hazardous waste shipments. Prepare and submit annual EPCRA Section 302, 311, 312, and 313 reporting. Prepare hazardous waste biennial reports. Prepare Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) and Form R Reports for EPA. Respond to accidental discharges/releases to stormwater or wastewater. Maintain HAZWOPER certification for spill response. Prepare and update Emergency Response Plan and RCRA Contingency Plan. Acted as Incident Commander during hurricane contingency operations.

• MBV Engineering, Environmental Engineering Project Manager, August 2010 to March 2014. Florida Department of Environmental Health (FDEP) and domestic/industrial water, wastewater, and air permitting. St. Johns Water Management District (SJRWMD) Environmental Resource and NPDES permitting. Department of Health septic system permitting. Non-compliance resolution with EPA, FDEP, St. Johns Water Management District, and various local agencies. Prepare and submit required reports to local, state, and federal agencies.

Data analysis and reporting of historical sampling results to determine compliance with permits and regulations. Water and wastewater treatment plant design, improvements and rehabilitation, plant optimization, plant inspections and asset evaluations. Facility safety inspections. Pressure and storage tank inspections.

Lift station design, sanitary and force main line extensions. Author Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs), SPCC Plans, SWPPP Plans, facility operation & maintenance manuals, preventative maintenance manuals, and air annual operating reports. Preparation of Capital Improvement Plans. Paving, grading, drainage, and site plan design. Hydrologic and hydraulic modeling (ICPR and FDOT pipe sizing calculations). Stormwater system inspection, preparation of stormwater evaluation reports with recommendations.

 

• City of Cocoa Utilities Department, Engineering Intern, 2009 to 2010. Performed inspections and prepared inspection reports for City assets such as lift stations, potable & wastewater treatment plants, etc. Assisted project managers on active construction jobs for 6,500 lineal feet of 8” water main replacement on Florida State Road A1A. Reviewed and approved pay requests. Conducted research on potable water and wastewater distribution systems for a city asset assessment. Researched lift stations, pump size and manufacturers, created detailed maintenance manual to be used for utility operations and during emergency events

 

• Siemens Energy, Environmental Systems & Services, Engineering Intern, 2008 to 2009. Supported the Environmental Systems and Services department with design and application of air pollution control components for coal-powered power plants. Assisted the marketing group and product managers with proposal development, research of EPA Clean Air Act emission requirements, identifying target customers, and successful completion of 3,000-mailer marketing campaign.

 

• Dynamac Corporation (Kennedy Space Center Life Science Lab), Engineering Technologist, Multiple Temporary Positions 2002 to 2008. Responsible for monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintaining appropriate environmental conditions in hydroponic chambers. Conducted Field and Lab Sampling - Water quality sampling, gas/air sampling, and microbial sampling (IC, ICP, GC/MS, Optical Microscopy).

Registrations and Licenses

• State of Florida, Professional Engineer, Environmental (PE-80462)
• American Heart Association, First Aid, CPR, AED
• HAZWOPER 40-Hour Certification
• OSHA 10-Hour Certification #20-701368480

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Author rtiAdmin
23
Oct
Date October 23, 2024

011114 Chemical, Metallurgical, and Nuclear Engineer



Chemical, Metallurgical, and Nuclear Engineer with more than twenty years' experience. He specializes in forensic engineering accident analysis; materials and metallurgical consulting; industrial materials applications and design failures; electrical fire source determination; and archeo-materials investigations.  He is experienced in multiple engineering disciplines and potential impacts of materials, high temperature, environmental, and circumstantial conditions.

This expert has provided expert testimony as to his findings in courts of law in the United States and internationally.




Academic Background

  • Post Doctoral Research Associate in Metallurgy, Stanford University

  • Ph.D., Metallurgy, Stanford University

  • M.S., Chemical Engineering, Minor Petroleum Engineering, U.C. Berkeley

  • B.S., Chemical Engineering, U.C. Berkeley

  • B.S., Chemistry, University of San Francisco


 

Registrations

  • Registered Metallurgical Engineer. California

  • Registered Nuclear Engineer, California

  • Licensed Private Investigator, California


 

Professional Honor Organizations

  • Alpha Chi Sigma

  • Tau Beta Pi

  • Sigma Xi

  • American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), Chairman of Engineering Sciences Section, 2004-2005 and 1996-1997

  • American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS), Founders Award by ESS Section, 2005


 

Professional Experience

  • Principal Engineer, RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, Maryland, 2006-present

  • Principal Engineer, FTI Corporation, Annapolis, Maryland, 1999-2003

  • President, private consulting company,  1999 – present

  • Professor Emeritus, Department of Materials Engineering, SJSU

  • Research Engineer, U.S. Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory, San Francisco

  • Chemist, Arabian American Oil Company, Saudi Arabia


 

Professional Associations and Activities

  • Past President/Fellow, National Academy of Forensic Engineers

  • Founding Member/Past President/Secretary-Treasurer, The Society

  • of Forensic Engineers and Scientists

  • Past Chairman, American Institute of Metallurgical Engineers

  • Past Chairman, The American Academy of Forensic Sciences

  • American Nuclear Society

  • International Association of Arson Investigators

  • National Society of Professional Engineers

  • National Associate of Corrosion Engineers

  • Society of Plastics Engineers

  • Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering

  • Society of Automotive Engineers

  • Society of Wood Science and Technology

  • American Society of Metals

  • American Chemical Society

  • American Institute of Chemical Engineering

  • American Ceramic Society

  • American Welding Society

  • American Institute of Archaeology

  • The Forensic Society, England

  • The Materials Research Society


 

This expert has published professional papers; and holds patents in high temperature reprocessing of nuclear fuels, nuclear reactor, and extraction of reactive metals from their ores.

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Author rtiAdmin
23
Oct
Date October 23, 2024

011163 Aerospace, Biotechnology and Fluid Mechanics



A professor of Fluid Mechanics and a  distinguished Aerospace/Biotechnology/Fluid Mechanics Consultant with more than twenty-five years experience.  Knowledgeable in the areas of aerospace engineering, biotechnology, fluid mechanics, ballistics astronautics, computational physics, numerical science, biomechanical engineering, hydrodynamics, and numerous other sciences and technologies.

 

Has provided expert testimony as to his findings in courts of law.




Academic Background

  • Ph.D., Fluid Mechanics, The Johns Hopkins University, 1979

  • M.S., Numerical Science, The Johns Hopkins University, 1974

  • B.S., Mathematics/Physics, Rollins College, 1969


 

Awards and Honors

  • Who’s Who in America, 58th ed., 2004

  • Fellow, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 2001

  • Fellow, American Physical Society, 1994

  • Associate Fellow, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 1990

  • NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award, 1984-89

  • Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowship, 1985-86


 

Professional Experience

  • Aerospace, Biotechnology and Fluid Mechanics Consultant, RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, Maryland, 2006-present

  • Professor, Georgia Institute of Technology, The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, 1990-present; Chair, Fluid Mechanics Research Area, 1991-97

  • CNRS Professeur Invité, Université d’Aix-Marseille 2, Institut de Mécanique des Fluides, 1995

  • Professor, Arizona State University, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, 1989-90; Associate Professor, 1983-89; Assistant Professor, 1979-83

  • Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellow, Universität Karlsruhe, Institut für Strömungslehre und Strömungsmaschinen, 1985-86

  • Visiting Professor, Imperial College of Science & Technology, Department of Mathematics, 1986

  • Aerospace Engineer, U.S. Army Ballistic Research Laboratory, Terminal Ballistics Division, Shaped Charge Branch, 1978-79

  • Aerospace Engineer, Launch and Flight Division, Fluid Dynamics Research Group, 1977-78

  • Aerospace Engineer, Exterior Ballistics Laboratory, Free-Flight Aerodynamics Branch, 1972-77

  • Mathematician, Exterior Ballistics Laboratory, Firing Tables Branch, 1969-72


 

Professional Associations and Activities

  • The American Physical Society (Fellow)

  • American Society of Mechanical Engineers (Fellow)

  • American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (Associate Fellow)

  • American Association for the Advancement of Science

  • Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society

  • Pi Tau Sigma (honorary member)

  • Referee, Journal of Fluid Mechanics; The Physics of Fluids; The Physical Review; AIAA Journal; SIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics; Journal of Computational Physics; Journal of Fluids Engineering; Journal of Biomechanical Engineering; Physical Review Letters; Applied Physics Letters; International Journal of Multiphase Flow; Journal of Applied Mechanics; Biorheology; Journal of Aircraft; Journal of Crystal Growth; Fluid Dynamics Research; Chemical Engineering Science; Computers & Fluids; American Journal of Physics; Numerical Heat Transfer; Journal of Tribology; Metallurgical and Materials Transactions; European Journal of Mechanics B/Fluids; Theoretical & Computational Fluid Dynamics; International Journal of Thermal Sciences; Journal of Membrane Science

  • Reviewer, National Science Foundation; National Research Council, Army Research Office; National Aeronautics and Space Administration; US Department of Energy

  • Member, Space Station Utilization Advisory Subcommittee, NASA Advisory Council, 1995 – 1999

  • Chair, Discipline Working Group on Fluid Physics, NASA Office of Biological and Physical Research, 1997 – 2002 (Member, 1991 – 2004)

  • Member, Physical Sciences Advisory Subcommittee, NASA Office of Biological and Physical Research, 1997 – 2004

  • Member, ASME/Applied Mechanics Division Technical Committee on Mechanics of Materials Processing and Manufacturing

  • Organizing Committee, SIAM Fall Meeting, Arizona State University, Oct. 28-30, 1985

  • Organizing Committee, Fifth Taylor-Vortex Flow Working Party, Arizona State University, March 25-27, 1987

  • Member, Selection Committee, Otto Laporte Award, American Physical Society, 1989-91

  • Organizing Committee, Forty-Fourth Meeting of the Division of Fluid Dynamics, American Physical Society, Arizona State University, November, 1991

  • International Scientific Committee, Chapman Conference on Double-Diffusive Convection, Scottsdale, November, 1993

  • Co-Organizer, Symposium on Surface-Tension-Driven Flows, ASME Winter Annual Meeting, New Orleans, November, 1993

  • Chair, Organizing Committee, Forty-Seventh Meeting of the Division of Fluid Dynamics, American Physical Society, Georgia Institute of Technology, November, 1994

  • Organizing Committee, Ninth International Conference on Numerical Methods in Laminar and Turbulent Flow, Georgia Institute of Technology, July, 1995.

  • Scientific Committee, Joint Xth European and VIth Russian Symposium on Physical Sciences in Microgravity, St. Petersburg, Russia, June, 1997

  • Organizing Committee, Interfaces for the Twenty-First Century, Monterey, August, 1999

  • Member, Task Group on Institutional Arrangements for Space Station Research, Space Studies Board, National Research Council, 1999.

  • Member, Study Team, International Space Station Operations and Utilization Architecture Study, commissioned by NASA, 2000.

  • Member, On-Orbit Evaluation Board (International Space Station), NASA Johnson Space Flight Center, 2000-present

  • Organizing Committee, Conference on Selected Topics in Interfacial Phenomena in Physico-Chemical and Bio Processes (IMA Conference 2001, Giessen, Germany)

  • External Advisory Board, Space Medicine and Life Sciences Research Center, Morehouse School of Medicine, 2000-present

  • Vice Chair, Gordon Conference on Gravitational Effects in Physico-Chemical Systems, July, 2003

  • Co-Chair Minisymposium on Microgravity Flow Phenomena, International Congress on Theoretical and Applied Mechanics, Warsaw, Poland, August, 2004

  • Chair, Gordon Conference on Engineering Sciences for Space Exploration, August, 2005

  • Chair, Acrivos Dissertation Award Committee, American Physical Society, 2006


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Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011271 Senior Air Traffic Control Specialist



Summary
Senior Air Traffic Control Specialist has been involved or working in the field of Aviation for over 32 years.   His background includes not only being a pilot but working as a senior Air Traffic Control Specialist for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at various locations for the past 26 years.  During which time he also served as an Air Safety Investigator for the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), providing ATC expertise in numerous investigations of both accidents and incidents conducted by the NTSB. His flying experience includes multiple ratings and licenses including Airline Transport Pilot and Flight Instructor accumulating 2,100 hours flight time.




Teaching / Instruction
• Associate Instructor at the Transportation Safety Institute in Oklahoma City, OK. Specialize in teaching courses directed toward air traffic control and human factors, 2001 – Present.
• Guest Instructor for the Air Line Pilot’s Association (ALPA) at the ALPA Advanced Accident Investigation Course, 2001- 2009.
• Associate Instructor at the Southern California Safety Institute teaching Air Traffic Control Investigation, 2001 – Present.
• Represented NATCA at NTSB Runway Safety Forum, 2007.
• Represented NATCA at NTSB UAS Forum, 2008.

Professional Experience
• RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Senior Air Traffic Control Specialist, 2018 to present.
• Appointed FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) Aviation Safety Councilor. 1997 – Present.
• Relocated to Tampa International Airport (tower/radar approach control) in February 2015, retired in January 2018.
• Detailed to the FAA ATSAP as an analyst 2008-2010.
• Relocated to Cleveland ARTCC in July 2002 and continued employment until February 2015.
• Air Traffic Controller for EAA “Airventure” fly-in at Oshkosh, WI. 2000 – 2001.
• Graduated in February 1992 as an Air Traffic Control Specialist, relocated to Akron-Canton Regional Airport (tower/radar approach control) in March 1992 and continued employment until July 2002.
• Attended the FAA Air Traffic Academy in Oklahoma City from October 1991 until February 1992.

Professional Associations and Activities
National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
• Selected as Air Safety Investigator for the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. As an Air Safety Investigator, I have worked with the NTSB as an ATC expert on numerous accident/incident investigations, 1994.
• Appointed Chairman of NATCA’s Air Safety Investigation Committee. As Chairman, it is my responsibility to oversee the entire accident investigation program for NATCA and ensure that the investigators are up-to-date on air safety investigation training, 2001 – 2009.

International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI)
• Member of International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI), 1996 – Present.
• Two-term Chairman of ISASI Air Traffic Services Working Group (ATSWG). As Chairman, it was my duty to facilitate these international meetings promoting improved aviation safety and accident investigation approaches, 1999 – 2003.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
• Air Traffic Management and Runway Safety Representative to ICAO Asian Pacific and Middle-Eastern Regions. As representative, it was my duty to deliver safety critical information at the ICAO Safety Awareness Regional Meetings in Cairo, Egypt and Singapore, 2003.

East Central Ohio Pilot’s Association
• Member of the East Central Ohio Pilot’s Association, 1994 – Present.
• President of East Central Ohio Pilot’s Association, 2002.
• Received ECOPA Meritorious Service Award, 2003.

Honors and Awards
• Awarded “Oshkosh Rookie Controller of the Year” in 2000.
• Received FAA Administrators Safety Award 2009.
• Received FAA Administrators Transportation Safety Award 2013.

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Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011280 Senior Certified Fire Investigator



He is a retired Senior Special Agent and Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) with the United States Department of Justice, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). He has 34 years of law enforcement experience at both the local and federal level and also served as a volunteer firefighter.

He has participated in the examination and investigation of over 900 fire scenes. These scene investigations involved fires in motor vehicles, residential and commercial structures in various locations throughout the United States.

In addition, he has observed and participated in over 260 test fires for investigative, research, training and demonstration purposes. He is currently certified by the IAAI as a Certified Fire Investigator. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from George Mason University and a second bachelor’s degree in Fire Science from the University of Maryland University College.

He has testified as an expert witness in fire origin and cause in both Federal and State courts and has extensive experience investigating a wide range of fires and conducting research and testing in support of fire investigations. In addition, he has served as the lead agent in numerous arson investigations that were prosecuted at both the local and federal level.

In 1979, he began his law enforcement career with the Fairfax County Police Department as a police cadet and later attended the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy and was assigned to the Patrol Division. In December of 1987, he accepted a position as a federal criminal investigator with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and attended the Criminal Investigator School at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) as well as other specialized training courses while working for IRS.

In September 1989, he transferred to Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) as an ATF Special Agent and returned to FLETC to attend the ATF Academy. In 1993, he was assigned to the ATF Arson Group in Northern Virginia and began to specialize in fire and arson investigations. These investigations included fuel/air explosions & fires, arson fraud schemes, serial arsons, revenge-motivated arson, and arson homicides. He also participated in several bombing investigations in the Washington DC area.

In 1997, he completed the comprehensive two-year ATF Certified Fire Investigator (CFI) program and was recognized as an expert relating to fire origin and cause. From 1998-2000, he coordinated an ATF Arson Task Force in Washington, DC and worked on a daily basis with the DC Fire Department - providing fire origin and cause support as well as investigative support in arson investigations.

From 2000 to 2005, he was assigned to the ATF Fire Research Laboratory (FRL) in Beltsville, Maryland as the CFI Program Manager. While at the Fire Research Laboratory, he participated in the analysis of dozens of complex arson investigations from across the United States. Many of these cases lead to full-scale forensic fire testing at the FRL in an effort to evaluate ignition scenarios, fire progression, burn patterns and statements made by witnesses and others.

In 2005, he returned to the field and was assigned to ATF’s Baltimore Field Division where he worked as a Senior Special Agent and CFI until his retirement from ATF in January 2014. While in the Baltimore Field Division, he conducted numerous arson investigations across the state of Maryland, many of which involved arson for profit schemes in both commercial and residential properties. He worked closely with state and local investigators as well as state and federal prosecutors which resulted in numerous prosecutions.

As a collateral duty, he was also a member of ATF’s elite National Response Team (NRT) for nearly ten years and participated in the investigation of numerous large-scale fires across the United States which also included a response to the Pentagon in 2001. He also served as the Assistant Team Leader for the NRT (Northeast Team) for a period of four years.

From 2010-2012, served as the president of the Maryland Fire and Explosive Investigators Association (MFEIA) which also serves as the Maryland / DC Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI). He remains an active member of that association as the training coordinator. he has also authored documents related to fire investigations and taught at various fire investigation conferences, the ATF National Academy and the National Fire Academy.

 




Academic Background
University of Maryland University College - Adelphi, Maryland
Bachelor of Science, Fire Science, 2013

George Mason University - Fairfax, Virginia
Bachelor of Science, Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice, 1987

 

Certifications
Certified Fire Investigator (CFI)
International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)

Certified Fire Investigator (CFI)
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives
November 1997

 

Professional Experience
RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Senior Certified Fire Investigator, 2018 to present.

Managing Member / Fire Investigator, Expert's Personal Company, January 2014 - Present

Special Agent, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF) U.S. Department of Justice, September 1989 - January 2014

Criminal Investigator, Internal Revenue Service, Internal Security Division
December 1987 - September 1989

Police Officer, Fairfax County, Virginia Police Department,
March 1981 - December 1987

Police Cadet, Fairfax County, Virginia Police Department
March 1979 - March 1981

 

Specialized Experience & Assignments

Senior Special Agent / Certified Fire Investigator, ATF Baltimore Field Division
Group I – Arson & Explosives, Baltimore, Maryland, 2005 - 2014

Certified Fire Investigator Program Manager, ATF Fire Research Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, 2000 – 2005

ATF National Response Team (NRT) Member, 1999 - 2009 (Assistant Team Leader, Northeast Team 2005-2009)

Special Agent / Certified Fire Investigator, ATF, Washington Field Division
Arson Task Force, Washington, DC, 1998 – 2000

Volunteer Firefighter, Dunkirk Volunteer Fire Department
Dunkirk, Maryland, 1996 – 1998

Special Agent, ATF, Washington Field Division, Arson & Explosives Group
Falls Church, Virginia, 1993 – 1998

Volunteer Firefighter / Emergency Medical Technician, Burke Volunteer Fire Department, Fairfax County, Virginia, 1976 – 1982

Professional Organizations
Maryland Fire and Explosive Investigators Association (MFEIA)
(MD/DC Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators)
2005- Present
Current President (2017-2018) and Training Coordinator, Past President 2010- 2012

International Association of Arson Investigators, Virginia Chapter
1998 - Present (served as a member of the Board of Directors 1999-2002)

International Association of Arson Investigators, International Chapter
1998 - Present

 

Awards
Department of Treasury, Special Act or Service Award 1990, 1991, 1993, 1998, 2000

ATF Laboratory Employee of the Year (Group Award) 2004

ATF, Sustained Superior Performance 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

 

Lecturer - Instructor

Delaware Claims Association (2015)

National Fire Academy (2009, 2011, 2012)

ATF Advanced Cause & Origin/Courtroom Techniques (2005)

ATF Accelerant Detection K-9 Seminar (2000), ATF K-9 Center (2007, 2008, 2009)

California Conference of Arson Investigators (1999)

ATF National Response Team Training (1998)

International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), Maryland, Minnesota, Ohio, Virginia, Texas, Tennessee & West Virginia (1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005)

Fort Belvoir Military Police (2000, 2001)

ATF Special Agent Basic Training Program (1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017)

Arson Prosecutors Seminar, (Alexandria, Virginia 2001, Beltsville, MD 2011)

Arson Prosecutors Workshop (ATF Fire Research Laboratory, 2011, 2012)

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Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011321 Senior Mechanical Engineer and Materials Failure Analyst

Mechanical Engineer and Materials expert is a practicing forensic engineer with over 20 years of experience conducting and participating in investigations encompassing a broad range of topics under the umbrella of mechanical engineering and materials performance accidents and failures. His expertise includes determining the role that materials and mechanical components play in such multidisciplinary events as fires, explosions, product failures, transportation accidents, business interruption losses, and personal injury and loss of life incidents.

EDUCATION

University of Maryland

Ph.D.  Mechanical Engineering                                                                                               December 2002

Dissertation – “Modeling the Transition Region Fracture Behavior of Ferritic Steels”

 

M.S.  Mechanical Engineering                                                                                                      August 1999

Thesis – “Influence of Grain Size, Strain Rate and Texture on the Stress-Strain Behavior of Al-Mg Alloy 5086”

 

B.S.  Mechanical Engineering                                                                                                           May 1996

Undergraduate Research – Metallurgical assessment of creep-stress rupture behavior of Ni-Cu alloy K500

EXPERTISE

Failure Analysis

  • Aircraft Components and Systems

  • Airport Ground Transportation

  • Cars and Trucks

  • Consumer Products

  • Cranes, Hoists, and Boom Trucks

  • Electric Power Distribution Equipment

  • Fasteners, Joints, and Welds

  • Gasoline and Diesel Engines

  • Lift Trucks and Heavy Equipment

  • Oil/Gas Industry Equipment

  • Recreational Devices

  • Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Mechanical Systems (Plumbing, Piping, HVAC, Refrigeration, Sprinkler Systems)


 

Fires and Explosions



  • Appliances

  • Cars and Trucks

  • Consumer Products

  • Electric Power Distribution Equipment

  • Farm and Heavy Equipment

  • Fuel Gas Systems

  • Industrial Operations

  • Lithium Batteries

  • Oil/Gas Industry Equipment

  • Petroleum Product Storage Tanks

  • Pressure Vessels


 

Materials Analysis



  • Fatigue, Overload, and Corrosion

  • Material Composition and Alloy Identification

  • Mechanical, Physical, and Thermal Properties

  • Metals, Plastics, Glasses, Ceramics


 

 

 

ASSOCIATIONS

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Member

ASTM International, Member

Aviation Insurance Association (AIA), Member

Flight Safety Foundation, Member

National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI), Member

National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), Member Maryland Chapter

 

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATIONS, TRAINING

Professional Engineer

District of Columbia License

Virginia License

Maryland License

National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI)

Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator No. 23221-13923

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

10-hour General Industry Safety and Health No. 26-707022504

30-hour General Industry Safety and Health No. 26-907246877

Institute of Police Technology and Management (IPTM)

CDR Tool Technician Training Certification No. 12621055

EXPERIENCE

RTI Group, LLC

Senior Mechanical/Materials Failure Analyst                                                            2020 - Present

Utilized the scientific method and various engineering principles to conduct forensic investigations and technical analyses of: mechanical systems, components, and materials failures; transportation (automobile, aviation, marine), product, workplace, recreational, and industrial accidents/incidents; fires and explosions in support of insurance claim analysis and civil litigation

 

Personal Company

Mechanical/Materials Engineer                                                                                         January 2020 – Present

Utilize the scientific method and various engineering principles to conduct forensic investigations and technical analyses of: mechanical systems, components, and materials failures; transportation (automobile, aviation, marine), product, workplace, recreational, and industrial accidents/incidents; fires and explosions in support of insurance claim analysis and civil litigation

 

RTI Group, LLC

Director of Engineering and Research                                                                           January 2015 – July 2018

Director of Mechanical Engineering                                                                    September 2011 – January 2015

Mechanical/Materials Failure Analyst                                                            September 2008 – September 2011

Utilized the scientific method and various engineering principles to conduct forensic investigations and technical analyses of: mechanical systems, components, and materials failures; transportation (automobile, aviation, marine), product, workplace, recreational, and industrial accidents/incidents; fires and explosions in support of insurance claim analysis and civil litigation

 

Independent Consultant                                                                    March 2005 – September 2008

Investigated product and mechanical systems component failures in support of insurance claim analysis.

Developed a computational, predictive model of ferritic steel fracture toughness versus temperature to bridge microscale dislocation behavior with macroscale continuum stress response.

 

Structural Integrity Associates

Engineering Associate                                                                                                     May 2004 – March 2005

Supported existing projects related to the core business of detection, characterization, and mitigation of service induced damage in steel components used by the energy industry.

 

SEA Limited and FTI/SEA Consulting

Project Engineer, Mechanical                                                                                  October 2002 – January 2004

Employed the scientific method and various engineering principles in the forensic investigation of equipment and materials failures/accidents over a broad range of industries.

 

CONTINUING EDUCATION

American Welding Society

Destructive Testing, June 2021

Metallurgy II, April 2021

The Science of Nondestructive Testing, June 2021

Understanding Welding Symbols, November 2021

Welding Fundamentals I, June 2021

Welding Fundamentals II, June 2021

Continuing Education & Development, Inc.

Basic Direct Current (DC) Theory, January 2019

Grounding System Theory and Practice, January 2019

Corrosion: Overview, January 2019

Engineering Ethics Case Study: The Challenger Disaster, May 2020

Material Properties and Corrosion, May 2020

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Canvas Network

Aviation 101, February 2019

Delft University of Technology and edX

TUDF-FE01x: Forensic Engineering: Learning from Failures, February 2019

DelftX-AEASM1x: Introduction to Aerospace Structures and Materials, March 2021

International Association of Arson Investigators, Inc and CFITrainer.net

The Scientific Method for Fire and Explosion Investigation, May 2019

Introduction to Evidence, May 2019

Residential Natural Gas Systems, August 2017

Investigating Natural Gas Systems, August 2017

Explosion Dynamics, August 2017

Documenting the Event, April 2018

Motor Vehicles: The Engine and the Ignition, Electrical, and Fuel Systems, October 2018

Motor Vehicles: Transmission, Exhaust, Brake, and Accessory Systems, October 2018

Investigating Motor Vehicle Fires, October 2018.

Fire Chemistry, May 2019

Physical Evidence at the Fire Scene, May 2019

Introduction to Fire Dynamics and Modeling, May 2019

Fire Protection Systems, May 2019

J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.

Entry-Level Driver Training Module 03: Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections, June 2021

Entry-Level Driver Training Module 20: Maintenance, June 2021

Loading & Unloading: Straight Truck Series, June 2021

Vehicle Inspections: Straight Truck Series, June 2021
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Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011134 Marine Vessel Operations and Safety



This expert has over fifty years experience in the marine industry and has authored Vessel Operations and Safety Manuals for four organizations.  He has forty years of experience as Marine Surveyor, Consultant and Marine Appraiser; of which, twenty years is in operation of Inland Tow Boats, Offshore Tug Boats, including ATB’s, Lift Boats, Crew Boats, OSV’s and Passenger Vessels, up to 250 passengers, on inland and near coastal waters.

His experience extends to management of steel, aluminum, wood and FRP ship repairs.




Academic Background

  • United States Coast Guard, National Search and Rescue School

  • Marine Accident Reconstruction School


Additional Credentials and Licenses

  • National Association of Marine Surveyors – Certified Marine Surveyor, National President, 2010-2012

  • Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors – SMS/Accredited Marine Surveyor and Charter Member, VP Membership 2007-2008.

  • American Society of Appraisers USPAP Course (Renewed 2009)

  • Master of Towing Vessels, 200 Ton Power Driven Passenger Vessels, and 100 ton Sailing Vessels on Near Coastal, Inland, and Great Lakes waters, 12th issue

  • Tankerman – Grade B & ALG (Retired 10/4/01).

  •   Reviewer- Gulf Coast Fishing Vessel Safety Manual

  • CCSU, Water Pollution Control


Professional Experience

  • RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Marine – Vessel Operations and Safety Consultant, 2010 – present.

  • Private company,  Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas. Marine Surveyor and Consultant – Perform condition, value, salvage, and damage surveys on tugs, barges, OSV’s dredges, dry-docks, U.S.C.G. inspected passenger vessels, trawlers, motor yachts, and sailing vessels for underwriters, lenders and buyers.  Conduct litigation support assignments on personal injury, damage, and fraud investigations for insurers and attorneys.  Time has included occasional trips as Master, or Trip Pilot, on tugs, ATB’s, towboats, passenger vessels, and managing dry-dock and repair operations of a Corpus Christi shipyard, and managing operations of two Marine Towing companies.  1967 – Present

  • Texas parks and Wildlife Department, Austin, Texas Project Surveyor, Battleship “TEXAS” Restoration Project – Prepared ship for tow to shipyard and trained volunteer crew of line handlers and pump operators. Wrote repair specs. for majority of topside repairs including steel replacement and coating system.  Served as “Master” for historical tow.  Coordinated dry docking with shipyard dock manager. Supervised crew of marine surveyors/inspectors during major overhaul at Todd Shipyard, Galveston. 1988 – 1989

  • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Rockport, Texas Marine Supervisor Coastal Fisheries Division – Developed the design, wrote construction specifications, and served as owners’ representative during construction of modern fisheries research vessel.  Developed Safety and Operations Manual for Fisheries Division boat operators.  Originated training program for boat operators. 1987 – 1988

  • Redfish Bay Terminal/Shipyard, Aransas Pass, Texas, Vice President, General Manager -    Designed, acquired permits, supervised construction and managed a modern oil support terminal and vessel repair yard on lower Texas Coast.  Shipyard performed haul out repairs on vessels up to 170 tons and dockside repairs on larger vessels.  Supervised all bids and estimates on steel, aluminum, FRP, and wood vessels.  Developed new method of blister repair on FRP boats.  Managed a tug and crew boat company during this time, supervising all operations, maintenance, and dry-docking of vessels, also developed Safety and Operations Manuals for these vessels. 1980 – 1986

  • Otis Engineering Corp., Middle East Division, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia – Operations Manager – Supervised operations and maintenance of a six unit fleet of self-propelled Lift Boats and oil field service vessels in the Arabian Gulf.  Developed Safety and Operations Manual, instituted modernsafety program, negotiated and supervised all shipyard repairs of vessels, including drydocking, also inspected construction progress of new Lift Boats being built in Singapore.  1975 – 1979

  • Swift Ships, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas, Port Captain – Served as Master and Port Captain of vessels carrying up to 250 passengers, on Inland and Near Coastal Waters. 1971 – 1975

  • Relief Captain and Tankerman – Served on Near Coastal and Inland towing vessels while developing Dixieland Marine, Inc.  1961 – 1971.

  • Anderson Petroleum Transportation, Houston, Texas, Crew/Captain, Coastwise Tugs – Started as deckhand and became captain of coastwise tugs.  (Service interrupted by two years service in U.S. Navy.) 1953 – 1961


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Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011120 Aviation Traffic Control and Radar Expert



Aviation Traffic Control and Radar Consultant with over thirty-five years experience with the Federal Aviation Administration.  This expert was appointed by the Secretary of Transportation to develop and lead an independent safety oversight organization to oversee the United States air traffic control system.

He directed and revamped emergency operations for the FAA following September 11, 2001 and has extensive experience as an FAA spokesperson with the national media, congress, and at high-visibility public hearings.

This expert has top-secret security clearance with sensitive compartmentalized information (SCI).




Academic Background

  • University of Virginia, Darden School of Business, “Leading in a Connected World,” November 2004.

  • University of Virginia, Darden School of Business, “Mastering Visionary Leadership,” April 1993.

  • Federal Executive Institute, “Leadership for a Democratic Society,” October 1989.

  • FAA executive and managerial training: Managerial Effectiveness, 1982; Management Objectives, 1983; The Managers Course, 1984; Executive School, 1985; Executive School Phase II, 1986; Managerial and Supervisory Effectiveness, 1988; Commitment to Mastery, 1989; Congressional Testimony Workshop, 1990; Effective Mediation, 1996.

  • Air Traffic Managers Course, August 1984.

  • ATC Orientation Course, Terminal, January 1984.

  • ATC Operational Remembering and Listening, July 1983.

  • OJT Techniques for Air Traffic Control Specialists, April 1983.

  • Supervisors’ Course, May 1979.

  • Facility Instructor Training, February 1978.

  • Fundamentals of Supervision May 1976.

  • Computer Theory and Operations for Air Traffic Control, February 1974.

  • Terminal Interim Training Course, August 1971.

  • West Virginia State College, 1969.


Professional Experience

  • Consultant in aviation-related matters specializing in domestic and international air traffic standards and procedures, RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, 2006 to present.

  • Under the Secretary of Transportation, established and organized a new position within the FAA to oversee and regulate the agency’s air traffic control system. The position provides oversight over the largest and most complex air traffic system in the world (over 175,000 takeoffs and landings every day).  Oversees daily operations, audits of field facilities and employee performance, and ensures safety through reviews of national procedures and programs, 2004-2006.

  • Director of Emergency Operations for the FAA.  Following 9-11-01, was responsible for designing and building an emergency operations center to house the FAA and Transportation Security Administration (TSA).  The 24/7 operation with state-of-the-art secure and non-secure communications capabilities instantaneously links the FAA, TSA, military, security and law enforcement organizations, 2001-2004.

  • Director for the Office of Air Traffic System Effectiveness, responsible for overseeing the performance of more than 600 air traffic control facilities nationwide. Also responsible for investigating aircraft accidents and supporting the Department of Justice in litigation against the federal government.  Served as principal witness at National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) hearings on several high-profile accidents, including Korean Air 801, Egypt Air 900, and TWA 800.  Responsible for media briefings and testified before Congress on air traffic matters relating to major accidents. Helped lead the team that orchestrated the grounding (and subsequent resumption) of all flights in the United States following 9-11-01 attacks, 1990-2001.

  • Manager of the FAA’s Eastern Regions Air Traffic Division with jurisdiction over approximately 3,500 employees who were responsible for providing all air traffic control services for New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and District of Columbia, 1987-1990.

  • Various management appointments overseeing air traffic control towers in Erie, PA and Newark, NJ, 1971-1990.


 

Recognitions

  • Secretary of Transportation Medal for Meritorious Service and Sacrifice related to the terrorist attacks of 9-11-01, July 2003.

  • FAA senior executive performance awards: 2004, 2003, 1994 and 1991.

  • FAA management awards:  1987, 1986, 1985 and 1984.


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Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011145 Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics



Civil engineer specializing in structural dynamics, wind and earthquake engineering. His research interests include various aspects of structural dynamics, system identification, flow-induced vibration, earthquake engineering, and wind engineering.Working in collaboration with another professor, he established an experimental research program on aero-elasticity and aerodynamics of civil engineering structures using the low-turbulence Corrsin wind tunnel at Johns Hopkins.

This expert has collaborated on a number of bridge aerodynamics projects, including the aerodynamic analysis of the Baytown (Houston) Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge in San Francisco, the Central Bridge in Cincinnati, the Kap Shui Mun Bridge in Hong Kong, the Seohae Bridge in Korea, and the Carquinez Straits Bridge in California.  His long-standing interest and involvement in wind related problems associated with long-span bridges has led more recently to active involvement in stay vibration problems associated with cable-stayed bridges.




Academic Background

  • Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, May, 1986

  • Master of Science (Civil Engineering), California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, June, 1981

  • Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) (Hons.), The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand, May 1980


 

Professional Experience

  • Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics Consultant, RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, 2006-pesent

  • Dean, Whiting School of Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, August 2004 – present

  • Professor and Head, Dept Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, July 2002 – August 2004

  • Professor and Chairman of Civil Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, July 1999 – June 2002

  • Professor of Civil Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, July 1995-June 1999

  • Associate Professor of Civil Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, July 1991- June 1995

  • Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, January 1986-June 1991


 

Consulting Experience

Various consulting experience: 1987-2004, including stress analysis, aero-elastic analysis, static and dynamic finite element analysis, train passage analysis, wind retrofit, dynamic measurement, aerodynamic investigation, field vibration testing, wind load, cable-stayed bridge dynamic and aerodynamic concerns, communication towers, stability analysis, vibration measurements, wind loss modeling, and seismic evaluation/risk analysis, etc.

 

Awards and Fellowships

  • JHU Alumni Association Excellence in Teaching Award, 2001

  • Elected founding executive secretary, International Association for Bridge Aerodynamics, 1999-present

  • International Editor of the Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics, 1999-present

  • Erskine Fellow, University of Canterbury, 1999

  • ASCE Huber Research Prize, 1997

  • NSF Presidential Young Investigator Award, 1989

  • Maryland Young Engineer of the Year, (Maryland Engineers Week Council), 1988

  • George Owen Teaching Award (Johns Hopkins University), 1987 [Presented annually by the senior class for outstanding teaching and devotion to undergraduates.]

  • Smith and Louise Lee Memorial Fellowship (Caltech), 1980

  • Fulbright Travel Award (N.Z.), 1980

  • William J. Goodfellow Memorial Prize for Engineering (N.Z.), 1979

  • Senior Hulme Scholarship (N.Z.), 1979

  • William Georgetti Scholarship (N.Z.), 1979

  • Auckland University Annual Prize for Civil Engineering, 1979

  • Auckland University Senior Prize in Engineering, 1977, 1978, 1979

  • Robert Pond Teaching Award (JHU Whiting School of Engineering), 1991


Society Membership

  • American Society of Civil Engineers–Member

  • Dynamics Committee, Engineering Mechanics Division

  • Seismic Effects Committee, Structural Engineering Institute (Associate Editor, J. Structural Engineering, June 1993‑May, 1996; Chair, 1997-2000)

  • Dynamic Effects Technical Administrative Committee, Structural Engineering Institute Chair, 2000-2002)

  • Wind Effects Committee, Structural Division (secretary 1992-1995)

  • Aerodynamics Committee, Aerospace Division

  • American Associate for Wind Engineering (Board of directors 2002-2005)

  • National Society of Professional Engineers (Scholarship Chair, Baltimore Chapter 1990‑93, Vice President, Baltimore Chapter 1991‑93)Earthquake Engineering Research Institute

  • Sigma Xi

  • Tau Beta Pi

  • Aerospace Division Executive Committee 2002-2007

  • Board of Directors, Maryland Section, 1996-1997


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Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011157 Fire Test Technician



He is a Fire Test Technician with over 20 years of experience, specializing in testing and studies related to the performance of equipment and materials associated with fire and explosion related failures.  He is experienced in small and large scale testing, and evaluation to determine ignition sources, flame spread rate, failure modes, heat flux, temperature, heat transfer, smoke generation, and fire suppression. He is also knowledgeable in the evaluation of fire detection and suppression systems.  He has performed experimental and standard studies/testing related to product development.

He has provided expert testimony in the court of law.




Academic Background
• UC Davis, Certificate in Fire Protection Engineering, 1998
• Chabot College, Hayward, CA; AA degrees in Electronic and Computer Technology, 1983
• U.S. Navy, Millington, TN; Aviation Machinist Mate Jet (A) School, 1974
• Livermore High School, Livermore, CA; Graduated in 1973

Professional Experience
• RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Fire Test Technician, March 2016-present.

• Consultant, Livermore, CA, 1981-Present
Consulting services involving all aspects of testing (designing, coordinating, fabricating, and operations) related to fire, explosions, and equipment performance and failure.  Provides analysis of test and accident data in determining probable cause and origin of fire or explosion.  In addition, provides analysis in fire spread, damage patterns, material failure, equipment failure, and fire management systems.  Provided computer generated graphics of data (graphs, tables, etc.) and drawings for analysis, deposition, and court room presentations, and reports.
Conducted inspections to determine the cause and origin of fires involving single and multiunit dwellings, commercial and industrial building and/or complexes, gas and electrically powered vehicles, and a private substation. Performed fire inspections of domestic, commercial, and industrial electrical and/or electrical mechanical equipment and components.  Studied and tested fire related events involving aircraft, automobiles, electrical equipment, batteries, wiring, buildings, building material, and propellants.  Has worked on accidents involving fire, smoke, explosions, electrical arcing, electrical over-load, static discharge, welding, piloted ignitions, smoking materials, oxidizers, corrosion, and other nonspecific fire causes.  Conducted compliance reviews to determine if electrical equipment, buildings, and systems are in compliance with various codes and standards.He has given depositions and testimony related to the examination of evidence, experimental and testing, cause and origin of the fire, damage patterns, and equipment failure.
• Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 1984-Retired
From 1981-1984, worked as a contractor at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) employed by Butler Service Group out of Sunnyvale, CA.  Between 1984 and 2007, worked as a Department of Energy (DOE) contractor employed by the University of California and from 2007 until retirement, worked as a DOE contractor for Lawrence Livermore National Securities (LLNS).
Between 1981 and 2004 he conducted fire testing and safety analysis for various DOE programs and conducted small and large-scale fire experiments to evaluate and determine the performance of materials, fire models, energized and un-energized electrical wires and cables, building and ventilation systems, and fire management systems (fire detectors, sprinkler systems, etc.).  Also performed training of fire fighters and testing personal protection equipment. He has written Operations Procedures, Operational Safety Procedures, Facility Safety Procedures, National Environmental Protection Act documents, project proposals, test plans, and reports.
From 1997 to 2006 he supported the Yucca Mountain Program, continued to conduct fire testing, and fire hazard analysis for nuclear weapon systems and DOE waste facilities. Duties associated with the Yucca Mountain Program involved the design, fabrication, and setup of materials testing and analysis related to the corrosion of various metal alloys.  He provided similar support to the National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser program.
Between 2006 and 2010 worked for the NIF project as an inspector for electrical assemblies, wire harness, electrical cables, and clean room certifications.  He changed the NIF electrical standards for wire and cables from unique DOE specifications to industrial standards and specified electrical testing standards for cable and harness assemblies.  Also performed inspection of large optics used in the NIF beam lines.

• Ed Chovanes Ford, San Leandro, CA, 1977-1980
Worked in the new car department as a utility/installer technician receiving and preparing new cars for delivery.

• U.S. Navy VFP-63 NAS Miramar, San Diego, Ca; rating ADJ-2, 1973-1977
Duties included the fueling and de-fueling, troubleshooting, inspection, adjustment, power turn-up, and scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of jet aircraft.  He was a supervisor, training petty officer, safety petty officer, and ground turn-up NATOPS instructor.

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Author rtiAdmin
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