Loading...

Posts classified under: Expert Witness Directory

RTI Group, LLC. > Expert Witness Directory
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011244 Construction Processes and Materials



Construction processes and materials expert with over thirty years of experience in structural materials forensic work, materials testing, engineering design, project management, and construction management.  During the early stages of his career he performed basic engineering duties prior to specializing in diagnostic and forensic work.  His responsibilities included structural engineering design and construction of single-family subdivisions, small multi-family complexes, and evaluation of building and other structures for their structural components and the materials that make up of those components.

He has conducted numerous investigations regarding the structural aspects of buildings, including shear walls, framing, concrete failures (cracking, spalling, sulfate attack), and regarding the architectural aspects (envelopes) of buildings including curtain walls, waterproofing (building paper, sealers, sealants, membranes) and veneer (EIFS, GFRC, glazing, stucco, thin brick, tile, and wood siding).  Other materials tested and consultations include vapor moisture transmission through concrete floors, drainage and waterproofing of below grade concrete walls, shotcrete construction, gypsum concrete underlayment, asphalt, ABS pipe coefficient of friction of floors and window/storefronts for water penetration.

His current work emphasizes the evaluation, investigation, analysis and recommendations for remedial work of existing buildings and structures.  He provides support as an expert witness to attorneys in construction defects and personal injury litigation and has testified on structural aspects of construction, on performance of materials and workmanship, on compliance with codes and industry standards, and on slip and fall cases.

He has testified extensively on the standard of care in the construction industry.




Academic Background

  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Al-Hikma University, Baghdad, 1970

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering, King’s College, University of London, 1975

  • Masters of Business Administration (Finance), Armstrong College, Berkeley, 1983


Professional Experience

  • Construction Processes and Materials expert, RTI Annapolis MD

  • Applied Materials & Engineering, Inc., Oakland, CA, 1988 to Present

  • Associate Engineer, Testing Engineers, Inc., Oakland, CA, 1984

  • Manager/Engineer, Tana Development Corporation, Martinez, CA, 1982

  • Research Engineer (Part-time), Building Research Center, Baghdad, 1977-1978

  • Technical Director – Tajirians Co. WLL, Baghdad, 1975

  • Research Engineer – Ph.D. Program, University of London, 1972

  • Design Engineer – Tajirians Co. WLL, Baghdad, 1970


Licenses

  • Structural Engineer, State of California, No. S4049, 1996

  • Civil & Structural Engineer, State of Nevada, No. 13228, 1998

  • Professional Engineer (Civil), State of California, No. C35535, 1982

  • General Contractor, State of California, No. 503035, 1986


Professional Affiliations

  • Structural Engineers Association of Northern California

  • American Society of Civil Engineers

  • American Concrete Institute

  • Western Construction Consultants Group


Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011204 Oil Spill Prevention



Oil spill prevention specialist who performs hazard assessments upon all oceangoing ships entering the waters of California.  He acts as state liaison to the Port of Hueneme and the San Francisco Harbor Safety Committee and is a salvage expert for marine incident responses.  He also tracks ship Loss of Propulsion incidents due to fuel switching for the State of California.  He is appointed to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Safety Advisory Council, and represents state agencies with vessel and port safety.

Additional areas of expertise include navigation and navigation equipment, COLREGS, stability, lifesaving equipment, International Ship Management, International Ship and Port Security, marine firefighting, salvage, emergency towing, ship container stowage, bunkering operations, and dangerous and hazardous material container stowage.




Academic Background

  • California Maritime Academy, Vallejo, CA, B.S. Nautical Science, 1975


Additional Academic Activities / Honors

  • United States Coast Guard License Third Mate, Any Tonnage Upon Oceans; Issue Number 1.


Professional Experience

  • RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Oil Spill Prevention Consultant, July 2014 to present

  • California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Office of Spill Prevention and Response, Oil Spill Prevention Specialist, Sacramento, CA, May 2010 to present

  • Independent Contractor, California, Auditor – International Safe Management Internal Audits, December 2009 to April 2010

  • APL Maritime Ltd., Bethesda, MD, Ship Master, July 2000 to November 2009

  • American President Lines, Oakland, CA, Chief Mate, Second Mate, Third Mate, 1978 to 2000


Professional Associations and Activities

  • Council of American Master Mariners

  • United States Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II – “SS Lane Victory” Assisted in putting together Vessel Security Plan and Facility Security Plan

  • San Francisco Coast Guard – Maritime Transportation System Recovery Unit

  • USCG – Navigation Safety Advisory Council (NAVSAC)

  • Nautical Institute – Associate Fellow


Registrations and Licenses

  • United States Coast Guard Licensed Master, Any Tonnage Upon Oceans; Issue 10

  • United States Coast Guard Qualified Assessor for assessment of competence of candidates for STCW endorsements – effective September 1, 2014

  • First Class Pilot of Steam or Motor Vessels of Any Gross Tons Upon the Waters of Los Angeles and Long Beach including San Pedro Bay and Approaches

  • First Class Pilot of Steam or Motor Vessels of Any Gross Tons Upon the Waters of Port Hueneme and Approaches

  • Radar Observer (Unlimited)

  • American Bureau of Shipping: Certified ISM Code Internal Auditor

  • Hazwoper 24 Hour

  • Incident Command System (ICS)-100, 200, 300 and 400

  • Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies Certificates: Vessel Security Officer,  Bridge Resource Management, Contingency Planning Workshop, Advanced Firefighting, Media Response Workshop, Vessel Personnel Management and Shipboard Medical among others

  • FCC licensed: GMDSS Radio Operator

  • Military Sealift Command Certificates: Damage Control, Chemical Biological and Radiological Defense, Force Protection Officer, Small Arms

  • Maritime Administration Certificate: Master Mariners Readiness Course

  • Security Clearance: Inactive

  • Transport Worker Identification Card (TWIC): Holder


Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011201 Human Resources Management



Over twelve years of experience in Human Resources Management, working for a variety of organizations to include financial institutions; a mechanical contractor and software companies.

During her career she has independently created two Human Resources departments. This included an assessment and later development of policies and procedures for the complete employee life cycle from recruitment to termination as well as internal company policies, procedures and practices. She has served as mediator during employee conflicts; performed internal investigations; counseled employees and managers.

She has extensive knowledge in employee relations and conflict resolution throughout her tenure. She has outlined and advised on the correction of behavior and conduct that is prohibited and not to be tolerated in the workplace, such as theft; workplace violence; falsification of documents; insubordination; failure to observe work schedules; and unlawful harassment or discrimination. She has developed and trained managers on the use of Performance Improvement Plans (PIP) to mitigate risk to the company and display of respect for the employees. She has worked in organizations comprised of employees with various skill levels. Each posing their own unique personnel challenges.




Academic Background

  • Bachelors of Science, Human Resource Management, University of Maryland, 1998.


Certificates Earned

  • Facility Security Officer (FSO)

  • Human Resources and The Law

  • Managing Projects and Priorities

  • OSHA Compliance and Workplace Safety

  • Payroll Law


Courses and Webinars Attended

  • Corporate Branding and Recruitment

  • Energize and Engage

  • Keeping Up with Recordkeeping Requirements

  • Keys to Effective Employee Orientation

  • Managers Behaving Badly Identify Theft

  • The Business Grammar Crash Course


Professional Experience

  • RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Human Resource Consultant, 2013 to present

  • Bay Bridge Decision Technologies, Inc., Annapolis, MD, Human Resources and Recruiting Manager,  August 2011 to August 2012.  Align the goals and objectives of the Human Resource Department with the strategic directions of the organization. Identify new and updated legal requirements and government reporting regulations affecting human resource functions and ensure policies, procedures, and reporting are in compliance.  Work with management to identify departmental staffing needs, place ads, conduct phone and in-person interviews with candidates and on-board new hires. Conduct labor market and industry compensation research and work with management to analyze wage and salary data. Maintain employee files. Administer benefits programs; manage annual open enrollment; act as a liaison between internal personnel and insurance broker.  Administer Performance Management Program. Act as an advocate for the employees and a business partner to the organization. Process semi-monthly payroll. Administer the immigration process.

  • ProObject, Inc., Hanover, MD, Human Resource Generalist, December 2009 to August 2011. Administer employee benefits plans. Created and executed new employee on-boarding process. Conducted employee exit process. Conducted employee self-assessment program.  Developed Affirmative Action Program. Prepared materials for Executive Meetings.

  • Welch and Rushe, Inc., Upper Marlboro, MD, Manager of Human Resources, October 2007 to March 2009.

  • The Washington Savings Bank, Bowie, MD, February 2001 to October 2007.


Government Clearance

  • Top Secret – Obtained Oct 2008


Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011122 Transportation Accident Law and Government Investigations



Transportation Accident Law and Government Investigations Consultant who helps manage clients’ participation in various types of government investigations, regulatory enforcement proceedings, product safety recalls, and related litigation.  Multi-faceted legal and public affairs services encompass every stage of government decision-making from congressional/regulatory affairs to strategy development and civil/appellate litigation.

He has worked for technology developers, manufacturers of transportation safety and security equipment, defense and homeland security contractors, transportation service providers and major insurance organizations. Manages clients’ participation in various types of government investigations, regulatory enforcement proceedings, product safety recalls and related litigation.  He also serves as outside general counsel to the Dangerous Good Advisory Council, the world’s premier authority on the safe transportation of hazardous materials. Deals regularly with the Department of Transportation (particularly the Federal Aviation and Traffic Safety Administrations), the National Transportation Safety Board and other federal safety and investigative departments. Many years of experience in civil litigation, trial work and adversarial administrative proceedings, as well as in high-profile appellate litigation.  He has represented clients before the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in important administrative law cases.  Co-author of the U.S. Supreme Court brief for the independent insurers when they won a unanimous decision reinstating the safety standard requiring airbags in automobiles. This expert also supports clients and their litigation counsel by managing participation in government investigations, especially those involving aircraft and other transportation accidents; and has successfully obtained crucial information from government sources that failed to surface in the traditional civil discovery process. He has managed automotive manufacturers’ safety recalls and provided advice concerning compliance with laws and regulations enforced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and other consumer protection agencies.




Academic Background

  • University of Virginia School of Law, J.D., 1979.  Associate Editor, Virginia Law Weekly; Member, Moot Court Board and quarterfinalist, Lile Moot Court Competition.

  • Princeton University, Woodrow Wilson School of Public & International Affairs, A.B., cum laude, 1976.


 

Professional Experience

  • Transportation Accident Law and Government Investigations Consultant, RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, 2006-present

  • Chairman/CEO, private company, Washington, DC, 2000-present

  • Partner, Manatt Phelps & Phillips, LLP, Washington, DC, 1999-2000

  • Partner, Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, Washington, DC, 1993-1999

  • Vice President and head of Technology, Telecommunications & Transportation Consulting Group, Gray & Company/Hill and Knowlton Public Affairs Worldwide Co./Murphy & Demory, Ltd., Washington, DC, 1986-1992

  • Associate, Sidley & Austin, Washington, DC, 1984-1986

  • Legislative Counsel, U.S. Senator John C. Danforth, 1981-1983

  • Associate, Blackwell Sanders, Kansas City, MO 1979-1981


 

Bar Admissions

  • United States Supreme Court

  • United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit

  • United States District Court for the District of Columbia

  • District of Columbia Court of Appeals

  • Virginia Supreme Court

  • Missouri Supreme Court

  • United States District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri

  • United States Courts of Appeals for the Fourth, Sixth and Eighth Circuits


Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011263 Senior Civil and Structural Engineer



 Senior Civil and Structural Engineer with over thirty-six years experience in the construction industry with specialization in construction project management, construction cost estimating, and investigation of civil and structural engineering design, defects, and failures.

He provides consulting on structural engineering issues with regard to building damage, repair, and collapse.  He has also investigated numerous cases involving origin, cause, and remediation of water infiltration and damage, including water entrance into building structures and site drainage issues.

He has provided professional construction consulting with regard to construction cost estimating.  He is a registered Certified Cost Engineer (C.C.E.) and has been an expert witness on construction claim issues.




Academic Background:
• University of Maryland, Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering

Professional Experience:
• Senior Civil and Structural Engineer Consultant – RTI Group LLC, Stevensville, MD,  2017 - present

• President, Private company, Upper Marlboro, MD 1985 – Present.

• Senior Civil Engineer – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Washington, D.C. 1981 – 2014.

• Senior Cost Engineer – Moffitt and Nichols, Baltimore, MD 2014 – 2017.

Professional Associations and Activities:

• Licensed Professional Engineer – MD, VA, DC, PA.

• Certified Cost Engineer with the DoD TriService.

• Past registration as an AVS (Associated Value Specialist) with SAVE International.

• Member of ASPE (American Society of Professional Engineers).

• Member of ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers).

• Past Construction Arbitrator with the American Arbitration Association.

• Instructor for the Army Corps of Engineers Prospect Training Classes.

Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011292 Crane and Heavy Equipment



Summary
He has over 25 years of experience in crane safety and is the owner of a leading crane inspection company in the northeast region. He currently inspects over 1,800 devices per year, including makes such as derricks, suspended personnel platforms, gantry, all-terrain, tower, truck, and marine cranes. He has earned the approval of companies such as Dimeo, Gilbane, Kiewit, Lend-lease, Skanska, Suffolk, Tappan Zee Constructors, LLC (TZC) and Turner. His prior experience with lift equipment came from working, owning, and operating a heavy equipment distribution business that exported equipment throughout the world. Principal lines were cranes, excavators, and aerial lifts.

He has served as an expert witness for over 30 law firms in several cases nationwide, including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maryland, and Ohio.

 




Registrations and Licenses
• OSHA Accredited Maritime Signatory
• Licensed Crane Operator in Connecticut
• Certified Crane Surveyor's Card for Mobile and Tower Cranes from CCAA
• Mobile Crane Inspection Certification from NCCCO
• TWIC Credential

 

Professional Experience
• RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Crane and Heavy Equipment Expert, 2019 to present.

• Private Company, Owner, 1990 to present
Provides third-party inspections of lift equipment as required by Federal OSHA/USDOL and state codes. Performs inspections in the following categories: construction, maritime, general industry, suspended personnel platforms, and below-the-hook devices. Offers mobile crane safety training courses, crane purchasing consulting and appraisal, accident investigation and expert witness testimony.

• "Heavy" Equipment Corporation, Owner 1965-1990
Heavy equipment distributor covering New England region for crane and excavator equipment. Extensive involvement in all departments during 25 years of service. Overall responsibility was assumed as CEO in 1973 and full ownership in 1975.

Professional Associations and Activities
• Crane Certification Association of America (1992 to present)
President of Crane Certification Association of America (2009-2011)
• State of Connecticut Examining Board for Crane Operators.
Gubernatorial appointment in February 2010.
• National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO)
Co-Chair: Task Force for Crane Inspector Certification
Chair: Standing Committee for Crane Inspector Certification
• Connecticut Construction Industries Association
Presently Chair of the Safety Committee
Past President – Equipment Dealers Div.
Past Treasurer – Overall Organization
• Past Member – Associated Equipment Distributors Association
Past Lt. Director for New England Region 1
• Past Member – Utility Contractors Association
Man of the Year - 1979

Academic Background
• Babson’s Midwest Institute, AA, Business Administration and Management 1962-1965
• Manufacturer Courses & Seminars – 1965 - present

Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011162 Fire Reconstruction and Simulation



Fire Reconstruction and Simulation Consultant with more than twenty four years of teaching, research and administrative experience in academic, government and industry with diverse experience in combustion, fire safety, aviation safety, and security and transportation safety.  His professional experience includes working at government laboratories (NIST, NRL), consulting, and academia.

He achieved tenure and the rank of Associate Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1994.  Led the development of the Ph.D. program at WPI in Fire Protection Engineering and developed the Fire Science Laboratory into a dynamic research laboratory.  His research and teaching expertise focused on different aspects of fire safety and more recently aviation and transportation safety.  His recent research has included Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and Finite Element Modeling (FEM), aircraft cabin safety, aircraft FEM, aviation safety oversight standards, and hybrid-electric vehicle research with emphasis on safety of fuel cell, fuel reformers, alternative fuel use and evaluation of airbag models.




Academic Background

  • Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, 1989, University of Maryland.

  • M.S. Mechanical Engineering, 1985, University of Maryland.

  • B.S. Mechanical Engineering, 1983, University of Maryland.


Registrations

  • Professional Engineer, State of Maryland, 1996


Professional Experience

  • Fire Science and Aviation Safety and Security Consultant, RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, Maryland, 2006-present

  • Associate Provost for Research and Graduate Studies, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise University; 2007 -

  • Associate Professor of Engineering and Applied Science 2004 – 2008, Associate Research Professor of Engineering and Applied Science Sept. 1998-Oct. 2004, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, The George Washington University

  • Founder and Director (2002-2008), GW Aviation Institute (est. 1998), Member of Airworthiness Assurance Center of Excellence (AACE) since Sept. 2004

  • Director, Certificate Program in Aviation Safety and Security (1998 – present)

  • Faculty member and contributor to the Transportation Research Institute, FHWA/NHTSA National Crash Analysis Center (1994-present)

  • Project Director and Principal Investigator for the International Summit Program on Aviation Safety and Security (2001-2005)

  • Project Director and Faculty advisor for the GM/DOE sponsored Future Truck 2000 Program, 1999-2001

  • Faculty Advisor and Project Manager: GW student team for the 1999 NASA Reduced Gravity Student Flight Opportunities Program.

  • Associate Professor, Worcester Polytechnic Institute 1994-1998

  • Assistant Professor, Worcester Polytechnic Institute 1988-1994 (Promoted & tenured, 1994); Director, Fire Science and Combustion Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Worcester, MA 01609

  • Congressional Fellow, Committee on Science, U.S. House of Representatives Sept. 1995-1996.

  • Subcommittees on Basic Research and on Energy and Environment Aug. 96, Competitively selected by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to serve as a Congressional Fellow. Oversight of the Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles (PNGV) and staffed the hearing on the subject and studied Electric Transportation systems.

  • Senior Research Staff Scientist, The George Washington University, 1994-1998 (during sabbatical and leave of absence from Worcester Polytechnic Institute)

  • Principal, Applied Engineering Research, Inc., Rockville, MD, 1986-1989,Rockville, MD

  • Guest Scientist, Center for Fire Research, National Bureau of Standards, Gaithersburg, MD, 1985-1988

  • Consultant, Center for Instructional Development and Evaluation, University of Maryland, University College (UMUC), 1987

  • Research Assistant, Combustion Laboratory, University of Maryland, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 1984-1985

  • Assistant Instructor, University of Maryland, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, 1983-1985


Professional Associations and Activities

  • Flight Safety Foundation (through the Aviation Institute), 1999-2005

  • University Representative, Transportation Research Board (2005-08)

  • Member, Transportation Research Forum, 2004 -

  • Member, The Combustion Institute, since 1984.

  • Member, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), since 1987

  • Member, Society of Automotive Engineers, since 1997, excl. 2002-04.

  • Member, Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE), 1989-96.

  • Member, International Association of Fire Safety Science (IAFSS), since 1990.

  • Member, National Fire Protection Association, 1991-95.

  • Member, The Scientific Research Society, Sigma Xi, 1989-94.

  • Member (Honorary), Salamander, Fire Protection Engineering Honor Society, since 1991.


Research Activities

  • Fire Dynamics: Solid-state combustion and flame spread. Fire-induced turbulent flows, Ceiling jets; experimental and numerical modeling. Characterization and optimization of advanced smoke and fire detection technology. Water-mist flame interaction.

  • Combustion: Gas turbine combustor emission control. Pulsed combustion. Low-gravity combustion; ignition and extinguishment.

  • Thermo-Fluid: Airbag deployment models, fire-induced flows flow modeling, fluid dynamics of smoke entry into a detector. Radiation heat transfer measurement and modeling.


Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011209 Marine Safety Expert



A marine consultant for maritime regulatory and investigative cases involving ocean-going ships, commercial shipping activities, inland waterway vessel operations, and recreational boating.  Retired from the U.S. Coast Guard in 2001 with 21 years of active duty in the Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection field.

During that time he held numerous positions of responsibility during seven tours of duty in the Coast Guard while posted at Marine Safety Offices and Detachments from American Samoa to Miami, Florida.  In the period since that time, he has been a maritime expert for Lloyd’s Register, a world-class ship classification society, responsible for ensuring clients’ needs are met for ship classification, statutory surveys, port state control issues, technical consultancy, marine training  and other marine industry activities.  He is a respected authority on current maritime topics and issues and a frequent guest speaker at major maritime venues.




Education Credentials

M.B.A., California Polytechnic Institute, San Luis Obispo, 1994

B.A., Whittier College, Whittier, California, 1979

Maritime Lead Auditor – ISM Code – Warsash Institute, UK 1999

On-Scene Coordinator Crisis Management – U.S. Coast Guard, 2009

IS-00265 Basic Instructional Skills – FEMA, 2012

Master 100 Gross Tons – Motor Vessels – USCG, 2004/2009 renewal

Authorized Lloyd’s Register Trainer on these and other Lloyd’s Register courses:

  • ­Risk Management & Incident Investigation

  • ­ ISM Lead Auditor and ISM Internal Auditor Courses

  • ­ ISPS Code CSO/SSO and PFSO Courses

  • ­ Incident Command Systems (ICS) in the U.S. – co-authored

  • ­ Hull Inspection, Damage and Repair

  • ­ Classification and Statutory Requirements

  • ­ Sustainability and Shipping

  • ­ Essential Dry-docking

  • ­ Port State Control


 

Professional Experience

Marine Safety Expert Consultant, RTI Group, Annapolis, Maryland, 2013 – present

  • Proven marine industry professional, with over 32 years experience in international maritime safety, security, casualty investigation and recovery, environmental protection, training, legislation, personnel leadership, project management; honed from a career as a Commander in the U.S. Coast Guard, and an M.B.A. from California Polytechnic State University; both of which led to a second career as a regional Major Project Manager, Training and Business Development Manager with a leading ship classification society.


 

Lloyd’s Register, 2001 – Present

  • ­ Maritime statutory and regulatory (particularly U.S. marine regulations) expert. Well versed in current IMO and U.S. regulations pertaining to marine safety, environmental protection, maritime security, safety management systems, and energy efficiency from small craft to large ships. Specifically holds broad and in-depth knowledge in SOLAS, Maritime Security (ISPS) and ISM Code, MARPOL, Ballast Water and the ILO Convention, providing respected advice to clients.  Possesses over 20 years of Homeland Security expertise (U.S. Coast Guard).  Qualifies surveyors, auditors and inspectors to required international (lACS) standards on full spectrum of marine contracts.

  • ­ Project Manager for a major ship emergency response assessment involving 8 operating lines, 24 ship-rider teams (3-person teams) conducting on-site and onboard emergency response effectiveness assessments. Project uses tools developed for industrial psychology evaluations in Human Engineering. Overall effort expected to redefine emergency response training in this industry as this study is heralded as a landmark in safety management.

  • ­External Client Training Manager for the region – overseeing training administered to clients in North and South America. Responsible for authoring regional training business plan, course development, authorizing technical trainers, raising contracts, planning and executing course delivery, and obtaining customer quality feedback. Authorized Trainer holding all maritime safety, security and technical training qualifications.

  • ­   Business Development Manager – Current responsibilities include business development and marketing plans for each client, oversight of fleet ship classification contracts that often exceed $3 million in revenues. Excellent interpersonal skills, with strong business acumen. Preferred public speaker at major marine safety and environmental conferences.


 

U.S. Coast Guard. 1981 – 2001

  • Twenty-one year career officer in the Coast Guard marine safety field culminating in assignment as Executive Officer at Marine Safety Office (MSO) Miami (19962001).  Served seven tours of duty, leading men and women through responses to marine emergencies, large-scale maritime events, in all operational modes; requiring exceptional planning, tasking and organizational skills, strong personnel leadership and management, detailed budget development and analysis, and personal ethics above reproach. Held all department head positions in the Coast Guard Marine Safety, Investigation, Security, and Environmental Protection fields of operations.

  • Recognized expert in major marine incident recoveries and investigations, ranging from small craft to major marine incidents -lead investigator in the IGLOO MOON, CONTSHIP HOUSTON, CARNIVAL ECSTACY, NEPTUNE JADE casualties and other major marine accidents (1996-2001). On-scene coordinator for largest “mystery” oil spill in South Florida history (2000). Personally delegated by the Commandant USCG to investigate two extraterritorial marine casualties threatening the marine environment of the Florida Keys in 1996. Well versed in the application of the Incident Command System.

  • Staff member of team preparing responses and testimony for maritime safety hearings on Capitol Hill for the senior Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection leadership cadre of the U.S. Coast Guard during the sweeping changes within the marine safety regimen in the U.S. for global merchant shipping interests (MARPOL Annexes, OPA 90), and the increased focus on recreational, fishing, towing vessels (1989-1992).

  • ­   Received honors as Military Liaison in American Samoa (1987-1989) overseeing details for ambassador, high commissioner, and other international dignitary visits to the territorial government. Responsibilities included: Naval ship visits logistics, fuel, ships agents, and arriving military and foreign diplomatic leaders.


 

Affiliations

Member U.S. Power Boat/U.S. Sailing
Member ASIS International – Technical Committee:

  • Quality Assurance and Security Management for Private Security Companies Operating in the Maritime Environment

  • ­Supply Chain Risk Management Standard: A Compilation of Best Practices (SCRM)


Member International Association of Marine Investigators
Affiliate Member of Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors
Council Member – Gerson Lehrman Group
Free Masons

Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011221 Aviation Operations and Safety Management



Over thirty-three years of experience in aviation operations and safety management.  His professional expertise consists of extensive flight operations and successful implementation of ASAP, SMS, IOSA and QMS programs.  He has held the positions of Regional Director of Flying, Chief Pilot and Senior Check Airman. As an aviator, he was most recently captain qualified on the DC-9 / MD-80, Airbus A-320, A-330, and B767/757.  During 18 of those years, He held various positions involving Check Airman responsibilities. His operational experience is in the International, Caribbean and European theatres and has over 13,000 ATP hours.




Academic Background

• Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona, FL; Major: Professional Aeronautics; Minor: Safety.  Relevant Coursework: Safety Management Systems, Principles of Management, Accident Investigation, Aviation Human Factors – degree expected 2014

• University of Southern California, Viterbi School of Engineering, Certificate of Aviation Safety and Security Management,  Los Angeles, CA -2006

Certifications and Training

• Aircraft Specific, CRM, Command & Management Development, American Flyers Academy - 1978-1980
• Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) Total Time 13,700 hours – 1982 to present
• American Flyers Academy, Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Islip, New York - 1978-1980
• Aviation Quality Auditor – ISBAO and IOSA - 2009
• Aviation Quality Auditor Training, Air Canada, Toronto, Canada - 2006
• Aviation Safety and Security Certificate Program  - 2007
• IOSA Auditor Training, ARG/US Pros, Denver CO - 2008

Professional Experience

• RTI Group, LLC, Annapolis, MD, Aviation Safety Consultant – 2013 to present.

• Vice President Quality, Safety & Security - 2010-present
­ Responsible for oversight, management of Quality, Safety, Security for 50+ aircraft, 800 employees, $1.7M budget.  Coordinate airline safety/compliance issues with local FAA, NTSB, DOD.  Successfully implemented ASAP, SMS, QMS programs.  Repaired very poor performance levels/corporate reputation with FAA/DOD, particularly in regard to Quality/Safety management through focus on compliance/transparency; reputation was repaired, going from performance levels under serious scrutiny from FSDO/DOD to operation of airline with highest integrity, resulting in relaxation of intense oversight measures.

• Senior Vice President, - January to August 2010
Team Leader in providing airline clients with comprehensive consulting solutions regarding IOSA preparations, SMS/QMS, Safety Reporting System development and implementation, and large group training sessions. All projects were conducted in the international marketplace thus performing functions with a keen eye towards the sensitivities of cross-cultural differences.

•  Washington, DC. - 1981-2010
­ Senior Line Captain A320 (2006-2010)
­ Check Airman, Simulator & Aircraft A330-300 (1999-2006)
­ Regional Director of Flying, Senior Chief Pilot (1994-1999)
­ Assistant Chief Pilot (1992-1994)
­ Senior Check Airman, McDonald Douglas Fleet (1990-1992)
­ Check Airman, McDonald Douglas Fleet (1988-1989)
­ Captain, First Officer, Flight Engineer (1981-1988)

• GHS Aviation Auditing, LLC, McLean, VA, Managing Director - 2008-2010

• GHS Aviation Group, LLC, McLean, VA, Senior Consultant & Former Chief Operating Officer - 2004-2010

• V2 Aviation, Inc. Eliot, ME, President and Consultant - 2003-present

 

Pilot, Safety, Operation, Auditing Experience

• Air Transport Pilot, Manager, 33+ years experience; 13,000+ accident/incident/violation-free flight hours; type rated in DC-9, B757/767, A320, and A330.

• Eighteen (18) years Flight Training, Flight Operations Management; Independent Management Consultant on Safety, Training, Management, IOSA.

• Managed, supervised performance, flying activities of large international airline; responsible for oversight of approximately 1800 pilots Over 18 years management experience.

• Trained, evaluated 1000 pilots+; performed Quality Assurance observations, flight standards evaluator simulator check rides; investigated numerous incidents involving flight crew performance.

• Appointed to conduct Airbus A330 initial aircraft flight and simulator training, resulting in most successful new aircraft fleet launch in airline’s history.

• Qualified in DC-9/MD-80, A330 Advanced Simulators and CBT devices.

• Superb Check Airman credentials in commercial transport aircraft and simulators, including McDonald Douglas DC-9, MD-80, Airbus A330 Highly experienced in International operations in North Atlantic, European, Caribbean theaters.

• Consulted Government Agency concerning accidents, incidents involving Part 121,133, and 135 Air Carriers.

• Coordinated airline safety, compliance issues with local FAA, NTSB, corporate safety department Lead Auditor, Evaluator for North American-based IOSA Audit Organization.

• NTSB appointed company party coordinator.  Coordinated airline party participation in NTSB investigations.

• Liaised with Crash, Fire, Rescue officials to promote, enhance safety procedures of airline operations at Boston Logan International Airport.

• Senior Technical Consultant to number of Legacy and Low Cost operators based in Asia Pacific, Central/Latin America, the Caribbean.

• Team leader/Expert consultant on safety, operations, training, SMS, QMS, IOSA preparations.

• Author/co-author of several operational manuals regarding airline operations, training, IOSA.

• Projects include Flight Training/Flight Operations, Management/SMS/IOSA preparations/Emergency preparedness to major foreign air carriers.

• Managing Director responsible for successful accreditation by IATA of newly formed IOSA Audit Organization.

Core Areas of Expertise

• Change Management, Cultural Enhancement • Productivity & Performance Improvement
• Cost Reductions & Profit Growth • Project Planning & Management
• High-performing, Innovative Solutions • Quality Assurance, IEP
• Human Factors / Crew Resources Management • Regulatory Compliance Process Design
• Needs Analyses • Root Cause Analysis & Response
• Performance Optimization • Safety Management, Quality Management
• Pilot Training & Performance Evaluation • Strategic Planning & Execution
• Pilot Training Curriculum Development

Professional Associations and Activities

• AAR Airlift Group,
­ Flight Standards Board Committee
­ Presidents Executive Board
­ Chairman Safety Action Group
• Air Line Pilots Association, Member
• Corporate Liaison to FAA, NTSB, OSHA, DOD, DOT, DOL
• FAA Designated Examiner, MD-80; Deputized Federal Flight Deck Officer
• International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI), Member
• NASIP, LOSA,  Inspection Team Member
• US Airways Management Club, Member
• V2 Aviation Inc., Chairman, Board of Directors

Lectures and Presentations

• A330 FAA Proving Certification Pilot for International Operations
• Document & Record Control Manual
• Engine Failure - Departure Procedures for the McDonnell Douglas DC-9 & MD-80
• Executive Briefings for Quality Safety and Security Performance
• Flight Operations Manual – Airline Merger Mirror Image Project
• Internal Evaluation Program Results & Management Review Presentation
• IOSA Compliant Flight Operations & Flight Training Manuals
• IOSA Gap Analysis Reports (Multiple International Airlines)
• New Hire Pilot Performance Tracking and Evaluation Program
• Operational Risk Analysis Reports (Multiple International Airlines)
• Pilots Quick Reference Handbook (QRH)
• Quality Auditor Presentation
• Safety Management System Presentation

Read More
Author rtiAdmin
22
Oct
Date October 22, 2024

011205 Marine Accident and Safety Investigation



A marine surveyor, specializing in marine accident and safety investigation.  He is also a forensic engineer in marine and waterfront investigations and holds a license as Master of Inland Marine and near coastal vessels of 100 Gross Tons.

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




Academic Background

  • Doctor of Science in Research and Engineering Management, Southeastern Institute of Technology, Huntsville, AL, 1986

  • Master of Science in Engineering Management, Boston University, Boston, MA, 1976

  • Baccalaureate of Science in Civil Engineering, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, VA, 1971


Professional Experience

  • RTI, Forensics, LLC, Marine Accident and Safety Investigation, Hayward, CA, 2011 to present

  • Marine Surveyor and Investigator, Private company, Portland, OR, 1996 to present

  • Adjunct Technical Instructor American Boat and Yacht Council, Portland, OR, 2008 to 2011

  • Adjunct instructor, California Maritime Academy (CMA), Vallejo, CA, 1996-2000

  • Project Manager/Senior Engineer, Moffatt & Nichol Engineers, Walnut Creek, CA,   1995-1996

  • Officer, US Army/US Coast Guard, US Coast Guard Engineer Officer and Deck Watch Officer, Retired from USCG as LCDR, Various US and Overseas locations, 1971-1995


Other Professional Experience

  • Instructor, Boating Safety

  • USCG Auxiliary, 2001 to present

  • AZ Game and Fish, 2001-2008

  • Oregon State Marine Board, 2008 to present

  • Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, 2008 to present

  • Instructor, Marine Fire and Accident Investigation

  • Instructor, International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI), 2007 to present

  • Instructor, International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI), 2008 to present

  • Instructor, California Department of Boating and Waterways, 2012 – present.


Professional Associations and Activities

  • Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS)

  • National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS)

  • International Association of Marine Investigators

  • International Association of Arson Investigators

  • National Association of Fire Investigators

  • American Boat and Yacht Council

  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

  • California Boating Safety Officers Association

  • US Coast Guard Auxiliary

  • Boat Owners Association of the United States

  • Oregon Association of Licensed Investigators

  • North Pacific Fishing Vessel Owners Association Vessel Safety Program

  • National Marine Electronics Association

  • Alaska Marine Safety Education Association


Awards

  • Military awards for lifesaving and outstanding performance of duty


Licenses and Professional Affiliations

  • Master, Inland and Near Coastal Steam and Motor Vessels, 100 Gross Tons, with Assistance Towing Endorsement

  • Registered Professional Engineer (PE) (Civil): California #C55477, Arizona #37620, Florida #40098

  • Title 46 Commercial Fishing Vessel Examiner, USCG

  • Marine Radio Operator, Federal Communications Commission

  • Private Investigator, OR, #43685

  • Certified Marine Investigator, International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI)

  • Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator,

  • National Association of Fire Investigators

  • Certified Fire Investigator, International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)

  • Underwater Investigator, Dive Rescue International

  • Certified Marine Surveyor, National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS)

  • Accredited Marine Surveyor, Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS)

  • Marine Surveyor – Cargo Damage, State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College

  • Cargo Container Inspector, Institute of International Container Lessors

  • Master Marine Technician, American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), including:

  • Marine Electrical Technician

  • Marine Corrosion Technician

  • Marine Gas Engines and Support Systems Technician

  • Marine Diesel Engines and Support Systems Technician

  • Marine Systems Technician

  • Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technician

  • Composite Boat Builder

  • ABYC Standards

  • Certified Plant Engineer, Association for Facilities Engineering

  • Basic Marine Electronics Installer, National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA)

  • Advanced Marine Electronics Installer, NMEA


Read More
Author rtiAdmin
1 … 15 16 17 18 19 … 23