Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic
Dakota  Walker

Dakota Walker

Rosamond

Summary

Knowledgeable within the F135 program with solid history of managing engines, teams and driving operational success. Skilled in implementing strategic initiatives that enhance productivity and efficiency. Demonstrated ability in problem-solving and decision-making.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

F135 Base Engine Manager

Pratt & Whitney
02.2024 - Current
  • Serve as the on-site expert for F135 engine operations in a flight test environment.
  • Coordinate closely with flight test engineers, and maintenance crews to plan and support engine-related test events and upcoming maintenance.
  • Monitor engine performance data pre- and post-flight; support data reviews and anomaly investigations.
  • Manage engine configuration tracking, maintenance records, and component life usage to ensure airworthiness and test readiness.
  • Interface directly with engineering teams to resolve issues, support test objectives, and manage risk.
  • Lead or support root cause investigations for engine-related discrepancies or incidents.
  • Participate in daily flight test briefings, readiness reviews, and integrated planning meetings.
  • Maintain accountability for all F135 propulsion assets, including test engines, modules and serialized parts.
  • Support logistics planning for spares, engine shipments, and fleet sustainment needs.
  • Ensure adherence to safety, security, and compliance standards in accordance with government and policies.
  • Familiar with flight test software's such as MXI, Jiles, SAP and Alis.

Test Cell Lead Technician

Pratt & Whitney
03.2022 - 02.2024
  • Lead all aspects of F135 engine testing in the test cell, including setup, checkout, operation, and post-test teardown.
  • Operated and monitor test cell control systems and instrumentation during live engine runs.
  • Conducted functional checkouts, performance testing, and post-maintenance verification runs in accordance with technical orders and test plans.
  • Ensured test cell readiness by maintaining equipment, performing calibrations, and coordinating system upgrades or repairs.
  • Troubleshoot engine and test facility anomalies; lead root cause analysis and corrective actions.
  • Coordinated closely with flight test teams, propulsion engineers, and quality inspectors to meet test objectives and schedules.
  • Wrote and reviewed test documentation, including run logs, discrepancy reports, and data packages.
  • Mentored junior technicians and support training in test cell operations and engine safety protocols.
  • Ensured strict adherence to safety procedures, security requirements, and environmental regulations during all test activities.

F135 Inspector/Maintenance Technician

Pratt & Whitney
02.2021 - 03.2023
  • Performed maintenance, teardown, build-up, and inspection of F135 engine modules and components in accordance with Pratt & Whitney technical data and U.S. government standards.
  • Conducted visual, dimensional, and non-destructive inspections on engine hardware to identify defects, damage, or wear.
  • Documented inspection results, discrepancies, and corrective actions using internal reporting systems and government-mandated forms.
  • Interpreted technical data, engineering drawings, and service bulletins to ensure compliance with all maintenance and inspection requirements.
  • Collaborated with quality, engineering, and logistics personnel to troubleshoot issues, determine root cause, and implement corrective actions.
  • Maintained accountability of tools, support equipment, and engine components in accordance with Pratt & Whitney and DoD policies.
  • Supported test cell or field engine operations as needed, including pre/post-run inspections.
  • Assisted with shipping/receiving, kitting, and storage of engine parts and modules.
  • Ensured strict adherence to safety regulations, quality standards, and FOD (Foreign Object Damage) control procedures.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Animation And Special Effects

Academy of Art University
San Francisco, CA
05-2033

Skills

  • Customer service
  • Team leadership
  • Time management
  • Decision-making
  • Documentation and reporting
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Strategic planning
  • Operations management
  • Conflict resolution
  • Process improvement
  • Problem-solving aptitude

Certification

F-135 Test Cell Operator Certification

F-135 Borescope Certification

F-135 Inspector Certification

Top Secret Security Clearence


Languages

English

Timeline

F135 Base Engine Manager

Pratt & Whitney
02.2024 - Current

Test Cell Lead Technician

Pratt & Whitney
03.2022 - 02.2024

F135 Inspector/Maintenance Technician

Pratt & Whitney
02.2021 - 03.2023

Bachelor of Arts - Animation And Special Effects

Academy of Art University
Dakota Walker