Dawn Russell
California City
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience at the 370th Flight Test Squadron, adept in project management and ethical leadership. Proven track record in enhancing team efficiency and reducing costs through streamlined processes. Skilled in Microsoft Office and fostering collaboration, driving continuous improvement, and mentoring staff for professional growth.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Section Chief, Command Support Staff
370th Flight Test Squadron, USAF
Edwards AFB, CA
06.2021 - Current
- Coordinated daily operations, ensuring efficient workflow and team collaboration.
- Project planning and execution, adapting quickly to changing priorities and tasks.
- Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot issues, promoting a culture of problem-solving and adaptability.
- Evaluated employee performance fairly, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement efforts.
- Enhanced team efficiency by implementing streamlined processes and procedures for daily operations.
- Developed strong relationships with external partners to ensure timely collaboration on projects.
- Developed comprehensive risk management strategies to proactively identify potential issues before they escalated.
- Reduced overhead costs, identifying and eliminating unnecessary expenses in the department budget.
- Budgeted funds for training on regular basis.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations, conducting regular audits and reviews of operational practices.
- Conducted performance reviews to identify employee strengths and encourage professional development opportunities.
- Liaised with accounting manager to formulate department and fixed asset budgets.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
- Conducted thorough reviews of various documents, ensuring accuracy before submission to higher authorities.
- Participated in team meetings, contributing insights for process improvements and operational efficiency.
- Managed documentation for ongoing projects, maintaining accuracy and organization of records.
- Collaborated with other departments to accomplish joint tasks efficiently, fostering positive relationships between teams.
- Demonstrated excellent problem-solving skills, addressing various issues promptly and effectively to maintain smooth operations.
- Trained personnel in important first response procedures.
- Conveyed communication between military personnel at home and war zone bases.
Reality Specialist
Army Corps of Engineers
Kansas City, MO
03.2017 - Current
- Managed property contracts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with local and federal regulations.
- Established relationships with vendors and contractors to streamline maintenance and repair processes for properties.
- Placed bid announcements to enhance property visibility and attract potential buyers.
- Facilitated negotiations between lessee and the Army Corps of Engineers, fostering positive communication and outcomes.
- Handled challenging situations professionally, resolving conflicts between parties involved in transactions diplomatically.
- Streamlined client communication processes for improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Reviewed and executed confidential documents, contracts and disclosures.
- Prepared and presented contracts and other legal documents to clients.
Command Support Staff Team Lead
303rd Fighter Squadron
Whiteman Air Force Base, MO
11.2014 - 05.2021
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency and achieve project milestones.
- Developed training programs that improved team performance and knowledge retention.
- Streamlined workflows, resulting in reduced turnaround times for project deliverables.
- Coordinated resource allocation to ensure optimal team productivity and task completion.
- Mentored junior staff, fostering professional growth and enhancing team capabilities.
- Implemented process improvements that increased accuracy in reporting and task execution.
- Served as a role model for the team by demonstrating commitment to excellence, professionalism, and adherence to company values at all times.
- Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
- Developed effective improvement plans in alignment with goals and specifications.
Human Resources Specialist
US Army
Lexington, MO
06.1998 - 09.2013
- Streamlined onboarding processes, enhancing new hire engagement and retention rates.
- Conducted performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to drive employee development.
- Maintained personnel records and statistical data to establish accuracy and compliance with applicable regulations.
- Conducted routine HR audits to ensure data accuracy in personnel files, payroll records, and benefit enrollments.
- Ensured compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws through regular audits and policy updates.
- Monitored employee attendance and performance, addressing issues in accordance with company policies and procedures.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to foster professional growth.
- Promoted culture of continuous improvement, encouraging staff to share innovative ideas for organizational growth.
- Improved organizational filing systems for confidential employee records, resulting in improved accessibility and efficiency.
Education
Bachelor of Science - General Studies With Minor in Psychology
Columbia College
Kansas City, MO12-2016
Skills
- Ethical leadership
- Project management
- Administrative management
- Microsoft office use
- Workforce planning
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Adaptability and flexibility
Certification
- Project Management Certification Training - April 2026
Timeline
Section Chief, Command Support Staff
370th Flight Test Squadron, USAF
06.2021 - Current
Reality Specialist
Army Corps of Engineers
03.2017 - Current
Command Support Staff Team Lead
303rd Fighter Squadron
11.2014 - 05.2021
Human Resources Specialist
US Army
06.1998 - 09.2013
Bachelor of Science - General Studies With Minor in Psychology
Columbia College