DEMETRIUS POOLE
Lancaster
Summary
Experienced and detail-oriented aerospace and materials testing professional with 15+ years of expertise in composite fabrication, mechanical testing, and test lab operations within highly controlled environments. Proven leader with experience overseeing shop floor personnel, executing ASTM-based mechanical testing, and supporting R&D initiatives. Skilled in interpreting engineering drawings, configuring complex test setups, and ensuring precise data collection and reporting. Strong background in environmental, vibration, pressure, and structural testing with a safety-first mindset and commitment to operational excellence.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Fabrication & Test Technician
Cambium Biomaterials
08.2025 - Current
- Prepare and machine composite test coupons for mechanical characterization
- Perform destructive testing (tension, compression, shear) using electromechanical load frames
- Install and calibrate strain measurement systems (extensometers and strain gages)
- Bond composite tabs and prepare samples for thermal and microscopic analysis (DSC, DMA, TGA)
- Support R&D engineering teams while maintaining strict safety and SOP compliance
Supervisor, Test Lab
Virgin Galactic
Mojave, CA
10.2021 - 07.2025
- Provided daily oversight of shop floor personnel, ensuring adherence to procedures and quality standards
- Assigned tasks to meet production and testing milestones while optimizing workflow efficiency
- Developed and mentored technicians through structured coaching and skills training
- Managed data collection and reporting of test results to engineers and leadership
Lead Engineering Technician, Materials Test Lab
Virgin Galactic
Mojave, CA
03.2020 - 10.2021
- Conducted mechanical testing of composite materials including tensile, compression, flexural, and elongation
- Fabricated instrumentation, electro-mechanical assemblies, and wire harnesses for test equipment
- Collaborated with engineers on R&D projects to validate material performance
- Interpreted engineering drawings and applied GD&T for precise test setup and fabrication
Composite Technician
Virgin Galactic
Mojave, CA
08.2015 - 03.2020
- Fabricated composite parts using wet layup and prepreg materials
- Performed precision trimming, grinding, and cutting using CNC and hand tools
- Executed bonding and structural assembly per engineering specifications
- Self-inspected work to ensure quality compliance and minimized defects
Lead Composite Utility Worker
Hitco Carbon Composites
Gardena, CA
11.2011 - 08.2015
- Supported CNC machinists with tooling setup and changeovers
- Laid up composite parts per ply schedules and work instructions
- Performed vacuum bagging setup and execution
- Conducted inspection, deburring, and tooling maintenance
Education
Diploma -
Antelope Valley High School
Lancaster, CA06-2006
Skills
- Team Leadership & Workforce Development
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Root Cause Analysis & Problem Solving
- Mechanical Testing (Tensile, Compression, Shear)
- ASTM Testing Standards
- Composite Fabrication & Assembly
- Composite Trimming & Tight-Tolerance Drilling
- Strain Measurement & Instrumentation Setup
- GD&T Interpretation
- Data Collection & Technical Reporting
- Computer & Test Software Proficiency
- Safety & SOP Compliance
Timeline
Fabrication & Test Technician
Cambium Biomaterials
08.2025 - Current
Supervisor, Test Lab
Virgin Galactic
10.2021 - 07.2025
Lead Engineering Technician, Materials Test Lab
Virgin Galactic
03.2020 - 10.2021
Composite Technician
Virgin Galactic
08.2015 - 03.2020
Lead Composite Utility Worker
Hitco Carbon Composites
11.2011 - 08.2015
Diploma -
Antelope Valley High School