Ken Erstad
El Cajon,CA
Summary
Journey-level mechanic with extensive experience maintaining public-facing transportation and ride systems in safety-critical environments. Former lead SkyRide mechanic with strong background in inspections, troubleshooting, documentation, and long-term asset reliability. Known for disciplined maintenance practices, teamwork, and a calm, safety-first approach in high-visibility operations.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Field Service Technician
ARBON / Rite-Hite
2024.05 - Current
- Diagnose, maintain, and repair industrial dock equipment including levelers, restraints, doors, lifts, and hydraulic systems.
- Troubleshoot electrical and mechanical faults using diagnostic tools and technical documentation.
- Maintain service records, inventory, tools, and company vehicle in compliance with safety standards.
- Communicate clearly with customers and internal teams regarding equipment condition and repair recommendations.
Industrial Mechanic (Part-Time)
White Labs Brewing
2023.11 - 2024.05
- Inspected and repaired industrial and laboratory equipment including pumps, motors, compressors, boilers, and facility systems.
- Performed preventative maintenance and general facility repairs in a production environment.
Lead Industrial Mechanic
Evans Hotels
2023.01 - 2024.04
- Oversaw inspection, maintenance, and repair of fleet vehicles and industrial laundry equipment.
- Developed maintenance schedules and SOPs to improve reliability and safety.
- Ordered parts and managed shop operations.
SkyRide / Amusement Ride Mechanic (Lead)
SeaWorld San Diego
2008.02 - 2022.06
- Lead mechanic responsible for inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and ordering supplies of an aerial tramway system operating continuously over guests.
- Performed daily, weekly, and scheduled inspections on mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and conveyor systems.
- Identified wear patterns, monitored component condition, and addressed issues proactively to maintain safe, reliable operation.
- Maintained accurate service logs, inspection records, and maintenance documentation in compliance with regulatory and safety standards.
- Assisted with PLC-related troubleshooting and coordinated repairs with operations, contractors, and other departments.
- Served as a safety-focused mentor to other mechanics.
Aircraft Munitions Mechanic / Supervisor
United States Air Force
2001.09 - 2007.01
- Supervised a small team assembling and maintaining aircraft munitions for: B-52 Bomber, B-2 Bomber and F-16 Falcon aircraft.
- Served as munitions accountability manager for a forward operating base.
- Emphasized safety, procedural compliance, and detailed documentation.
- Earned National Defense service medal for involvement in Iraqi freedom/enduring freedom.
Aircraft Bomb Ejector Rack Mechanic
United States Marine Corps
1996.07 - 2000.07
- Assembled and maintained aircraft munitions and bomb ejector racks for: Av8B Harrier, F-14 Tomcat, AH1W Cobra and A-10 Warthog.
- Worked in high-risk environments requiring strict adherence to safety and technical procedures.
- Earned National Defense service medal for involvement in Desert Storm.
Education
7-level (Craftsman Equivalent) - Aircraft Munitions Assembly Leadership Course
USAF 7-level AF Combat Munitions Assembly
Sacramento, CA2005-05
High School Degree (Cum Laude) - JROTC
Theodore Roosevelt
Honolulu, HI1996-06
Skills
Extensive VonRoll VR-101 grip building/testing
Mechanical & electrical troubleshooting
Preventative maintenance & inspections
Hydraulic & pneumatic systems
Motors, drives, conveyors, and fleet equipment
Diagnostic tools & technical manuals
Service documentation & maintenance records
Safety-critical, public-facing operations
Team communication & procedural compliance
Certified and proficient with: forklift, scissor lift, boom lift, truck crane
Some welding experience
Woodworking/Carpentry
Plumbing, sweating pipes, conduit bending
Timeline
Field Service Technician
ARBON / Rite-Hite
2024.05 - Current
Industrial Mechanic (Part-Time)
White Labs Brewing
2023.11 - 2024.05
Lead Industrial Mechanic
Evans Hotels
2023.01 - 2024.04
SkyRide / Amusement Ride Mechanic (Lead)
SeaWorld San Diego
2008.02 - 2022.06
Aircraft Munitions Mechanic / Supervisor
United States Air Force
2001.09 - 2007.01
Aircraft Bomb Ejector Rack Mechanic
United States Marine Corps
1996.07 - 2000.07
7-level (Craftsman Equivalent) - Aircraft Munitions Assembly Leadership Course
USAF 7-level AF Combat Munitions Assembly
High School Degree (Cum Laude) - JROTC
Theodore Roosevelt