Charles Edwards

With several years of experience in aircraft service, manufacturing, and quality/process auditing, I bring a proven ability to deliver exceptional results in aircraft manufacturing and compliance. My expertise spans precision measurement, advanced inspection techniques, and the interpretation of complex engineering drawings and blueprints. Proficient in utilizing quality management systems, industry-specific software, and regulatory standards to uphold and exceed rigorous quality control requirements.

Principal Quality Assurance Policy and Strategy Analyst - Northrop Grumman - El Segundo, CA

(2022 - 2024)

• Developed, maintained, and ensured compliance with quality assurance programs, policies, and procedures.
• Oversaw product performance and quality to ensure conformance with established standards, specifications, and regulatory guidelines.
• Led internal audits per AS9100 compliance standards, driving continuous process improvements.
• Provided expert guidance on interpreting policies, regulations, and agency guidelines to ensure compliance across programs.
• Led Factory Accountability and Manufacturing Process Audits, collaborating with operational teams to ensure adherence to quality standards.
• Enforced inspection protocols and program requirements to meet customer and program specifications.
• Collected and analyzed data to identify trends, facilitate corrective actions, and recommend process improvements. Conducted quality assessments of in-process parts, assemblies, and installations using engineering drawings, inspection planning, and specifications.

Quality Assurance Inspection - Final Assembly (Composites Ctr.) - Northrop Grumman - El Segundo, CA

(2009 - 2022)

• Inspected prototype and production parts (plastic, fiberglass, carbon composite, and metal-plastic) for conformance with engineering specifications and drawings.
• Used precision measuring instruments and setup tools for dimensional and visual inspections.
• Applied Material Review Board (MRB) processes to assess nonconforming parts across aircraft programs.
• Conducted visual inspections for defects (delamination, cracks, porosity, etc.) and verified assembly processes, including ply orientation, layup, and curing. Conducted inspections (in-process and final) on propulsion components, large structures and mechanical assemblies.
• Ensured compliance with aerospace standards, specifications, and environmental/process controls.
• Performed receiving, in-process, and final inspections to verify functional operation and adherence to government/company standards.
• Collected and analyzed data to identify trends, facilitate corrective actions, and recommend process improvements. Conducted quality assessments of in-process parts, assemblies, and installations using engineering drawings, inspection planning, and specifications. Conducted quality assessments of in-process parts, assemblies, and installations using engineering drawings, inspection planning, and specifications. Review all hardware requirements and determine pass/fail status, documenting outcomes

Systems/Structure Mechanic - Northrop Grumman - Palmdale, CA

(2009 - 2009)

• Applied sealants, primers, and epoxies with precision to aircraft systems and structures.
• Utilized precision tools (micrometers, depth gauges, calipers, etc.) for accurate measurements and inspections. Verified compliance with environmental and process controls to meet specifications.
• Experienced in Final Assembly, Close-Out Operations, major and sub-assembly build up and installations.

Electromechanical Flight Technician - Jet Propulsion Laboratory - Pasadena, CA

(2007 - 2009)

• Assembled and handled delicate flight hardware within cleanroom environments (100-10,000 class), adhering to strict ESD and contamination control protocols.
• Performed mechanical assembly and space flight bonding operations using specialized adhesives to establish thermal, electrical, and mechanical connections on complex composite and structural assemblies.
• Applied thermal paints and coatings per government specifications and AQMD regulations to enhance hardware performance and compliance.
• Conducted detailed inspections of flight hardware to ensure conformance with engineering drawings, blueprints, and quality standards, utilizing calibrated tools and advanced inspection techniques.
• Collaborated closely with engineering teams to troubleshoot assembly and testing issues, providing actionable feedback to enhance producibility and manufacturing processes.
• Participated in testing and validation of electromechanical systems, ensuring reliability and performance while maintaining detailed documentation for all assembly and inspection activities.
• Demonstrated proficiency in executing precise mechanical procedures, such as bonding, drilling, and torquing, in support of daily operations.
• Assisted in static testing of structural parts or assemblies as required.
• Effectively communicated hardware status and progress to supervisors, leads and engineering, leveraging MS Office tools to provide regular updates and reports.
• Maintained strict adherence to safety protocols in high-bay and cleanroom environments to ensure the integrity of flight hardware and support mission-critical objectives.

Aircraft structures and Surface Mechanic - Boeing - Long Beach, CA

(1987 - 2005)

• Assembled and installed aircraft structures and surfaces, ensuring precision and compliance with engineering specifications. Performed functions of Sheet Metal Worker/Fitter, Senior and General Modification Mechanic and Assembler-Installers.
• Conducted checkout and pressure testing of structures and surfaces for safety and functionality prior to flight operations.
• Improvised shop aids in lieu of tooling, for fabricating, assembling, installing, and mating product structures. Assisted with information required to build necessary tooling.
• Installed actuators and reservoirs for hydraulic systems, ensuring proper integration and performance.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve structural and surface issues, maintaining high quality and safety standards.
• Performed routine maintenance and repairs on aircraft structures, ensuring compliance with regulatory and company standards.

Aircraft Power Plant Maintenance - Westwood College of Aviation Technology (2001)

FAA General, Airframe and Power Plant License - Aviation and Electronic School of America (2000)