John Heintzelman

Part 107 Drone Pilot. Results-driven Program Analyst and technical publications specialist with 29+ years of military and federal service. Ph.D. in Research Psychology with deep expertise in Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programs, Air Force tactical publications (AFTTP/AFOTTP), and cross-functional program management.

Proven leader in veteran's advocacy, contract oversight, and organizational operations spanning U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force assignments worldwide. Skilled in analytical methods, quality assurance, technical writing, and graphic design.

Foreign Military Sales Program Analyst (GS-12) at U.S. Air Force Warfare Center (2023-12 – Present)

• Lead program analysis for the FMS Tactics Manual Program, determine business and technical requirements for international partner nations, and align deliverables with cost, schedule, and performance objectives.
• Serve as the 561 JTS subject matter expert in writing and editing, performing final quality assurance on all AFTTP/AFOTTP and FMS Technical Bulletin publications before Major Command approval.
• Apply rated aviator expertise to analyze, develop, and evaluate system-specific tactical materials for incorporation into classified and unclassified FMS publications.
• Design and conduct comprehensive studies using quantitative and qualitative methods, developing actionable recommendations for senior leadership on operational and contingency programs.
• Received multiple individual performance time-off awards for exceptional contributions to the FMS program.

Technical Editor & Graphic Illustrator (GS-11) at 561st Joint Tactics Squadron, U.S. Air Force (2019-12 – 2023-12)

• Authored and edited numerous 3-3 and 3-1 AFTTP publications and Technical/Flash Bulletins; designed tables, figures, and graphics to enhance clarity in tactical publications.
• Collaborated with FMS stakeholders on technical and tactical aspects of Air Force publications; created the FMS organizational patch graphic for branding and outreach.
• Reorganized graphics workflow to improve illustration and editing efficiency; ensured proper security classification across all products, including SAP and SCI materials.
• Consulted with senior subject matter specialists and agency officials on broad program operations, serving as a technical expert for publication standards.

Support Services Program Manager at U.S. VETS – Las Vegas (2015-03 – 2019-12)

• Directed all veteran family services and programs across the greater Las Vegas area, leading a 20-person staff in outreach, intake, housing, benefits, and employment services for homeless and at-risk veterans.
• Managed $5.7M in supportive services and emergency assistance funds; led grant writing and budget activities to maximize organizational impact and secure government funding.
• Recognized by the Nevada Governor (Feb 2018) as Nevada Veteran of the Month for outstanding community impact; facilitated housing, employment, and services for 540+ veterans and families in a 12-month period.
• Built lasting partnerships with the VA, community agencies, landlords, and vendors; maintained compliance with HMIS tracking and continuum of care requirements.

Senior Program Manager & Facilitator at Operations Group, U.S. Army National Training Center (2012-01 – 2015-02)

• Senior advisor and program manager overseeing collective training operations at the U.S. Army's premier Combat Training Center, supporting rotational brigade combat teams in realistic force-on-force exercises.
• Developed and evaluated unit training plans, air-ground integration materials, and testing procedures; served as test operations specialist for complex weapon systems evaluation.
• Principal contributor to long-term doctrine development with the U.S. Army Infantry Center at Fort Benning, GA; established accountability systems for $4M in property and equipment.
• Authored technical reports for senior AF, DoD, and joint service executive review using quantitative and qualitative assessment methods.

Asst. Director of Operations / Battalion Ops SGM at 1st Battalion, 503rd Airborne, 173rd Airborne Brigade, U.S. Army (2009-02 – 2011-12)

• Managed and integrated a multi-disciplined staff of military, civilian, and contractor personnel (842+) supporting worldwide operational requirements and contingency deployments across Europe.
• Served as Contracting Officer Representative (COR), ensuring contractor performance and compliance; facilitated requirements development and contract management activities.
• Principal consultant on readiness, individual and collective training, and organizational development; directed tactical live-fire exercises, airborne operations, and field training.
• Represented the organization at meetings and conferences with U.S. government officials, contractors, and foreign military representatives on international security cooperation.

Ph.D. in Research Psychology – Capella University (2020)

M.A. in Sports & Performance Psychology – University of the Rockies (2013)

B.A. in Visual Communication & Digital Design – American Intercontinental University (2006)