Michael Petronis
Virginia Beach
Summary
Results-driven professional with extensive experience in training F/A-18 aircrew and leading operational exercises. Demonstrated expertise in logistical planning and fostering teamwork among cross-functional teams to enhance mission success. Passionate about the business of Naval Aviation and keeping the pointy end of the spear sharp!
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Contract Simulator Instructor
LB&B Associates
NAS Oceana, VA
01.2014 - Current
- Delivered F/A-18 simulator and classroom instruction to replacement aircrew (RAC) in accordance with approved fleet replacement squadron (FRS) syllabus.
- Mentored junior instructors, promoting knowledge transfer and enhancing overall team performance.
- Evaluated trainee performance through simulations, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
- Collaborated with technical teams to ensure simulator accuracy and reliability during training sessions.
Senior Tactical Systems Analyst
Tactical Air Support, Inc. (part Time Employee)
NAS Oceana, VA
04.2021 - Current
- Evaluated system requirements to optimize operational efficiency and ensure mission-critical support for F/A-18 operations.
- Facilitated collaboration among cross-functional teams to drive successful implementation of new hardware and software solutions.
- Developed documentation outlining system specifications, processes, and user guidelines for stakeholders.
Captain
United States Naval Reserves
NR C3F NALE HQ, San Diego, CA
12.2021 - Current
- Led training exercises to enhance team readiness and operational effectiveness.
- Oversaw logistical planning for missions, ensuring resource availability and strategic alignment.
- Coordinated joint exercises with allied forces, strengthening inter-service collaboration and interoperability.
- Developed tactical operations plans to address evolving situational demands and challenges.
- Evaluated mission outcomes, providing insights for continuous improvement in tactical strategies.
- Mentored junior officers, fostering leadership skills and enhancing unit performance standards.
Instructor Weapons System Officer (WSO)
VFA-106
NAS Oceana, VA
10.2006 - 02.2021
- Facilitated over 2000 hours of rigorous flight instruction in the F/A18 for replacement aircrew (RAC), resulting in a robust pipeline of qualified pilots and WSOs for the operational fleet.
- Directed operations as Commanding Officer of VFA-106 Reserve Component, overseeing 20 USNR aviators and flight officers alongside 32 enlisted personnel in training and mentoring F/A-18 E/F replacement aircrew.
- Achieved high standards of training as a Standardization Officer in all phases of the fleet replacement squadron (FRS) syllabus.
- Enhanced mission readiness by serving as a qualified Forward Air Controller (Airborne).
Education
Bachelor of Science - Resource Economics
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Amherst, MA05-1998
Skills
- Highly qualified & experienced F/A18 flight instructor
- Over 3500 hours in Navy jets
- 2000 hours as an instructor in the F/A18
- Tested Leadership
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Reliability
- Customer Service
- Problem-solving
- Passionate professional
Certification
Top Secret / SCI
NATOPS Qualified in the F/A18
Flight Instructor
FAC(A)
NVG Instructor
Timeline
Captain
United States Naval Reserves
12.2021 - Current
Senior Tactical Systems Analyst
Tactical Air Support, Inc. (part Time Employee)
04.2021 - Current
Contract Simulator Instructor
LB&B Associates
01.2014 - Current
Instructor Weapons System Officer (WSO)
VFA-106
10.2006 - 02.2021
Bachelor of Science - Resource Economics
University of Massachusetts, Amherst