Shawn West, M.Aero.E

The rise and fall of a great American company. As someone who's formative years were supported by Big B through a relationship with my father's business, I have followed Boeing's demise closely over the past few years. My father and every one of his 400+ employees were extremely proud to consistently win machining contracts for Boeing, some of which ran for years. How did Certified Manufacturing Company, Inc., from little ol' Shelton, WA, win those big contracts in the very competitive aerospace subcontractor space? By having what Boeing considered "the right stuff", for which the business was awarded Boeing's Small Business Subcontractor of the year on multiple occasions. That "right stuff" was front and center on a big sign above Certified's main machinists' floor that dictated the company's basic principles for success: 1. Make it RIGHT 2. Make it ON TIME 3. Make a PROFIT BUT FIRST, MAKE IT RIGHT! How did Boeing lose its way? A combination of corporate greed, non-aviation leadership, and abhorrent exercises in public damage control. For some time now, Boeing has NOT made things RIGHT, has not delivered ON TIME, and is now struggling to PROFIT. If my dad were still alive, Boeing's crash and burn would kill him!

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While this is an extreme example of poor QHSE culture and cronyism, I believe this is worth watching. In this instance a long term engineer moved into a quality role, where he applied the best skill anyone can learn: see something, say something. There are many companies providing great examples for QHSE culture, and arguably more out there doing mediocre stop gaps. What I see in the video is a technical person like myself completely frustrated, and this didn't start as a legal concern hearing. It started with a bandaid, and then another..... Sometimes we have to make do with a bandaid, but the idea is we take it off routinely to improve the issue. If you're adding layers, or sensing legal issues down the line the QHSE culture is WRONG. Having the proper mediums or channels to report issues is just the beginning. The culture is grown from the top down. Now I'm going to verify my next flights don't include these models if at all possible. Not just because of what one individual said or fear of quality concerns (I am concerned by the way), but because I don't want to support poor QHSE culture. #QHSE #management #leadership https://lnkd.in/gbzstUCh

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Transitioning out of the service and working in your resume? Lori Norris has amazing tips on building a resume with a focus! Listen to episode 165 of Lessons Learned for Vets Podcast. Figure out your why before you build your resume!

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“Leadership can be surmised into one word Trust,” said General Colin Powell, during a speech at the white house. At the core, TRUST is the cornerstone of effective leadership, serving as the bedrock upon which all relationships and collaborations are built. It fosters an environment of openness, respect, and mutual understanding, allowing teams to thrive and individuals to reach their full potential. Servant leadership, on the other hand, emphasizes putting the needs of others first, prioritizing the growth and well-being of the team over personal gain. This selfless approach builds trust and inspires loyalty and commitment among team members, driving collective success and organizational excellence. Together, trust and servant leadership form the pillars of a great leader, guiding them to lead with integrity, empathy, and vision, creating lasting impact and transformative change. #trustedleader

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Tried to enlist in the Air Force in 1991. I have flat feet so I got booted. "You will have back issues. There is too much running involved", they said. Several marathons, plenty of total running miles later, I have no issues. Knees are still good. Back is good. Hips, meh. Feet - still flat. Suffice to say that I think I could have done the job. Wasn't meant to be though. The US Government, aka, the "hiring manager" had their requirements and I didn't fit them. Do I wish it had worked out differently? Not sure. Most people I know probably cannot envision me as a career military guy. I don't know that I would have been, but I do think I would have enjoyed the experience. Whatever. Living in the past doesn't do any of us any good. Wishing that I had gotten a job that I didn't get doesn't do me any good. I punched a street sign as I left MEPS in Tampa, FL and went about finding the next thing I was supposed to do with my life. Wallowing for a few days and embarrassed (big time) to have to share that my flat feet kept me out of the military. We typically don't get to decide why we didn't get the job. We just didn't get it. It helped that I knew why. That was a HUGE help. People don't get jobs every day, but aren't always told why. When you have a reason, recruiters, share the reason. You may have to flavor it differently to make your client or hiring manager ok with it (sad but true), but give a reason. Hopefully a punched street sign is the worst thing that happens and then the applicant moves on to something else. Applicants, when you are given a reason, be gracious in accepting it. You won't always like it - I know I didn't - but it usually does nobody any good to try and debate too hard when it comes to these things. #MyTwoCents #LookingToBeBetter

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A-10 pilots are trained to shoot the 30mm Gatling Gun less than a football field away from friendly forces . . that’s a significant amount of firepower coming down in close proximity to friendly troops. And when things are going badly on the battlefield, there’s nothing more ground troops want to hear than an A-10 overhead. Why? Because over time, we have developed a bond with the troops on the ground. We have a proven track record of performance when it comes to these highly demanding situations. And when we hear “Cleared Hot” over the radio, confirming that we can shoot in close proximity to friendly forces, we know the ground controller also has the same high-level of skills and abilities. We trust each other and we value each other’s expertise so that when the situation demands it, we are prepared to execute.   Trust in a team is critical. It is absolutely the foundation for achieving a high level of performance. So how do we build that trust? ➡ Credibility: We establish credibility in our own area of expertise by ensuring we have the skills necessary to execute at the highest level. We train to be able to perform in complex scenarios, we train for worst case scenarios, and we train under stress. We are good at what we do. ➡ Reliability: We work together on a regular and consistent basis. We prove to each other that we are capable of performing in high stress situations. We deliver results. ➡ Dependability: We develop a sense of camaraderie and connection. We know that we can count on each other to get the job done. We show up when needed. ➡ Accountability: When we make mistakes or when we get it wrong, we take ownership of our actions. We share open and honest feedback so we can do it better the next time. Developing trust in a team takes time and commitment. However, when faced with adversity and uncertainty in a complex and dynamic environment, trust is absolutely critical to mission success. #trust #teamwork #FlyingInTheFaceOfFear

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There's never a perfect flight. ✈️ If the Air Force Thunderbirds waited for perfection, they'd never fly. It might seem strange to some that a team dedicated to excellence is constantly making small errors. Fortunately, most of the mistakes are minor and go unnoticed by fans on the ground. Note how the aircraft in this video bounce around. From the ground, the formation looks perfect. From the pilot's perspective, we make constant micro-adjustments to maintain 3' of separation. This type of flying requires deep concentration and trust. Have you ever hesitated to start something important because you didn't feel perfectly ready? • Perfect is the enemy of good. • Don't wait for perfection to get started. • Be willing to make mistakes and learn from it. Wouldn’t you rather be good versus sitting on the ground just thinking about it ?? What was something you started before you were ready? What was the outcome? Let me know in the comments 👇 ------------------------ Hi I'm Michelle. I'm a former fighter pilot turned speaker, author, and coach. If you found this helpful, consider reposting ♻️ and follow me for more content like this.

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🛩️ 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗨.𝗦. 𝗔𝗶𝗿 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲'𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁-𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗶𝗿 𝗗𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 (𝗡𝗚𝗔𝗗) 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺: 𝗕𝗼𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘃𝘀. 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗵𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻 🥊 The U.S. Air Force is embarking on an ambitious journey to develop a 6th-generation fighter jet that will redefine air superiority. 📜 The Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program pits aerospace giants Boeing and Lockheed Martin against each other in a high-stakes competition. 🚀 While details of the NGAD program remain highly classified, recent developments have shed light on the progress made by both contenders. Lockheed Martin has successfully flown a full-scale flight demonstrator, a testament to their expertise and commitment to the project. Meanwhile, Boeing is diligently working on their own classified demonstrator, showcasing their determination to secure the contract. 🦅 The NGAD fighter is expected to incorporate a plethora of cutting-edge technologies, including: 1. Advanced stealth capabilities that push the boundaries of radar evasion 🔍 2. An "adaptive cycle" engine that optimizes performance for both supersonic speed and extended-range missions 🌪️ 3. State-of-the-art sensors, avionics, and radar systems that provide unparalleled situational awareness 📡 4. Artificial intelligence to enhance pilot decision-making and overall mission effectiveness 🧠 5. Potential integration of directed-energy weapons, offering new tactical options 🎯 Furthermore, the NGAD fighter will feature collaborative combat capabilities, enabling seamless coordination with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other assets. 🤝 This "family of systems" approach will provide unprecedented flexibility and force multiplication on the battlefield. 💪 No more worrying about the payload capacity, you have your trustworthy squadron of drones flying with you, waiting for your command to strike down the enemy. Both Boeing and Lockheed Martin bring a wealth of experience to the table, having developed iconic aircraft such as the F-22, F-35, and F/A-18. However, the NGAD program presents a unique challenge that will require innovative thinking and cutting-edge engineering. 🔧 The U.S. Air Force is expected to select a winner for the NGAD contract in 2024, with the goal of achieving operational capability by 2030. 📅 As the competition intensifies, the aerospace community eagerly awaits the outcome of this ground-breaking program. The NGAD fighter will not only shape the future of the U.S. Air Force but also set new standards for air dominance in the 21st century. 🌍 As Boeing and Lockheed Martin push the boundaries of what is possible, the world watches with bated breath, knowing that the winner of this epic battle will forever change the landscape of aerial warfare. 🛩️💥 #NGAD #6thGenerationFigher #FutureOfFlight #BoeingvsLockheed #AerospaceIndustry #AviationTechnology #AirSupremacy #GameChangingTechnology #CuttingEdgeAviation #AerospaceCompetition #ArtificialIntelligence #UAV

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The approaching scenario must include visual maneuvering from the final approach course to a base or downwind leg as appropriate for the landing. Runway the applicant may circle to land on a runway less than 90° offset from the final approach course provided the applicant makes at least 90° of total heading changes. This is the reason why JFK airport is used in full flight simulators for the circle to land approach requirement during a check ride or checking event. And yes, there are other airports that can be used.

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With so much demand for innovation, where does a culture of maintenance fit into office work? Like many #veterans, the military taught me the the value of maintaining systems. Maintaining digital systems is just as important! I didn’t come easily to a habit of maintenance, and didn’t always look forward to spending an entire day each week performing weekly tank maintenance. Under the guidance of my platoon sergeant Doug Merritt, MSL everyone learned meticulous maintenance routines to keep our tanks running and ensure operational readiness. Translating this mindset to the corporate world may seem a stretch, but it can lead to increased efficiencies and time savings. Here are some maintenance tips for knowledge workers: The Set-Up: 📋 Streamline file organization to save time and avoid unnecessary search efforts. 📋 Establish a clear file labeling and storage system for easy retrieval. 📋 Implement a structured file storage plan like Tiago Forte’s PARA system or customize one for your team. 📋 Ensure easy access to active projects and quick retrieval of old reference materials to boost productivity. 📋 Extended file hunting = wasted time! The Maintenance: 🗂️ Designate team members for regular file reviews and clean-ups to maintain an organized database. Just 15 minutes can make a huge difference! 🗂️ Allocate time for weekly file maintenance tasks to prevent clutter and confusion. 🗂️ Develop templates for recurring tasks and meetings to streamline workflows and improve consistency. Efficient maintenance practices not only enhance workflow but also contribute to overall productivity. Embracing a culture of maintenance can be a game-changer in optimizing office operations. #MaintenanceCulture #EfficiencyTips #KnowledgeManagement #VeteranSkills Photo courtesy of DVIDsHub

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All creative ideas must eventually become executable, affordable, timely contracts with meaningful, measurable outcomes.

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Boeing versus SpaceX -"Space Programs"🚀✨ Boeing: The Traditional Hierarchy-based Giant 🌵⚓💣 ❌Hierarchy and Price-Driven: Boeing adheres to a traditional corporate hierarchy. Decision-making often follows a top-down approach, emphasizing cost-effectiveness. ❌Neoliberal Influence: Over time, Boeing has become somewhat entrenched in a neoliberal mindset, prioritizing bonsus, profit margins and shareholder value. ❌Commercial Crew Program: Boeing’s participation in the commercial crew program was marked by challenges. Despite setbacks, it managed to complete the project many years later. ❌Structural Inefficiency: Critics argue that Boeing’s organizational structure and outsourcing led to inefficiencies, hindering its ability to adapt swiftly and problem-solve to achieve capability SpaceX: The Dynamic Innovator 🚀✨ ✅Culture of Learning: SpaceX fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Employees are encouraged to explore, experiment, and acquire new skills. ✅In-House Expertise: Rather than relying solely on external contractors, SpaceX invests in its in-house talent. This approach enables rapid problem-solving. ✅Creative Design Philosophies: SpaceX embraces unconventional design philosophies, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. ✅Open Communication: Communication channels are open, allowing ideas to flow freely. Elon Musk’s leadership style encourages transparency. In summary, while Boeing’s journey was marked by structural inefficiencies, SpaceX’s dynamic approach propelled it forward. The surprise isn’t that Boeing faced challenges - it’s that it completed the commercial crew program despite them ! 🐘🕸🧩🔬🔍🕵 https://lnkd.in/gbNuH-b9? #Boeing #SpaceX #SpacePrograms #OrganisationStructures #Purpose #Vision #Culture #Capability #ProjectManagement #TimeLines #Safety #OutSourcing #Competence #QualityAssurance #CoverUps #Accountability #Ethics #LeadershipMatters #FutureofWork

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If you really think inflation is ~3% then please unfollow me because we don't exist in same dimension and I have not interacted with otherworldly entities since playing Oujia Board at my friend Tim's birthday sleepover in 1983 👻 I don’t know why politicians and media gaslight people about stuff like this. People trust their grocery bill far more than some guy they don’t know on TV. I literally took an item off the grocery bill yesterday because when it rang up I was shocked at the price. Idea: It would be 10x smarter to say “I’ve noticed this huge problem, you must have noticed it too. Here's our plan to fix it" But noooo... CBS NEWS: "Two-thirds of voters think the economy was better under President Trump!" CONGRESSMAN HAKEEM JEFFRIES: "That's just not the case." Uhm, yes. Yes it is, in fact, the case! The Gov says current inflation rate is 3.4% However... this is the rate prices are increasing, except prices are 22% higher than 4 years ago. 3.4% in 2020 was a $8.71 increase in prices. 3.4% in 2024 is a $10.65 increase in prices. The same number is 22% worse today. Fact✅: 8.9% of credit card balances and 7.9% of auto loan balances transitioned into delinquency in Q12024, per the NYFed. Fact✅: About 121,000 consumers had a bankruptcy notation added to their credit reports in 2024Q1, more than in the previous quarter. Fact✅: What is the percent increase on housing? A 30 year mortgage on an entry level house. The monthly payment has basically doubled, about 100% !! Fact✅: CPI is close to being fake propaganda. Look up the official government inflation calculation for 1982. Food & energy now striped out to hide 📈 (Fyi, you can thank President Ford for this report today. He's the one who filled the SPR) Fact✅: In the last month, the price of canned coffee 13-20oz in the USA has risen by 27 percent. This price increase is now being excluded from the official inflation calculation. Anecdotally, I would say on average all food items we personally purchase at home are up a solid 20% (minimum). Also our car insurance, despite no claims, has steadily gone up each year over the last 4 years and is now close to DOUBLE. Similarly our business liability and property insurance has risen each year. Also now DOUBLE what it was 4 years ago. Most cutting tools, drill, inserts etc are 20%-50% more expensive. Where does it end? Advice: Expect it to continue or even get worse. The only thing you can do is SELL MORE. Simple example... -- Assume a #smallbusiness currently has annual costs of $1,000,000. -- Let's assume an average annual inflation rate of 4% over the next 4 years. (4% 👈🤡🤣😂) -- let's also assume typical small biz current net profit margin is 10%. I'll spare you the math but give these assumptions, you would need to increase sales by approx 17% over next 4 years just to maintain the same profit margin. Better get selling y'all! #sales #manufacturing #supplychain

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Boeing CEO's tenure was filled with substandard performance and a host of safety and quality control failures. Under his leadership stock performance fell 45%, as he exits he stands to receive a 45% pay increase with a $32.8M pay package. This situation ignites outrage amongst employees, investors, consumers, and some lawmakers. Do you agree with pay packages such as these when the performance doesn't warrant it? Is this an outdated practice? Read more here! https://lnkd.in/e9ueSJ2u #finance #ExecutiveCompensation #BusinessLeadership

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💰Finance Friday - Vets Edition 💰 The Government can be a major pain in the a$$ to work with. 🤬 The process of getting out of the military can be challenging enough. But if you don’t file a VA claim, you can be literally be screwing yourself and your Family out of potentially a million(s) dollars. 😱 Here there’s the numbers per month (rounded, no dependents). 30% - $525 50% - $1075 80% - $1995 100% - $3740 At 80% from age 40 to 80 years old. $1995 x 12 months = $23,940 $23,940 x 40 years = $956,700 Oh and there are other benefits like potential medical and educational benefits too. You’re not a doctor, don’t self diagnose. I’ve never met someone who wasn’t injured to some degree in their 4-40 years in the military. 🤕 Find someone to help you file (qualified VSO, it’s free!). 🤝 Ideally, file under BDD (Benefits Delivery at Discharge) so you aren’t waiting forever. The picture below in the 2 huge stacks of medical docs it took me months to get. Start early, be relentlessly persistent! Dennis L. #financialfriday #friday #money #retirement #VA #claims #benefits #medical #transitioningmilitary #militarytransition

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