Aaron J Way
Ladson
Summary
Dedicated and mechanically skilled professional with 20 years of experience in the U.S. Air Force managing complex mechanical systems, hydraulics, and heavy equipment. Proven expertise in troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and strict safety compliance. Actively transitioning into the agricultural sector with hands-on experience in livestock management, poultry, and licensed meat processing. Certified in Crane and Forklift operations, bringing a unique blend of heavy machinery proficiency, mechanical aptitude, and agricultural knowledge to farming, dairy, and trade operations.
Results-driven management professional with proven ability to lead teams to success. Strong focus on team collaboration, operational efficiency, and achieving measurable outcomes. Adept at strategic planning, process improvement, and fostering culture of accountability and excellence. Known for adaptability and consistently meeting changing organizational needs.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Manager
Independent Livestock
Ladson, SC
- Livestock Operations: Independently raise and manage poultry (layers) and meat rabbits, overseeing daily feeding, health monitoring, and facility maintenance.
- Meat Processing: Hold specialized licensing for selling meat and processing animals for food; ensure strict adherence to health, hygiene, and agricultural regulations.
- Facility Maintenance: Apply mechanical skills to repair enclosures, optimize water/feed systems, and manage waste.
Ranch Hand (Cattle)
Leroy Burns, Burns Ranch
Floydada, TX
- Livestock Handling: Assisted in daily cattle ranching operations, including herding, feeding, and monitoring herd health.
- General Labor: Maintained ranch infrastructure, operated farm machinery, and supported seasonal operational surges.
Aircraft Maintenance Craftsman (2A571D)
U.S. Air Force
01.2006 - Current
- Mechanical & Trade Skills: Troubleshoot, maintain, and repair complex mechanical, structural, and hydraulic systems. Perform engine run-ups, rigging, and calibration (skills highly transferable to farm equipment, plumbing, and electrical troubleshooting).
- Heavy Machinery Operation: Supervise and execute heavy lifting, jacking, towing, and crash recovery operations in high-stress environments as a Certified Crane and Forklift operator.
- Quality Assurance & Compliance: Interpret technical data and blueprints to diagnose problems. Conduct rigorous inspections to ensure tolerances, clearances, and safe operation. Maintain meticulous documentation of maintenance logs, similar to agricultural compliance and USDA reporting.
- Leadership: Direct flight line operations, supervise maintenance crews, and coordinate daily production schedules. Train personnel on safety, operational checks, and corrosion prevention.
Education
High School Diploma -
Lighthouse Christian Academy
Fayetteville, NC01-2004
Skills
- Agriculture & Livestock
- Trades & Mechanical
- Leadership & Operations
- Animal Husbandry & Handling
- Heavy Equipment (Crane & Forklift)
- Team Supervision & Training
- Meat Processing & Sales
- Hydraulic & Structural Systems
- OSHA & Safety Compliance
- Poultry & Rabbit Farming
- Preventive Maintenance & Repair
- Quality Assurance & Inspections
- Cattle Ranching Operations
- Technical Blueprint Interpretation
- Detailed Record Keeping
- Homesteading Practices
- System Troubleshooting & Rigging
- Production Scheduling
- Decision-making
- Time management
- Team leadership
Certification
- Animal Husbandry & Meat Processing Certificates - USDA / Clemson Univ. SC
- Licensed for Meat Sales & Animal Processing - USDA / Clemson Univ. SC
- Homesteading Coursework - R and R Acres
- Forklift & Crane Operator Certifications - U.S. Air Force / OSHA standard
- Airman Leadership School (PME) - U.S. Air Force
- B-1B Aerospace Maintenance Apprentice/Craftsman - U.S. Air Force
- Safety & Threat Awareness (EOR & C-IED) - U.S. Air Force
Timeline
Aircraft Maintenance Craftsman (2A571D)
U.S. Air Force
01.2006 - Current
Manager
Independent Livestock
Ranch Hand (Cattle)
Leroy Burns, Burns Ranch
High School Diploma -
Lighthouse Christian Academy