MICHAEL HELGESON

Education

Masters

Earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Southern New Hampshire University has equipped me with comprehensive business skills and knowledge, emphasizing strategic leadership and management across various sectors. This rigorous program, designed for real-world applicability, has enhanced my abilities in problem-solving, strategic planning, and effective communication, preparing me for advanced roles in the dynamic field of business. My studies covered key areas such as finance, marketing, ethics, and global business practices, ensuring I am well-prepared to contribute significantly to organizational success and leadership.

Bachelors

Holding a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies with a specialization in Business Administration Essentials from Southern New Hampshire University has provided me with a solid foundation in business principles and practices. This program has equipped me with key insights into business operations, management strategies, and essential administrative functions, enabling me to apply versatile skills across a variety of business contexts. The curriculum's focus on the essentials of business administration, including finance, marketing, and organizational behavior, has prepared me for a diverse range of professional opportunities, ensuring I can contribute effectively to any organization's success.

Skill Set

Quality Assurance and Defense Contract Oversight

As a seasoned Quality Assurance Supervisor at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), I have spearheaded quality assurance efforts across high-profile Acquisition Category I programs totaling over $20 billion. My leadership has been instrumental in:

• Ensuring FAR and DFARS Compliance: Led the oversight of critical defense projects, ensuring stringent compliance with federal regulations, directly contributing to the success and integrity of national defense initiatives.
• Team Leadership and Strategic Management: Managed and inspired quality assurance teams across multiple states, stepping in as acting Quality Director, showcasing my ability to lead, strategize, and execute at the highest levels.
• Driving Continuous Improvement: My analytical prowess and innovative approach to problem-solving have led to significant process enhancements, including a notable improvement in the Javelin program's production ramp-up, highlighting my commitment to excellence and operational efficiency.

Quality Assurance and Aviation Maintenance Contract Oversight

Throughout my tenure at the Aviation Center Logistics Command (ACLC), I distinguished myself as a dedicated Quality Assurance Representative, where I played a pivotal role in:

• Quality Assurance Leadership: Directed comprehensive quality assurance programs for a wide range of aviation assets, including UH-72, AH-64, and OH-58D aircraft, ensuring the highest standards of maintenance and operational readiness.
• Program Development and Implementation: Spearheaded the development and implementation of a critical corrosion control program, showcasing my ability to identify, strategize, and address maintenance challenges proactively.
• Team Management and Training: Led and developed a team of 9 Quality Assurance Specialists, enhancing team capabilities and performance through effective training and leadership, demonstrating my commitment to personnel development and mission success.

Various - Artillery, Aviation, Unconventional Warfare, and Instructor

Throughout my distinguished two-decade career in the U.S. Army, I have demonstrated unwavering dedication and leadership in quality assurance across various capacities, ensuring operational excellence in defense. My military service is characterized by:

• Leadership and Quality Control: As a Platoon Sergeant and Quality Control Supervisor, I exemplified leadership, guiding a platoon towards operational excellence and maintaining the highest quality standards, reflecting my ability to lead by example and ensure mission success.
• Expertise in Aviation Maintenance: My role as a Quality Assurance Supervisor at the Aviation Center Logistics Command allowed me to manage and oversee quality assurance for critical aviation assets, showcasing my specialized knowledge and commitment to maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• Development and Training: My efforts in developing and implementing a comprehensive corrosion control program, along with supervising and training Quality Assurance Specialists, highlight my focus on continuous improvement, skill development, and mentorship, contributing significantly to the Army's operational readiness and efficiency.

US Army Flight School Academics Instructor

During my tenure with the U.S. Army TRADOC at the Army Flight School, I distinguished myself as an Academics Instructor, where I honed my instructional skills and contributed significantly to the development of future military aviation professionals. My experience in this role is underscored by:

• Educational Leadership: Spearheaded academic programs, managing and mentoring a diverse team of 15 civilian and military instructors, emphasizing my capacity for educational leadership and curriculum development in high-stakes environments.
• Curriculum Development: Played a pivotal role in the design and implementation of comprehensive training materials for the OH-58D Kiowa helicopter, demonstrating my ability to create and adapt educational content to meet specific learning objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Instructional Excellence: My commitment to instructional excellence was evident through my innovative teaching strategies, which enhanced learning outcomes and fostered an engaging learning environment, preparing students for successful careers in military aviation.