David K.
About David K.
David K. serves as the UAS Maintenance and Airworthiness Manager at Zipline in North Carolina, where he has worked since 2020. With a background that includes roles at Amazon and the US Army, he specializes in maintenance procedures and production planning within the aviation sector.
Work at Zipline
David K. has served as the UAS Maintenance and Airworthiness Manager at Zipline since 2020. In this role, he oversees maintenance operations for unmanned aerial systems, ensuring compliance with airworthiness standards. He manages production planning and inventory management at the North Carolina facility. His responsibilities include developing maintenance procedures for both the Unmanned Maintenance Manual and the General Maintenance Manual, contributing to the operational efficiency of the organization.
Previous Experience at Amazon
Before joining Zipline, David K. worked at Amazon in various roles related to unmanned aerial systems. He served as the UAS Maintenance Manager from 2018 to 2020, where he was responsible for overseeing maintenance operations. Prior to that, he held the position of UAS Maintenance Engineer from 2016 to 2018, and UAS Mechanical Engineering Technician from 2015 to 2016. His tenure at Amazon spanned five years, during which he gained extensive experience in UAS maintenance and engineering.
Military Background
David K. has a significant military background, having served in the US Army from 2003 to 2009. He began as an OH-58D Armament/Electrical/Avionics Systems Repairer for two years and then advanced to the role of OH-58D Armament/Electrical/Avionics Systems Supervisor for four years. This experience provided him with a strong foundation in aviation systems and maintenance practices.
Education and Expertise
David K. studied at Western Michigan University, where he earned a B.S. in Aviation Maintenance Technology from 2013 to 2014. His education focused on aeronautics, aviation, and aerospace science and technology. This academic background, combined with his practical experience in the military and various engineering roles, has equipped him with expertise in aviation maintenance and operations.
Contributions to Aviation Technology
David K. has shown a keen interest in integrating new and emerging technologies within aviation operations. His contributions include developing maintenance procedures that enhance operational efficiency and safety. His work in creating the Unmanned Maintenance Manual and the General Maintenance Manual reflects his commitment to advancing maintenance practices in the UAS industry.