Mert Sarıkaya

Responsible for propulsion test operations, engine qualification and operational readiness under extreme polar conditions.

I am responsible for a wide range of manufacturing, prototyping, troubleshooting, testing, and flight line and MRO activities related to military UCAV/UAV platforms. • Performs a variety of diagnostic and mechanical duties on one or more aircraft models involving diagnosis of malfunctions and required disassembly, rework, repair, replacement, reassembly or adjustment of various aircraft systems to prepare the aircraft mechanically for flight test and delivery to customer.

• Landing Gears: Collaborated in the assembly and quality assurance processes, ensuring the proper functioning and structural integrity of landing gear systems. • Bomb Rack Units: Actively participated in the manufacturing and testing of bomb rack units, adhering to stringent safety and performance standards. • Gravity Release Units: Contributed to the assembly and calibration of gravity release units, critical for precise payload deployment. • Performed life tests on electromechanical systems.

• During my internship as an Aerodynamics Research and Development Intern, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a team of experts in developing a fully automated design cycle for aerostructures. Our goal was to create a design cycle that would address specific improvements and needs, such as decreased fuel consumption, extended range and decreased weight.

Executed manufacturing, non-conformity research, and structural repairs for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program within controlled clean room environments ranging from ISO Class 5 to 8, ensuring carbon fiber, aramid, and fiberglass component integrity against MIL-STD and AS9100-aligned quality standards. Manufactured carbon fiber and fiberglass structural components within an ISO Class 7/8 controlled clean room environment under AS9100-aligned aerospace quality protocols.

I was involved in the Lot Time Assembly Program, which encompassed the production and delivery of approximately 652 shipsets per year to support Boeing Aircraft models such as the 737, 747, 767, and 777. • Worked hands-on in the production of aerospace components, actively contributing to the assembly line operations. • Developed skills in assembly techniques, learning the intricacies of building complex systems.

• I actively participated in the production of UH60M and HH series tail cones, tail rotor pylons, and stabilators. It was a rewarding opportunity to work on critical components that play a vital role in helicopter operations. • I gained practical experience in producing various helicopter parts, including cabin, cockpit, tail cones, tail rotor pylons, stabilators, and composite kits for the S-70I and T-70 series. • I followed meticulous manufacturing processes and adhering to strict quality standards.

• Operational, intermediate and depot level periodic maintenance and modernization activities of F-16, F-4, KT-1T, C-160, NF-5 and T-38 aircraft. • Maintenance and repair of hydraulics, pneumatics, avionics, fuel systems and landing gears of C-160, F-4E 2020, F-16, KT-1T, NF-5 and T-38 aircraft. • Periodic maintenance and replacement of General Electric F110, General Electric J79, Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6, Rolls-Royce Tyne, General Electric J-85 engines.

I successfully completed the Aeronautical Technology program at Gazi University with a grade of as a high honor student 3.73/4. • During the program, I gained extensive knowledge and practical skills in airframe mechanics, aircraft maintenance, and related subjects. I explored a wide range of subjects, including gas turbine engines, avionic systems, aircraft systems, and the aerodynamics of flight. • President of the Aviation Research Student Society of Gazi University

At Gazi Vocational and Technical High School, I pursued a specialized field of study in Aircraft Maintenance Technology. My coursework encompassed various topics related to aircraft systems, engines, avionics, and maintenance practices.