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ATP Leadership Team
Knowledgeable technicians saves clients time & money
Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry, Inc. was founded in 2007 to meet a growing need for expert pyrometry services. The executive leadership team of ATP has more than 100 years of combined service in the field of pyrometry. The core of ATP is providing quality service, with knowledgeable technicians, with an eye on cost effective measures that save our clients time and money.
Meet Our Team
Leadership Team:
Andrew Bassett
President
Andrew brings over 30 years of extensive experience in the field of calibrations, temperature uniformity surveys, system accuracy testing, and a remarkable expertise in pressure, humidity, and vacuum measurement calibration. As the founder of Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry, Andrew has made significant contributions to the industry.
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Prior to establishing his own venture, Andrew held esteemed positions, including Vice President of Pyrometry Services and Director of Pyrometry Services for a large commercial heat treater. Additionally, he served as Vice President and Quality Control Manager for a small family-owned business, where he honed his leadership and management skills.
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At Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry, Andrew fulfills a range of responsibilities, including maintaining an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited quality system, sales and marketing, conducting on-site calibration and testing of customer equipment, and actively participating in customers' Nadcap audits to provide valuable insights and resolve any queries that may arise.
To stay at the forefront of industry trends and ensure compliance, Andrew remains actively engaged with organizations such as Nadcap and AMEC (Aerospace Metals Engineering Committee). This dedication enables him to stay informed about the latest specification changes necessary to meet industry standards.
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Andrew's unwavering focus is client satisfaction. He achieves this by actively listening to clients' concerns and needs, thoroughly familiarizing himself with their equipment, processes, and requirements. This comprehensive understanding allows him to determine the optimal approach for delivering services that meet customer and industry specifications.
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With an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, Andrew consistently brings a fresh perspective to calibration and testing practices. Through his actions, service, and expertise, he strives to elevate industry standards and redefine the benchmarks for excellence.
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Andrew earned his Bachelor of Science in Communications from Davis & Elkins College in Elkins, West Virginia. He is an esteemed member of AMEC, SAE, and ASM International, actively contributing to professional communities and fostering knowledge exchange.
Tom Zimmerman
Vice President of Operations
With an impressive 25 years of experience in the Aerospace industry, Tom has held numerous pivotal positions that have contributed to his extensive knowledge and expertise. Notably, Tom boasts 18 years of expert Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) experience, making him a highly sought-after professional in the field.
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Tom currently holds a Penetrant Level III certification, demonstrating his mastery of the discipline. Additionally, he possesses comprehensive knowledge in Magnetic Particle and Radiography inspections. Tom's remarkable proficiency has been recognized through the successful completion of multiple Nadcap NDT audits across three critical disciplines: FPI (Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection), MPI (Magnetic Particle Inspection), and X-RAY.
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Throughout his career in the aerospace industry, Tom has held various positions, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. His roles have encompassed Manual Machinist, CNC Machinist, Tube Bender, Quality Supervisor, and Quality Manager, highlighting his comprehensive understanding of diverse operational aspects.
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Presently, Tom serves as the Vice President of Operations at Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry, overseeing the Northeast Division located in the Hartford, CT area. In this key leadership role, he effectively manages operations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, and New York. Tom's remarkable management skills and industry expertise contribute significantly to the success and growth of the organization.
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Beyond his responsibilities at Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry, Tom offers his profound expertise in NDT as a highly sought-after consultant. He has developed tailored NDT programs for numerous clients, further showcasing his commitment to delivering exceptional results and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Colin Thomas
Heat Treat / Nadcap Consultant
With more than 30 years of professional experience, Colin has in-depth knowledge of all major aerospace heat treating systems and processes. He has extensive experience with research, development and introduction of high temperature materials for gas turbine airfoil manufacture. He successfully led process ownership teams involved with establishing best practices for vacuum heat treatment processes across multiple domestic and international manufacturing sites.
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Colin holds a B.S. degree in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Manchester, England. Upon completion of his studies, he joined Howmet Corporation, a world leader in superalloy and titanium alloy investment casting production, working in the areas of advanced material development and manufacturing processes. From 1982 through 2002 he held various engineering leadership, technology management and process ownership positions within Howmet Corporation.
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Colin has been a special process heat treat auditor for Performance Review Institute from 2002 to 2013 with more than 250 successful Nadcap audits. During that time he encountered many diverse heat treatment practices and used his knowledge to identify critical non-compliance issues relative to heat treatment, materials testing and quality systems. He has cultivated strong interpersonal skills and fostered positive working relationships with many aerospace heat treatment suppliers.
Dante Molle
Chief Information Officer
Dante joined ATP in August 2014 as the Certifications Officer. Initially responsible for reviewing ATP certifications and test reports, he quickly transitioned into a leadership role within the organization. Currently, Dante spearheads the development team, overseeing the design and implementation of Aerospace Compliance Software, a cutting-edge program tailored to meet all pyrometry needs with utmost efficiency and accuracy.
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In addition to his role in software development, Dante continues to lead a team of dedicated certification officers, ensuring that ATP's clientele receive their certifications promptly and flawlessly. His commitment to precision and timeliness has established him as a key driver of customer satisfaction.
Dante holds a degree from Lehigh University, where he earned his M.Ed in Secondary Education with a focus in Mathematics. Prior to that, during his academic journey at York College of Pennsylvania, he demonstrated his intellectual prowess as the Assistant Editor of Cryptologia—an esteemed academic journal focusing on cryptology. Dante's passion for mathematics led him to complete a B.S. in mathematics at York College, setting the foundation for his expertise in data analysis and problem-solving.
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Outside of his work at ATP, Dante has made valuable contributions as an instructor for cryptology courses at the prestigious Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth. By sharing his knowledge and fostering a passion for cryptology, he inspires and guides aspiring minds in their pursuit of excellence.
Russell McFadden
Director of Solutions Engineering
Russell is heavily focused on designing and building Aerospace Compliance Software, architecting cloud solutions, and setting development standards for ATP. His journey into the heat treat industry began as a contractor for ATP while building ACS. After dedicating over two years to ACS and ramping up on industry knowledge, Russell fully immersed himself in the field by joining Aerospace, Testing & Pyrometry as a full-time employee at the start of 2024.
Dale T. Praznik
Calibration Lab / Quality Manager
Dale, Calibration Lab/Quality Manager, brings over 35 years experience and expertise related to in-house calibration of field test and secondary standard instruments to our new Pyrometric Metrology Calibration Lab in Bedford, Ohio.
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Dale manages and maintains our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited calibration lab to assure your secondary standard and field test pyrometric test equipment is calibrated and repaired to meet the demanding requirements of aerospace specifications, particularly AMS 2750.
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Prior to joining the team at ATP, Dale held multiple management positions related to Quality Management Systems, Thermocouple Calibration, Temperature Instrumentation Repair and Calibration and IT Network Systems for a major Industrial Thermocouple Manufacturer.
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Dale is a member of ASTM International (Committee E20 on Temperature Measurement) and ASM International.
Division Managers:
Southern Division Manager
Pat Ford
Pat Ford joined Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry (ATP) in 2020, bringing a wealth of experience in maintenance positions, including his tenure at AmeriStar. With a strong background in waste water management and a certificate in heat and air, Pat has developed a diverse skill set that adds tremendous value to his role at ATP.
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In his current capacity as the manager of the southern division, Pat is responsible for overseeing pyrometry services provided to clients in the region. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his dedication to assisting clients with audit preparedness, ensuring they meet and exceed industry standards. Pat's expertise and meticulous attention to detail have helped numerous clients navigate the complexities of audits and maintain compliance.
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Throughout his career, Pat has demonstrated a strong aptitude for problem-solving and has effectively leveraged his knowledge of waste water management to address complex challenges in the field. This unique expertise sets him apart and allows him to provide innovative solutions and exceptional service to ATP's clients.
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With a solid foundation in heat and air, Pat brings a comprehensive understanding of thermal processing equipment to his role. This knowledge enables him to guide clients and recommend the most suitable pyrometry solutions tailored to their specific needs.
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Pat's dedication, professionalism, and commitment to delivering top-notch services have made him an invaluable asset to ATP. His contributions as the manager of the southern division have been instrumental in the company's growth and success. Clients can rely on Pat's expertise and support to navigate the intricacies of pyrometry services and achieve optimal results.
Michail “TJ” Evans
Southern Division Manager
TJ's journey with Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry (ATP) began in March 2019, following eight years as a skilled Maintenance Technician at a prominent Aerospace Manufacturing Company in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In his role, TJ was responsible for the maintenance of autoclaves, bond and cure ovens, as well as other facilities equipment. It was during his time working with thermal processing equipment that TJ discovered his passion for conducting testing and ensuring their optimal performance.
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With a keen eye for detail and a strong commitment to excellence, TJ consistently strived to maintain the thermal processing equipment at its peak potential. His extensive maintenance background provided him with the expertise needed to address and rectify any issues that arose, making him a valuable asset to the company.
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Joining ATP was a natural fit for TJ, given his experience with thermal processing equipment and his aptitude for problem-solving. His vast maintenance experience and his passion for ensuring equipment functionality align perfectly with ATP's mission of delivering top-quality Pyrometry services to clients in the Southern Division.
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Covering territories in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Arkansas, and Missouri, TJ is well-positioned to serve clients in the region. His dedication to client satisfaction, coupled with his technical skills and extensive knowledge of thermal processing equipment, enables him to provide exceptional service and support. TJ's ability to identify and resolve problems efficiently contributes to the seamless operations of clients' equipment, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
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TJ's hands-on experience and passion for the field, make him an invaluable member of the ATP team. Clients can rely on his dedication to deliver outstanding Pyrometry services, helping them achieve their goals and compliance in their thermal processing operations.
Chris Evans
Mid-West Division Manager
Chris holds a degree in Business Management. With over 13 years of experience at Sherwin-Williams, he honed his management skills and developed a deep understanding of operations and customer service. His dedication and leadership led him to excel as a Store Manager with Sherwin-Williams.
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Chris, joined ATP and contributed significantly to the company's success. With his extensive management experience, a degree in Business Management, and a knack for finding innovative solutions, he has become an invaluable asset to the Southern Division.
Matt Boldman
Mid-West Division Manager
With a solid eight-year tenure in the aerospace industry, Matt has steadily progressed through various roles, amassing invaluable experience. Starting as a heat treat operator, he quickly rose to become the process owner of the heat treat and brazing department at one of Standard Aero's facilities.
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Based in Ohio, Matt brings a wealth of experience in performing pyrometry services and developing processes aligned with NADCAP and leading aerospace primes, such as, GE and Pratt & Whitney. His dedication to excellence has earned him customer certifications including DQR, CHTR, and CLCSR for Pratt & Whitney, as well as GE's DSQR. These certifications testify to his comprehensive knowledge and proficiency in meeting stringent industry standards.
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Beyond his technical expertise, Matt also excels in managing calibration systems and developing quality processes in compliance with NADCAP standards for non-conventional machining, NDT, and welding. His well-rounded skill set has been honed through hands-on experience and a commitment to maintaining the highest level of quality in all facets of his work.
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Matt's exceptional background in the aerospace industry perfectly aligns with ATP's business model. His proficiency adds significant strength to ATP as a distinguished leader in the aerospace service industry. With his comprehensive skill set and unwavering dedication to excellence, Matt contributes to ATP's continued success and solidifies its position as a trusted provider in the heat treat sector.
Richard Rasmussen
Southeast Division Manager
Richard brings nearly 20 years of invaluable experience in the heat treating field to Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry (ATP). His diverse background encompasses roles as a Pyrometry technician, furnace operator, and a qualified FAA hardness inspector, making him a well-rounded professional with a deep understanding of various facets of the industry.
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During his previous employment at a Nadcap accredited heat treat facility, Richard played a pivotal role in achieving merit status, a testament to his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing all Pyrometry testing and ensuring strict adherence to compliance protocols across the entire range of thermal processing equipment.
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Richard's exceptional troubleshooting skills and problem-solving abilities set him apart. With an innate aptitude for resolving issues related to heat treating furnaces, he has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to resolving challenges efficiently and effectively. His comprehensive knowledge of AMS-2750 and prime aerospace Pyrometry specifications further bolsters his expertise and enables him to navigate complex requirements with ease.
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Having gained pyrometry audit experience, Richard is well-versed in the intricacies of audits and possesses a keen understanding of the critical factors that drive success in the heat treating industry. His attention to detail and meticulous approach contribute to the seamless execution of audits, ensuring compliance and exceeding client expectations.
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With his profound understanding of the industry, Richard is a valuable asset to ATP. His dedication to upholding the highest standards, combined with his technical expertise, positions him as a trusted partner in delivering exceptional Pyrometry services. Clients can rely on Richard's knowledge, proficiency, and commitment to excellence to meet their unique needs and requirements.
Frank Rapine
Mid-West Division Manager
Joining ATP in 2022, Frank brings with him an impressive 20-year career in the aerospace industry, marked by continuous growth and specialization. Starting as a skilled heat treat operator, Frank quickly advanced into the realm of quality control, where he developed expertise in hardness, conductivity, and tensile testing.
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Driven by a passion for knowledge, Frank transitioned into Pyrometry in 2013, assuming a pivotal role in maintaining NADCAP accreditation for one of the largest heat treaters on the east coast. His dedication and contributions in this capacity have been instrumental in upholding industry standards and ensuring operational excellence.
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Notably, Frank's experience spans a wide range of equipment, further augmenting his technical proficiency. Additionally, his familiarity with AMS2750, adds an unparalleled level of expertise to the ATP team. Frank's deep understanding of this standard enables him to navigate complex challenges with precision and effectiveness.
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With his extensive experience, technical skills, and commitment to industry standards, Frank greatly enhances the ATP team. His multifaceted skill set and unwavering dedication position him as a valuable asset, ensuring the delivery of exceptional service and expertise to ATP's clients.
Anthony Gomez
West Coast Division Manager
Anthony brings a wealth of expertise to Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry (ATP) with his combined 14-year background in aerospace production facilities. Beginning his career in the Machine Shop as an operator, Anthony quickly expanded his knowledge and skills to include Heat Treat, showcasing his dedication to continuous learning and professional growth.
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Throughout his years of experience, Anthony has gained invaluable hands-on experience in various aspects of Heat Treat operations. From the basics of Heat Treat to overseeing scheduling, purchasing, and equipment maintenance, Anthony has developed a comprehensive understanding of the entire process. His ability to handle diverse responsibilities, including addressing employee shop needs, highlights his versatility and commitment to ensuring smooth operations and employee satisfaction.
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Anthony's contributions to ATP go beyond his operational expertise. He has played a pivotal role in streamlining pyrometry requirements, leveraging his extensive knowledge and experience to enhance efficiency and accuracy in this critical aspect of the industry. His commitment to quality and compliance has been instrumental in achieving numerous NADCAP merit statuses, a testament to his dedication to upholding the highest standards.
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With extensive knowledge of AMS 2750, Anthony is well-equipped to navigate the intricacies of the specification and provide valuable insights into equipment rationalization. His willingness to go the extra mile and support the rationalization process underscores his commitment to optimizing operations and driving efficiency.
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Anthony's multifaceted experience, coupled with his dedication to excellence, make him an invaluable member of the ATP team. His expertise, knowledge, and willingness to contribute to the success of the organization contribute to ATP's reputation as a leader in the Aerospace industry. Clients can rely on Anthony's skills and commitment to deliver exceptional service and support as they navigate the complexities of pyrometry and ensure compliance with industry standards.
John Hollman
West Coast Division Manager
John's tenure with Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry began in June 2020, following three years as a Pyrometry Technician at a Bodycote facility in California. During his time at Bodycote, John successfully performed Pyrometry testing on a wide range of furnaces and ovens, ensuring compliance with industry standards. He also played a crucial role in providing maintenance support for thermal processing equipment and assisting during Nadcap audits, further enhancing his experience.
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Since joining the West Coast Division at Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry, John has proven to be an invaluable asset. His extensive experience and hands-on knowledge have enabled him to seamlessly integrate into the team, making immediate contributions. With his sharp problem-solving skills and in-depth understanding of Pyrometry, John has been pivotal in troubleshooting client equipment that has come close to failing Pyrometry tests. His keen eye for identifying potential issues and his ability to direct maintenance personnel on the necessary corrective actions have been instrumental in ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance.
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John's proficiency extends beyond his technical abilities. His proactive approach, coupled with his exceptional teamwork, has further strengthened the West Coast Division. By leveraging his experience and collaborating effectively with colleagues, he has fostered a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
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With his unwavering dedication and demonstrated expertise, John continues to play a crucial role in Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry's success. His contributions not only meet but exceed client expectations, reinforcing the company's reputation as a leader in the industry.
Ivan Mayorga
West Coast Division Manager
Ivan entered the heat treating industry by joining the world of steam forging and he dedicated his expertise to the furnace control department, where he played a pivotal role in managing a dozen high-temperature furnaces.
In his role, he were responsible for operating, conducting surveys, performing system accuracy tests (SATs), carrying out calibration checks, executing maintenance tasks, and troubleshooting. This level of technical proficiency and attention to detail speaks volumes about his commitment to maintaining the efficiency and safety in the facility.
One aspect that truly sets Ivan apart is his unwavering commitment to customer service. While overseeing furnace operations, he excelled in customer service by effectively managing contractors during essential repairs. This not only showcased his technical skills but also his ability to collaborate and ensure that every project ran smoothly.
Ivan brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role, making them an invaluable asset to ATP. His dedication, technical prowess, and customer-centric approach are a testament to his professional journey, and we're proud to have his on board as a West Coast Division Manager.
Joel Rojas
Southern Division Manager
Joel joined the ATP team in 2023 having never been in the heat treating industry before. He brings a vast skill set to ATP and a desire to learn more about the heat treating industry and the customers he gets to work with.
Russell Little
Mid-Atlantic Division Manager
Russell's journey with Aerospace Testing & Pyrometry began in September 2019, following several years as a skilled Pyrometry Technician at an Aerospace Commercial Heat Treat facility in Georgia. During his time there, he honed his Pyrometry skills, playing a crucial role in the calibration and testing of various thermal processing equipment. His dedication and expertise greatly contributed to the company's achievement of Nadcap Accreditation for Heat Treat, showcasing his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.
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Since joining ATP, Russell has expanded his role and responsibilities, becoming an invaluable asset to the company. He has successfully managed over 30 service accounts spanning Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, and Virginia. Through his diligent efforts, Russell has built strong relationships with his clients, consistently going the extra mile to ensure their testing requirements are met in accordance with industry and prime aerospace Pyrometry standards. His unwavering dedication to client satisfaction is evident in his proactive approach and willingness to provide exceptional service.
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Russell's extensive knowledge and understanding of Pyrometry requirements enable him to deliver accurate and reliable testing services that keep his clients compliant with industry regulations. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to maintaining the highest levels of quality assurance make him a trusted partner for clients seeking Pyrometry expertise.
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Russell's strong work ethic, technical proficiency, and dedication to exceeding client expectations have solidified his position as a valuable asset at ATP. His contributions play a vital role in ensuring client compliance and fostering long-term partnerships. Russell's commitment to delivering exceptional service and his unwavering focus on client success make him an integral part of ATP's mission to provide industry-leading Pyrometry services.