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Larry Rapsard
Principal Engineer Aircraft Tires at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Professional Background
Larry Rapsard is an accomplished professional with a rich background in aircraft tire engineering and motorcycle chassis systems engineering. With extensive experience in tire design and product support, Larry has been instrumental in the development and qualification of tires for a wide range of applications, from single-engine aircraft to sophisticated business jets and military fighter jets. His strong engineering acumen is complemented by his role as a principal engineer at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, where he continues to make meaningful contributions to the field.
Larry's career has spanned various significant positions, all showcasing his proficiency and expertise in engineering principles. As the Manager of General Aviation Tire Product Support for North America at Goodyear, he was responsible for ensuring the successful deployment and operational reliability of tires used in general aviation. In this role, his initiatives directly impacted customer satisfaction and product reliability through effective product support strategies.
In addition to his specialization in aircraft tires, Larry has significant experience as a Motorcycle Chassis Systems Engineer. His work in this area includes the development of innovative tire and wheel solutions, which have been vital in enhancing motorcycle performance and safety. His expertise encompasses critical engineering practices such as Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA), vehicle dynamics, and project management, emphasizing weight and cost optimization as well as rigorous testing and inspection methodologies.
Education and Achievements
Larry's educational journey laid the foundation for his outstanding engineering career. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, renowned for its engineering programs and innovation. Prior to this, Larry obtained an Associate of Science degree in Engineering Science from Hudson Valley Community College, which equipped him with essential engineering principles and practical skills.
His early education at Guilderland Central High School prepared him for the rigorous academic and professional environments he would encounter later in his studies and career.
Over the years, Larry has been recognized for his contributions to the field of tire engineering by being an active member of several prestigious organizations. He serves on the Aircraft Tire and Rim Association Subcommittee and the SAE A5-C Aircraft Tire Subcommittee, where he collaborates with industry experts to set standards and advance technologies in aircraft tires.
Notable Achievements
Larry Rapsard's achievements are numerous and reflect his dedication to engineering excellence. As the principal engineer at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, he has played a pivotal role in designing and qualifying tires that meet rigorous industry standards. His work has significantly impacted the performance and reliability of many aircraft and motorcycles.
His previous positions at Goodyear — including Manufacturer's Contact Representative Sr. and Aircraft Tire Development Engineer — illustrate his versatility and depth of knowledge within the tire industry. Each position allowed him to expand his competencies, particularly in product support and customer relationship management.
Larry's expertise in DFMEA creation and Development Validation Plan & Report (DVP&R) makes him a valuable resource in the engineering community, particularly when it comes to ensuring products are not only innovative but also safe and reliable for consumers. His thoughtful approach to engineering challenges fosters an environment of enhanced product quality and performance while ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Tags
aircraft tire engineering
tire design
product support management
motorcycle chassis systems
project management
DFMEA
thermodynamics
mechanical engineering
product quality
weight optimization
cost optimization
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