Dahlen Gardner

Dahlen Gardner is an experienced professional in engineering and operations management with extensive expertise in structural steel and aero-acoustic fabrication. Currently serving as Plant Operations Manager at Vital Link, Inc. since October 2015, Dahlen oversees the design and construction of complex steel structures and jet engine test facilities. Previous roles include Project Engineer for global projects related to the F135 Joint Strike Fighter Program and Turbine Engine Test Cells, as well as Project Manager/Engineer at Thorpe-Sunbelt, Inc., specializing in high-temperature refractory linings. Dahlen also held positions as Engineering Manager for Porta-Kamp International, where work focused on modular buildings for remote oil fields, and as Senior Project Engineer/Consultant at Atec, Inc., contributing to significant military jet engine test cell projects. Dahlen's early career includes a tenure as VP of Engineering and Operations at Vital Link, Inc., leading a structural steel fabrication shop and engineering department. Educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from The University of Texas at San Antonio, completed between 1983 and 1985.