A Message from Our Founder & CEO
Every company has a story—ours began with determination, grit, and a deep passion for the aerospace industry. From starting as a trainee on the shop floor to launching De-Comp out of a small home workshop, my journey has been driven by a hands-on understanding of the industry and an unwavering commitment to doing things right.
What began with a few tools and a vision has grown into a trusted name in composites and tooling materials. Along the way, we've stayed true to our core values: Building Relations/friendships, customer committed, passion for purpose and expert service you can count on.
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Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my story and the foundation of De-Comp. I hope it gives you a deeper understanding of who we are—not just as a company, but as people who care deeply about what we do.
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With gratitude,
Frank J. DeSena
Founder & CEO, De-Comp
My Story
My journey in the aerospace industry began in 1966, right after graduating from high school, when I joined McDonnell Douglas in Long Beach, California. I started as a trainee in the bagging area, working with autoclaves and ovens. Not long after, in 1967, I was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War until 1969.
After completing my service, I returned to McDonnell Douglas, this time at their Torrance, CA facility. There, I immersed myself in tooling and composite technologies, eventually earning a leadership role as a lead man. At just 22 years old, I became the youngest foreman in the company—a milestone that reflected my drive and dedication to mastering my craft.
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In 1979, I transitioned into sales, joining Airtech as a sales representative. I traveled extensively across the Southeast, supporting customers in states like Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. That experience deepened my understanding of the industry's needs and further sparked my entrepreneurial spirit.
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In 1984, I accepted a position with Rockwell in Special Operations, where I focused on implementing new programs, integrating advanced tooling technologies, and solving high-level production challenges. It was during this time that I realized I was ready to build something of my own.
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In 1987, alongside my wife, we launched De-Comp—starting right from our home. I stocked materials in my workshop and hit the road as a one-man sales team, offering every product we could source. It was a humble beginning, filled with long drives, late nights, and even the occasional shave in a public restroom before a big meeting.
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In 1989, we acquired our first building in Cleveland, Oklahoma, which has remained De-Comp’s home ever since. By 1991, we were proud to hire our first employee, Dorothy Middleton, and with each passing year, our team, facilities, and capabilities grew. In 1995, we moved into our current building—one that represents decades of hard work, innovation, and a commitment to quality.
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As CEO, I remain hands-on, working closely with the team and customers to solve complex challenges. With over 57 years in aerospace metal bond and composites experience, my ability to diagnose issues and offer expert guidance is unmatched. My leadership is rooted in honesty, service, and a drive to always go above and beyond.
Outside of work, I enjoy nature, good company, and sharing a laugh. A proud veteran, I cherish my time serving in the medical field during the Vietnam War and continue to share my love for composites with anyone eager to learn.
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Looking back, the journey has been anything but easy—but it’s one I’m incredibly proud of. Today, De-Comp stands as a testament to perseverance, integrity, and the belief that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
918-703-0978