372nd TRS, Det 13: The pulse behind first-class maintenance training

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Kenneth Shinn
  • 372nd Training Squadron

Unit: Field Training Detachment 13, 372d Training Squadron

Location: Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada

Mission: Provide Aircraft Maintenance courses to Nellis, Creech, en route, and TDY students

Vision: Provide Field Training and Training Support that makes a lasting difference

The 372nd Training Squadron’s Detachment 13 is comprised of 33 instructors spanning 15 Air Force Specialty Codes.  It is one of the most diverse training detachments in AETC offering 93 maintenance courses on eight weapons systems (A-10, F-15, F-16, F-22, F-35, HH-60, MQ-1, and MQ-9).  They are also home to one of four Air Force AMMO instructors providing munition maintenance training across the globe. The detachment is charged with supporting 11 units across Nellis and Creech Air Force Bases.  “The amount of airpower produced between Nellis and Creech is very impressive and our production data reflects a snapshot of how this capability is supported,” said Production Superintendent, Master Sgt. Carl Busse.  Last calendar year the detachment taught 252 courses which translates into over 16,900 teaching hours and the graduation of 836 Air Force warriors.  To date this year, they have taught 202 courses, 11,300 hours and graduated 572 Airmen.

“The personnel who make up the detachment are just as unique and diverse as the missions they support.  They have made this my favorite assignment,” said Detachment Chief, Senior Master Sgt. Kenneth Kramer.  From a member who has ranked nationally on the Air Force Shooting Team, to members who build race cars, tattoo, run a car detail business, and home brew.  Another responsibility of Detachment 13 includes aircraft trainer development.  As the lead F-15 Trainer Development Team, they are responsible for managing a 68.5 million dollar acquisition program.  The program includes coordinating modifications of maintenance training devices with DoD contractors to ensure the trainers match the evolving capabilities of actual aircraft, in this case F-15C/E Eagles and Strike Eagles.  “As goes Nellis, so goes the Air Force.  Home to the United States Air Force Warfare Center, this base is the central hub where testing, tactics and training are honed.  In essence, Nellis sharpens America’s combat edge and our instructors’ efforts are a true testament to the fear that Airpower brings to the fight,” said Detachment Commander, Capt. Salvador Medrano. The detachment’s hard work was reflected when they earned the 372nd Training Squadron’s Detachment of the Year Award for 2015 and you can expect more great things to come.

 

Det 13…We’re all in!