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Airmen train to repair aircraft nervous system

  • Published
  • By John Ingle
  • 82 Training Wing Public Affairs
Much like the human body, aircraft in the Air Force's inventory have a "nervous system" that provides an electrical network that puts the aircraft in motion. 

Those responsible for making sure the nervous system of an aircraft are maintained are avionics specialists trained at the 365th Training Squadron. In short, without avionics personnel, Air Force pilots wouldn't be able to get bombs on target. 

"Avionics is the pilot's control and feedback loop," said Lt. Col. Michael Braucher, commander of the 365th TRS. "It lets the pilot know how high he is, how fast he is dropping, his location, which way he is heading and the location of the target." 

Training on the aircraft's nervous system doesn't begin at Sheppard, the colonel said. Airmen in Training complete 39 academic days of electronic principles at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss. The AiT then go to the 365th TRS for specialized training for specific systems or aircraft. Colonel Braucher said this training can last from one to three months. 

Three sections of training comprise the avionics career field at Sheppard: the "back shop;" heavy airframe; and fighter airframe training. 

The "back shop" section, much like a mechanic's garage for avionics, trains Airmen to repair test stations used in repairing avionics equipment removed from aircraft. The Airmen are also trained on repairing equipment themselves. 

Heavy airframe training consists of learning the components of aircraft such as the B-1, B-52, C-17 and C-130. Airmen learn to troubleshoot avionics systems on heavy aircraft, remove the parts and take them to the back shop for repair. 

Training for fighter avionics is similar to that of the heavy airframes. But, the focus is on aircraft such as the F-15, F-16, F-22 and A-10. 

At any given time, more than 500 AiT are training for 11 different Air Force Specialty Codes. The squadron also develops curriculum for 5- and 7-level continuing education curriculum. The squadron is supported by about 200 military members and civilians.