982nd MXS conceives and achieves excellence across base

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Hot sparks are flying at the 982nd Maintenance Squadron instead of multi-million dollar aircraft, but it is their work that helps the rest of their fellow Airmen to aim high.

Working at the Air Force's largest training wing, the 982nd MXS is tasked with producing mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic trainers for Air Force commands across the globe.

"We do that by engineering, designing and fabricating squadron trainers to ensure that the Airmen are ready for today's Air Force mission," said Chester Bridges, 982nd MXS trainer fabrication supervisor.

With capabilities that range from 3-D laser scanning, to fabrication and computer-aided design, the squadron has a sense of pride in what they do for the Air Force mission.

Daniel Demers, 982nd MXS trainer development chief, found the job to be a perfect fit as a recently retired veteran.

"It's something I believe in, to me there's so much value added to it," he said. "It's not just a job... it's just a continuation of my Air Force service-I'm just happy to be able to do it as a civilian," he said.

A large portion of making those trainers is making sure the logistical aspects of the mission are up to par, and it is one that Ed Crenshaw is happy to meet as the squadron's system logistics support flight chief.

When many of the trainers outlive their operational usefulness they can be recycled, relocated to other bases or used as static displays.

"We provide cradle to the grave logistics support for AETC trainers," Crenshaw said.

Patrick Gilbert, a project manager, is part of the squadron's instructional technology unit, which is responsible for computerized training modules across base and the entire Air Force.

Gilbert relies on a passion for the job to keep him motivated and feels like he makes a difference.

"We put it (the training) into perspective from start to finish so students can get it, and the light comes on," he said.

When customers learn from the training modules his shop makes, Gilbert gets a sense of satisfaction.

"It makes you smile, it makes you happy, you know you've done your job," he said.

John Taylor, chief contracting officer representative, makes sure that squadron resources have the appropriate oversight.

"Without contracts, the Air Force does not have assets to train Airmen in order to maintain all of our aviation base assets in the Air Force," he said. "In the Air Force if you have no maintenance, you have no Air Force."

While the 982nd MXS continues to press on in their mission of training and inspiring, there seems to be no shortage of motivated individuals ready to take on the challenging task of educating tomorrow's Airmen.