Engineering excellence recognised at Yeovilton
Twenty five Air Engineering Technicians (AETs) have celebrated the successful completion of their 23 week Phase 2b training at RNAS Yeovilton as part of a 55 weeks training programme to fully equip them as fully qualified to maintain aircraft technicians.
During the Phase 2b course the trainees undergo 8 weeks of classroom instruction on mechanical and avionic systems, common practices and documentation processes for helicopters. The remaining time is spent on a training squadron where they are introduced to helicopter operations and maintenance practices.
At the parade the new Commanding Officer of RNAS Yeovilton; Commodore Jock Alexander presented each AET with their Qualified to Maintain (QM) Certificate to mark the culmination of a total of 55 weeks training and formally welcomed them to the trained strength of the Fleet Air Arm.
Commodore Jock Alexander said “very well done to you all you have now joined the Fleet Air Arm Family and as the Royal Navy we will look after and encourage you.”
From this outstanding group of Technicians four were chosen to receive a Trophy for their exemplary ability and competence throughout their training. AET Angela Fairbairn (22) the only girl of 25 qualifying technicians received the Lynx Wildcat Maritime Force (LWMF) Trophy for outstanding Royal Naval Ethos, presented by Commander Kevin Fleming – Commanding Officer of LWMF.
Angela at the ceremony with her two and half year old daughter Erin said,” I feel so proud it has been a very long journey as I started my training initially 3 years ago but found out 3 weeks before completion that I was pregnant with Erin. I returned 2 years later determined to qualify so today receiving this award is made all the more special with Erin being here.”
AET Ryan Johnson (19) received the Commando Helicopter Force Trophy for outstanding Royal Naval Ethos, Spirit and Loyalty from Commander Nick Howard, Commando Helicopter Force Commander Air Engineering.
Trophies were kindly donated by Industry Partners. Serco awarded AET Ben Wilson (29) with their Trophy for achieving the best academic results by a SeaKing Helicopter trainee, presented by Mr Stephen Lagadu - Serco Regional Partnership Director (South).
Rolls Royce awarded their trophy to AET Leigh Considine (25), ) for the best results achieved by a Lynx Helicopter trainee, presented by Mr Phil Manning – Rolls Royce Operations Manager (Helicopters).
On completion of their parade the 25 newly qualified technicians, their families, military instructors and VIP guests celebrated their achievements, reflecting on their success over lunch. The day was completed with a visit to the Fleet Air Arm Museum.
Commander Air Engineering, Tom Manson closed the parade by saying “before me I have 25 young men and women that have been recognised for their excellence, they join the trained strength of the Royal Navy and are now officially part of the team. They can work on aircraft that will enable us to delivery capability to wherever it is required protecting our Nations interests.”