KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The 403rd Maintenance Group is looking for a deserving Airman who wants to advance their career by way of becoming a maintenance officer.
A commissioning board will be held Jan. 9 for a 21AX Aircraft Maintenance Officer.
As defined by the 21AX Career Field Education and Training Plan, the AMO’s job description is as follows: Leads, trains, and equips personnel supporting aerospace equipment sustainment and operations. Manages maintenance and modification of aircraft and associated equipment. Administers aircraft maintenance programs and resources. Directs aircraft maintenance production, staff activity, and related materiel programs. Assesses unit capability and advises senior leadership.
While the CFETP is the official Air Force description, there is always more to a position than that.
2nd Lt. Tyler Wiggins, current executive officer for the 403rd MXG and former enlisted maintainer for 13 years, said a position like this, while rewarding, requires thick skin.
“Being a maintenance officer is a lot different than a lot of other career-fields,” said Wiggins. “You come into it and you’re immediately responsible for 150-200 Airmen. You need to know everything that is going on, so that you can communicate with the commander, because at the end of the day, you will be held accountable for what is going on. ”
As challenging as it is, the silver lining in maintenance is the level of camaraderie, said Wiggins.
As far as the process of going in front of the commissioning board and earning the position, Wiggins’ most stressed tip was to prepare.
“They will ask you questions you’ve already been given, so it’s important to be ready to answer any of them,” said Wiggins. “They’re looking to see if you’re confident and prepared in your answer.”
He said the biggest thing is to know why you want the position, and that they are looking for a genuine answer, not something you think they are looking to hear.
The position is open to commissioned and enlisted individuals, and prior maintenance experience is not required.
“The reward is worth it when you have a whole fleet of aircraft and people, and you experience the pride of seeing the aircraft actually get off the ground to go do the mission,” said Wiggins. “When you can ensure your Airmen have everything they need to get the mission done, it’s huge. It’s a challenge but it is definitely worth it.”
Packages are due no later than Dec. 6. For more information on requirements, contact Wiggins at 228-377-4089 or tyler.wiggins.4@us.af.mil.