Technician Trainer - Tornado Aircraft Maintenance Specialist
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
In January 1992 I joined (what was then) British Aerospace, and after initial Tornado AMS training at Warton, Lancashire, I went to Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, in May 1992.For the initial six months I was employed as a Crew Chief on the Tornado, carrying out all first-line duties, and was given the first of many Saudi trainees that I trained during the sixteen years spent in Dhahran as a Technician Trainer.I was then recruited to work in the Mechanical Components Bay. For the next eight years I undertook detailed servicing of Throttle Boxes, Auxiliary Air Intake Doors, Flap and Slat Screwjacks, Arrestor Hook Release units, Crushable Struts and the stripping and re-building of canopies. The Mechanical Components Bay also manned the Wheel and Tyre Bay, where I serviced Tornado Main and Nose Wheels. In 2000 I moved from the Mech Comps Bay to the Tornado Phase Dock Hangar floor. Here, working on various servicing teams, I was involved with HPO1, HPO2 and PE servicing of the Tornado; and in addition Crash Recovery teams.Whilst in Phase Dock I was selected to be part of a special team of dedicated Technician Trainers, concentrating solely on teaching RSAF personnel work techniques whilst on-the-job training. Taking trainees from Skill Level 3 to Skill Level 7. This involved classroom work and preparing lessons, and building a rapport with the Saudis.Latterly I was assigned to work on the support side of the servicing teams, maintaining and providing non-powered Aerospace Ground Equipment. I was selected because of my communication skills and adaptability, which are essential when dealing with different departments. Incorporating teamwork skills with the ability to work on my own initiative and the need to liaise with various sections. I had to be adaptable, self-motivated and able to respond to urgent situations and prioritise tasks.