Artisan training a top priority for the SA Air Force
Date: 7 September 2012
By: Cpl Ally Rakoma
On 22 August 2012, 68 Air School hosted a reclassification, commission and passing out parade of the SA Air Force’s newly qualified artisans.
With the implementation of the government’s National Skills Development Strategy artisan training has become a top priority for the South African Air Force. The graduates had complete a three (3) year apprenticeship programme. Their training began at the SA Air Force Gymnasium, followed by an intensive eighteen (18) month training programme at 68 Air School.
The training comprised a school block and workshop phase at the Tshwane South College, followed by Duty A, Technical Training 1 (TT1) and Technical Training 2 (TT2) at 68 Air School, after this they were transferred to the Air Force bases, Aircraft Servicing Units or Squadrons throughout South Africa for a year to under go practical training on different types of aircraft and systems.
Their work includes rebuilding damaged aircraft and the overhaul and rebuilding of major components. They are specialised in a number of unique capabilities, such as aircraft mechanical support, technical support, engineering avionics and reconnaissance functions, electronics and instruments.
Lt Gen Carlo Gagiano, the Chief of the SA Air Force, handed out certificates to all members and declared the course a success. He said it was well planned and executed and thanked the Officer Commanding of 68 Air School, staff members and instructors for their hard work.
Expressing his pride, Lt Gen Gagiano said that the newly reclassified artisans and commissioned engineers represented the next generation that would be taking the SAAF to greater heights.
Congratulating the graduates who did well he said: “You should be rightly proud of yourselves and your achievements. You have achieved what many have failed to do, but this is just the first of many steps that you need to take in your career within the SAAF. From now on, a new journey begins for you”.
Cpl Divan Adams (21) from 22 Squadron Oryx at AFB Ysterplaat was named the best outstanding performance artisan. Speaking to SA Soldier said that he was grateful for the opportunity to serve in the SA Air Force. “I am extremely proud of myself and the people who stood by me through my studies. I want to thank them for their unwavering support. What a privilege it was to be given an opportunity to reach my dream. My hard work has finally paid off”, said Cpl Adams.
His message to those aspiring to follow artisan trades in the SAAF is: “Always put your best foot forward. What you plant now you will harvest later, and make tomorrow a vision of hope”, he proudly said.
Source: Ad Astra Magazine
