I joined the New Zealand Cadet Force when I was 12. Cadets showed me what Air Force life was about and I have been working on getting in to ever since. I maintained a high level of physical fitness and studied English, maths and physics while at secondary school.
I applied to join the New Zealand Air Force while I was in Year 13. I originally applied to be a pilot, and aircraft mechanic was my second choice. I failed one of the tests for pilot. I think, having been in this job for a while now, I enjoy it more than if I was a pilot.
Essential know-how
Once I completed all the recruitment procedures, the first step was Recruits Course. This three month course introduces you to general service knowledge, bush craft, navigation, firearms, and military tactics. This is followed by a three month basic engineering course. It is both theory and practical.
From there I did my six month aircraft mechanics course. This introduced me to aircraft skin work, hydraulics, fuel systems, landing gear, and environmental. I also learnt about jet engines and day to day maintenance work.
At the end of the aircraft mechanics course I was posted to 6 Squadron to complete my on the job training. 6 Squadron looks after the Sea Sprite helicopters.
I got all this training while being paid.
I do not need to get a student loan. I also like to think that I am helping New Zealand too.
Young people wanting to join the Air Force should study hard at school and keep their fitness up. Play team sports as it helps with the fitness but also develops teamwork and social skills that are really important. I also recommend the New Zealand Cadet Force. It really helped me prepare for a military career in the Air Force.
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For more information, please contact ServiceIQ on 0800 863 693 or email intel@ServiceIQ.org.nz