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Seasoning program takes Airman to the next level

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Peter R. Miller
  • 440th AW/PA
POPE FIELD, N.C. January 21, 2011 --  When the hustle and bustle of basic training and technical training is completed, Air Force Reservists customarily undergo "seasoning" training to solidify newly acquired technical skills with intensive on-the-job training. In the case of Senior Airman Jocelyn Corriveau, a new 440th Airlift Wing Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, this means turning wrenches, inspecting engines and otherwise maintaining the C-130 Hercules aircraft stationed at Pope Field, N.C.

"New crew chiefs build upon what they learn in tech school," said Master Sgt. Richard Bobber, the 440th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron production flight chief. "They learn everything from technical data, airframe specifications, changing tires and  how to conduct detailed aircraft system inspections."

Sergeant Bobber takes each new 3-level trainee in the seasoning program and pairs that person with a 7-level technician who acts as a mentor and trainer, said Sergeant Bobber. The 7-level is able to work with the seasoning trainee one-on-one every day, maintaining continuity for both trainer and trainee.

"The training is going great," said Airman Corriveau. "It would take a very long time for me to earn my 5-level if I only came in two weeks a month. I have been here for five months and I am almost up to the next level."

A crew chief is allowed to work unsupervised once that person has attained a 5-level designation, said Airman Corriveau. She can hardly wait.

"She has a lot of integrity and is willing to learn and grow in responsibility, which makes our job as trainers much easier," said Sergeant Bobber.

"As far as work ethic and attitude, she is outstanding," said Master Sgt. Russell Bell, mentor-in-charge of Airman Corriveau's training. "The first thing we try and instill in every new Airman is attitude and work ethic, and she's got both."

Airman Corriveau, 20-year-old Greensboro, N.C., native,  grew up as a pastor's daughter, moving often. She has lived in Arizona and several communities in North Carolina.

Airman Corriveau may not have grown up as a military brat, but her family is no stranger to the Air Force. Her father served as a crew chief aboard a T-37 Trainer and two of her brothers have enlisted in the Air Force.

One of her father's hobbies sparked Corriveau's interest in aviation, she said.

"My dad owned a twin-engine Cessna while I was growing up," she said. "I would help him work on that, machining parts and doing engine work."
With three brothers she was bound to become a "tom boy", she said.

"It's fun," said Airman Corriveau, "you get covered in grease, but it washes off in the shower. I do not see what the big deal is. There are a few other girls out here who think the same way."

Airman Corriveau hopes to deploy in May 2011. When she returns from deployment, she plans to finish her degree through the Community College of the Air Force and find full-time employment as a commercial aircraft mechanic.

For more information on the 440th Airlift Wing's deployments, training and employment, visit the web site at www.440aw.afrc.af.mil.