C-130 Propulsion Mechanic selected for INNERview Published Nov. 5, 2009 By Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga -- INNERview is a special spotlight for members of Team Dobbins who don't always get recognized for the outstanding work they accomplish on the job and outside the gates. If you would like to nominate someone, call 94th Public Affairs at 678-655-5055. Tech. Sgt. Trent Morris Home Town: Marietta, Ga. Years Served in the military: 20 years Unit: 94th Maintenance Squadron Job Title: C-130 Propulsion Mechanic Additional Duty: Ceremonial Honor Guardsman What are your overall job responsibilities as a propulsion mechanic? Our job duties involve the installation, inspection and repair of the engines. We diagnose and troubleshoot engine problems on and off operating aircraft and we disassemble and reassemble engines and propellers and use test equipment to test engine components. I'm also responsible for the inspection and maintenance of the test stand equipment. What attracted you to the maintenance career field? My early plans were to obtain an education in aircraft maintenance and to become a jet mechanic for a commercial airline. What do you most enjoy about your job? My job allows me to see the results of my work first hand. It is especially rewarding when you are engine-run qualified. (Engine-run qualified refers to a formal qualification where the technician is qualified to test the engine at maximum power while it is attached to the aircraft.) What do you find challenging about your job? The challenge is solving the problems that C-130 aircraft engines present on a daily basis. Individual engines do have personalities. Some engines never give you a problem, others consistently present certain problems. What do you enjoy about serving on the Dobbins Honor Guard Team? I enjoy the formal presentation of presenting military honors while serving on a funeral detail. I usually perform Taps on the trumpet when I serve with the honor guard. It is a challenge to find the time to practice. Have you recently deployed? If so, what was your most memorable experience? Yes, I have deployed worldwide. It is a rewarding experience to ensure a C-130 will fly and carry out its mission, especially when it is serving as a medical transport aircraft. You find comfort in knowing that you've made the difference where wounded military members are not delayed in being transported to a designation where they will receive the medical attention that will save their life. What do you enjoy about the Air Force? I enjoy meeting a variety of people and experiencing the various opportunities that the Air Force provides.
