New Scheduling System Streamlines Test and Maintenance Planning

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 66, No. 17 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 September 3, 2019 New scheduling system streamlines test and maintenance planning

By Bradley Hicks AEDC Public Affairs

Ensuring resources such as utilities, facilities and personnel are available to accommodate high-priority test and maintenance projects is essential to the success of the AEDC mission. In an effort to reduce work impacts and delays due to resource unavail- ability and conflicts in testing schedules, a new single master schedule was developed by National Aerospace Solutions. It will improve near- and long-term planning, decision making, efficiency and effectiveness. The Integrated Scheduling Sys- tem, or ISS, is now in use at Arnold Air Force Base and, to a lesser extent, AEDC Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel 9 in White Oak, Maryland, and the National Full-Scale Aerodynamics Complex at Moffett Field in Mountain View, California. The ISS is a set of databases designed to collect project management information for test, repair and investment, and maintenance projects to plan and analyze the most effective way to approach and com- plete these projects. A Pratt & Whitney F100 engine undergoes Accelerated Mission Testing in the AEDC Sea Level Test Cell 3. Resources needed for testing, such as AMT, are loaded into the Integrated Scheduling System, now in use at Arnold Air Force Base, to predict and manage project performance through appropriate integration, de-confliction and optimization, al- See SYSTEM, page 3 lowing AEDC to meet its strategic, operational and tactical priorities. (U.S. Air Force photo) Test System Sustainment Chief brings “big picture” perspective to new role

By Deidre Ortiz rectorate of Logistics at the Pen- the mission – how everything we AEDC Public Affairs tagon in Washington, D.C. There do is all towards that same goal, he was responsible for developing whether you’re civilian, military, Lt. Col. Jeffrey Burdette - as weapons system readiness require- contractor or whatever it is you’re sumed his new role as AEDC Test ments, providing maintenance doing. It all supports the bigger System Sustainment Division policy guidance and disposition picture.” Chief at Arnold Air Force Base on for over 5,400 aircraft across the Burdette’s Air Force career has Aug. 9. But even as he’s getting Total Force. been an interesting journey, espe- acquainted with his surroundings, “All of my work there over the cially in the beginning when he he has a positive outlook and only previous five years helped me get was figuring out exactly what it nice things to say about Arnold. an understanding of how the en- was he wanted to do. “There’s no reason not to love terprise itself functions, how all “I enlisted in the Air Force it,” Burdette said. “Some of the of these singular bases, differing straight out of high school and be- unique capabilities here are really missions and different MAJCOMs gan my career as an aircraft main- exciting to be around and to be a (major commands) come together tainer, loading munitions on F-16 part of. I love the people, love the to support the national defense Fighting Falcons, F-15 Eagles and mission and love the area. So yeah, strategy,” Burdette said. “It really other fighter aircraft,” he said. “I what’s not to love? It definitely gave me a good enterprise view did that for four years on active beats northern Virginia traffic.” of how this all fits together, how duty, got out and joined the Air Lt. Col. Jeffrey Burdette speaks after accepting leadership Burdette comes to AEDC as every airman out on the flight National Guard. of the AEDC Test Systems Sustainment Division during an the previous Deputy Chief of the line and how every civilian work- Assumption of Leadership Ceremony Aug. 9 at Arnold Lake- side Center on Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo Maintenance Division for the Di- ing out in the test center supports See CHIEF, page 4 by Jill Pickett) Facility Support Services II contract awarded AEDC Commander, Col. Jeff First, a bit of a broader back- (PBR), and coming soon, Abili- mand, control, and communica- Geraghty recently provided an ground about how much of our tyOne (A1). tion functions; fire and emergency update on AEDC’s Source Selec- mission is supported by our con- I realize contract changes have services; environmental; safety; tion efforts to the entire - work tracted workforce. Our service significant impacts on our work- occupational and environmental force via email. Below is his mes- acquisition contracts include: force, and I am committed to health; base supply; cargo move- sage sent Aug. 21. Test Operations and Sustainment keeping you informed and work- ment; and vehicle maintenance (TOS), Technical Management ing with our leadership to mini- for AEDC. Work will be per- Team AEDC, and Advisory Services (TMAS), mize these impacts. Below are re- formed primarily at Arnold Air Facility Support Services (FSS), cent services acquisition updates. Force Base, Tennessee, with In a continued effort -to Base Communications and IT FSS II – On Aug. 20 the FSS specific performance at White ward transparency to a work- Services (BCITS), High Speed II contract was awarded to Akima Oak, Maryland, and Moffett force that includes military, / Hypersonics (HS/H) Advisory Intra-Data (AID), LLC. FSS II Field, California. Transition civilian, and contractor Air- and Assistance Services, Preci- is an eight-year, $152 million, will begin Sept. 3, and perfor- men, I want to communicate sion Measurement and Equip- firm-fixed-price contract which mance will begin on Dec. 1. to you the latest information ment Laboratory (PMEL), Per- will provide industrial and test in contract acquisitions. formance Based Restoration security; security services; com- See SUPPORT, page 3 Col. Jeff Geraghty

Know the hazards before Painting a piece of history working from elevated platforms

…Page 2 …Page 2 2 • September 3, 2019

Arnold Air Force Base

Col. Jeffrey Geraghty Commander Jason Austin Chief, Public Affairs

Richard Tighe General Manager, National Aerospace Solutions High Mach Staff: Kathy Gattis, NAS Executive Editor

Jill Pickett NAS Editor High Mach is published by Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- vate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- neering Development Complex (AEDC) or National Aerospace Painting a piece Solutions (NAS), under exclu- sive written contract with NAS at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. of history Everything advertised in this publication will be made Above, AEDC team members Jamie Elam, left, and available for purchase, use Jonathan Finn, apply a fresh coat of paint Aug. 9 or patronage without regard to a TF-30 engine on display in front of the Engine to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital sta- Test Facility at Arnold Air Force Base. The engine, tus, physical handicap, political tested in the ETF in the 1960s, was the first af- affiliation or any other non- terburner turbofan engine. The F-111 Aardvark, a merit factor of the purchaser, multipurpose tactical fighter bomber retired from user or patron. U.S. service in 1996, was powered by two TF-30 The High Mach office is engines, and could fly at supersonic speeds. (U.S. located at 100 Kindel Drive, Air Force photos by Jill Pickett) (This image has Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. been altered by obscuring items for security pur- 37389-1236. Editorial content is edited and prepared by NAS. poses.) Deadline for copy is Wednes- Right, Finn paints part of a TF-30 engine on display day at close of business one in front of the Engine Test Facility, Aug. 9 at Arnold week before publication. Air Force Base. (This image has been altered by This commercial enterprise obscuring a badge for security purposes.) newspaper is an allowable NAS contractor publication for personnel at Arnold AFB. The content of High Mach does not necessarily reflect the views of the Air Force, Arnold Know the hazards before working AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- pearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement of the products or services advertised by the Department of Defense, the from elevated platforms Department of the Air Force, Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or By AEDC Safety vertical lifts. Regardless of are not specified). Select the or pedestrians, or lack of Lakeway Publishers, Inc. complexity, they are typically appropriate type and size of maintenance. For general information about High Mach, call (931) For the month of September, used to provide the worker a AWP based on the intended use. Each year several fatalities 454-5655 or visit www. the safety focus is on following safe, elevated platform from Typical hazards include: and hundreds of injuries arnold.af.mil. correct procedures while which to work. Improper use and structural failure due to result from inattention, lack Use High Mach to market working from aerial work operation can result in fatality or overloading, overturning due of knowledge or skills, or your products and servic- platforms. property damage. to improper operation (i.e., procedural non-compliance es. Contact Renee at 931- Aerial Work Platforms Only trained and certified operation on an inclined or throughout the nation. Most, if 455-4545 or tnadvmgr@ lcs.net. (AWPs) include self-propelled operators shall operate an AWP. unstable surface, driving over not all these types of incidents, elevating work platforms, such Operators shall be certified by obstructions or potholes, lifting can be prevented by following as those with articulating or the employer and must have large or irregular shaped objects the safe work practices identified extendable booms, scissor lifts, valid documentation available. uncontained inside the platform, in this standard. and those with rotating or non- Operators must read and be etc.), electrocution via contact This and other SHE Standards rotating base. Instructions for familiar with the operating and with energized electrical lines, can be found on the AEDC Team using them can be found in safety manual, control functions, collision with objects, vehicles site via the AEDC Safety Site link. the AEDC Safety, Health and safety devices, placards, and Environmental (SHE) Standard warnings specific to each AWP Core Values D6 on Aerial Work Platforms. operated. This standard outlines Prior to operation, inspect • Integrity first the minimum requirements the work area for hazards such • Service before self for the safe use, inspection, as: overhead and ground level • Excellence in all and operation of aerial work obstructions, electrical hazards, we do platforms (AWPs). The overhead crane operations, other standard is applicable to all AWPs and vehicles, conflicting AEDC employees, contractors work operations, pedestrian and and subcontractors. Operator vehicular traffic, slopes, grades, training and certification potholes, unstable surfaces, and Vision requirements are specified. foul weather including wind “NAS delivers the best Aerial work platforms range speeds above manufacturer aerospace testing from complex articulating limits (do not operate above 30 capabilities today and in devices to manually-propelled mph where other instructions the future.” Values • Ethics. We are uncompromising in our Action Line integrity, honesty, and fairness. Smoking Policy • Safety & Health. We are relentless in Team AEDC, keeping people safe from harm, and 1. The following revised Arnold AFB smoking policy is effective immediately and applies to all individuals on I believe in free and open communications we provide a safe and healthy work Arnold AFB. with our Team AEDC employees, and that’s why environment. we have the Action Line available. People can • Security. We are disciplined and vigilant 2. Traditional Tobacco products (e.g. cigars and cigarettes): in protecting sensitive AEDC information a. Smoking is permitted solely in Designated Tobacco Areas (DTAs) identified by designated signage. If no use the Action Line to clear up rumors, ask ques- and ensuring system integrity to support signage exists, smoking is not permitted in that area. It is the responsibility of all smokers to keep DTAs tions, suggest ideas on improvements, enter national security and our customers. clean of cigarette butts. complaints or get other issues off their chests. • Excellence. We thrive on challenge, b. Tobacco use on the Arnold AFB Golf Course is permitted, but discouraged based on the health hazards The Action Line has been expanded to in- accomplishment, and mission success. • Quality. We are passionate about doing of tobacco use and secondhand smoke. No smoking is permitted within 50 feet of golf course buildings clude an option for your ideas, comments, or our work right the first time. except in the approved DTA. suggestions on the AcqDemo personnel sys- • People. We have a mission-focused, c. Smoking in government-owned/leased vehicles is strictly prohibited. Personnel are allowed to smoke in their tem. Simply call the normal x6000 commander’s inclusive workforce who have a diverse personal vehicles at any time; however, at no time will personnel discard cigarette butts outside their vehicle. action line. You will then be prompted to select skill set, are committed to success, option 1 for the Commander’s Action Line or Op- demonstrate innovation and have a can d. For government employees, the fact that a person smokes has no bearing on the number of breaks they do attitude. may take. Breaks should be taken in accordance with the current supervisory and personnel policies that tion 2 for the AcqDemo line. They can access the • Culture. Our team is proud of our diver- afford all employees the same break opportunities consistent with good work practices and accomplish- Action Line via the AEDC intranet home page sity, inclusiveness, and collaborative work ment of the mission. and by calling 454-6000. environment. We are proud of what we do Although the Action Line is always available, and how we do it. 3. Smokeless Tobacco products (e.g. snuff and dip): • Relationships. We build positive, long- Smokeless tobacco products are not to be restricted to DTAs. Smokeless tobacco use will be permitted in all the best and fastest way to get things resolved term business relationships through trust, workplace areas (inside and out) subject to reasonable safety and sanitary conditions. Specifically, containers is by using your chain of command or by con- respect, and collaboration. of tobacco waste product, including sealed containers, must not be left unattended or disposed of in trash tacting the organization directly involved. I en- • Innovation. We overcome challenges courage everyone to go that route first, then if through creativity, perseverance, technol- receptacles. Users of smokeless tobacco must flush tobacco waste down the toilet. ogy, and flexibility. We actively seek to 4. Electronic Cigarettes (also known as “e-cigs”): the situation isn’t made right, give us a chance. continually improve. Pursuant to Air Force Instruction (AFI) 40-102, Tobacco Free Living, e-cigs are considered to be equivalent to • Sustainability. We plan and act for the tobacco products; however, e-cigs are not restricted to DTAs and are allowed to be used outdoors at a minimum Col. Jeffrey Geraghty long term benefit of our communities and distance of 25 feet from building entry/egress points. (This policy is dated July 27, 2016) AEDC Commander our environment. September 3, 2019 • 3

SYSTEM from page 1 “Better planning and sched- Chief Col. Keith Roessig. framework, process inputs and uling will optimize our testing “The dramatic increase in outputs, horizon schedule defi- capability,” said Kevin Chalm- workload demand and change nitions and review cycles has ers, director of Integrated Re- in national priority of the types already been issued and pub- sources with National Aero- of programs AEDC tests re- lished to the Schedule Integra- space Solutions, the AEDC quires a level of integration tion SharePoint. Introductory Test Operations and Sustain- across AEDC test capabilities training on the ISS has been ment contractor. “We’ll be able that has not been required for provided to key stakeholders, to do more. It’s all about when many years,” Roessig said. “It and plans are in place to roll out we hear that whir from the Pro- is imperative that we have an a more detailed system training pulsion Wind Tunnel facility. integrated schedule that can be for project managers and opera- That’s a great sound. When you viewed by all personnel as a tions officers to enhance inputs hear Sea Level Test Cell SL-3, trusted source of information for and outputs. the engines being throttled and the planning and execution of This past May, Air Force se- pulled back, that’s a good sound. test operations, maintenance ac- nior leadership, leaders in the We want to hear those noises tivity and capital improvement Combined Test Forces and those more often than silence. We can projects.” on the integration teams started optimize the testing, have more ISS test and integration is a routine review cycle of data in air-on hours, with better plan- managed by Lt. Col. Charles the ISS. ning and scheduling.” Harding. “The team has made sig- The ISS can also create im- “The ISS certainly has great nificant progress in the last six plementation plans. The system potential,” Harding said. “It has months with issuing the ISS is loaded with mission capabili- great potential to help us better handbook, implementing the ties, capacity and resources for manage and de-conflict shared process to receive CTF inputs numerous projects. The system resources and infrastructure, needed to generate the various then uses this information to which is a big deal here at Ar- horizon schedules, and conduct- predict and manage project per- This graphic helps illustrate the Integrated Scheduling System nold as there are few test cells ing successful horizon reviews formance through appropriate process. The ISS is comprised of the software that allows for that can operate independently. with the Air Force,” said NAS integration, de-confliction and near-, short-, mid- and long-term planning. The ISS, now in Although the ISS can help iden- Project Controls Manager Paula optimization, allowing AEDC use at Arnold Air Force Base, is loaded with mission capabili- tify problems early on, it is only Wynn. “We are committed to to meet its strategic, operational ties, capacity and resources for numerous projects. The sys- as good as what is put in it and is building on this foundation and and tactical priorities. tem uses this information to predict and manage project per- not a substitute for good project continually improving the pro- “There are many compet- formance through appropriate integration, de-confliction and management, nor is it a crystal cess. If we do this right, it should ing interests here at AEDC that optimization, allowing AEDC to meet its strategic, operational ball if things are not put in it at make next fiscal year’s planning and tactical priorities. (Graphic provided) can impact the mission,” said all. more streamlined, empowering NAS Schedule Supervisor Sean we have measured a significant years,” Neary said. “The world- “In the end, the ISS is our ef- all of us to start planning earlier Neary. “Schedule conflicts can increase in identifying the work class professionals in each of the fort to improve how we test at on known priorities.” develop between multiple high- ahead of time and having the mission areas are extremely ef- AEDC with the ultimate goal of Schedules for the 2020 fis- priority test customers. There work ready for our workforce to fective in reacting to near-term improving our warfighters’ -le cal year are in development for are multiple competing users of execute. This is good progress, change as it occurs to ensure thality and being better stewards finalization in mid-September. A utilities such as high-pressure but we have a lot of work yet to advancement of the mission. of the taxpayers’ money.” more refined scheduling struc- air, cooling water and power. do.” To fully implement the mid- to The system has the full sup- ture is also being implemented Facilities require maintenance The ISS, which will be uti- long-range planning with the port of TOS leadership. for the 2020 fiscal year. This that can impact testing. lized by TOS contract employ- ISS requires a forward-looking “The ISS serves as an impor- evolution, which will allow for “Funding alone cannot solve ees, DOD civilians and Air mindset that will ensure that the tant management and planning higher quality ISS outputs by all of these conflicts, so what the Force teams across Arnold, work marches into the near-term tool for NAS,” said NAS Gener- adding more consistency to the ISS process does is it adds time views projects in four distinct in a well-planned, de-conflicted al Manager Dr. Rich Tighe. “We inputs, will be available starting as an additional resource that can time horizons which can be ac- and organized manner. use it to monitor progress on this October. resolve operational restraints cessed by users to serve differ- “This will allow AEDC to key projects, including the proj- “When you have a good plan by finding the best sequence to ent project management needs. maximize mission capability ects we review each Friday dur- and you execute that plan well, perform the priority work. This The first of these, the tactical and provide greater schedule ad- ing the NAS project ‘watch list’ you’re optimizing our testing allows AEDC to maximize test horizon, includes projects up to herence for the test customers.” meeting. The ISS also assists us time here, and that’s a huge ad- time in the most fiscally respon- two weeks out. This horizon is Project management soft- in planning and de-conflicting vantage that we need to give the sible way possible.” used primarily for sequencing ware used in the ISS provides resources – people, equipment Air Force,” Chalmers said. The ISS can also project ad- and de-confliction of near-term the scheduling engine that de- and facilities. I believe the ISS Chalmers said some have equate staffing levels to serve test and outage work. fines the scope of work and has been an asset to the Air voiced concern that the ISS is projects slated to begin weeks, The focus of the short-term predicts future outcomes by de- Force during planning for sum- too complex and adds risk to months and even years in ad- planning horizon, which in- fining activity durations and re- mer turnarounds and other mid- the AEDC program. He said the Know the hazards before working vance. Chalmers said this helps cludes projects up to six months quired sequences for that scope. and long-term projects. We’ve information the ISS is capable give TOS managers a leg up. out, is the integration of oppor- Additional software utilized by made progress toward fully of providing should ease those They can use this information tunistic maintenance work with the system provides the daily implementing the ISS, but we concerns. to line up the completion of priority test and outage work. and hourly work planning and continue to work to refine and “You have to work at it,” the steps necessary to move re- The mid-term planning hori- crew management that allows improve.” Chalmers said. “You have to from elevated platforms sources around, bring the new zon includes projects six months near-term work to be integrated This summer, the ISS served get the whole team used to the hires onboard, and get these to two years out and focuses on at a more granular level. Both as the primary tool used at Ar- battle rhythm of good planning new employees trained and up resource allocation and staffing. software tools require trained nold AFB to integrate Air Force and scheduling, good sched- to speed to get started on the The long-term planning ho- operators to manage. and contractor leadership teams ule reviews and updates. That’s test or maintenance undertaking rizon, which includes projects The development and imple- for turnarounds in the von Kár- necessary to make sure we max- when needed. two to seven years in the future, mentation of the ISS was part mán Gas Dynamics Facility, imize our time testing for our “We have seen an increase in focuses on AEDC capacity and of the National Aerospace So- Engine Test Facility and Propul- customers. the craft work being scheduled, capability. lutions proposal for the TOS sion Wind Tunnel facilities. “If we don’t do it, we won’t which optimizes the productiv- “The work process of plan, contract with AEDC. The sys- Along with the establishment be hearing that good sound of ity of our workforce,” Chalmers de-conflict, test has been in op- tem falls under the leadership of of necessary work processes, the engine in SL-3 or the whir said. “Since September 2018, eration here at AEDC for many AEDC Test Operations Division a handbook that identifies ISS at PWT as often as we want to.”

SUPPORT from page 1 AbilityOne – As communicat- to prepare for this transition, CW formance start anticipated Oct. 1, held in October 2019 and the re- for your dedication to our vitally ed to you in June, CW Resources Resources has begun recruitment 2020. quirements are anticipated to be important mission in national de- is the AbilityOne nonprofit agency efforts. BCITS II – The BCITS II released March 2020. BCITS II fense. My first two days here at servicing Arnold Air Force Base TMAS II – The TMAS II is source selection is also in the very performance is scheduled to begin Gen. Arnold Bunch Jr.’s AFMC and will begin performance Dec. in the early stages of the services early stages of the services acqui- Feb. 1, 2021. Senior Leader Conference have re- 1. CW Resources will perform acquisition process. The Fair Op- sition process. The government It is the AEDC leadership minded me how much is at stake. Arnold’s janitorial, refuse collec- portunity Request for Proposal source selection team at Arnold team’s commitment to keep you We must continue to execute our tion, grounds maintenance, and (FOPR) is anticipated to be re- stood up in June and it is antici- informed as our contract acquisi- mission with professionalism and mail center requirements. In order leased in January 2020 and per- pated that an industry day will be tion efforts proceed. Thank you dedication that is second to none!

Finding flaws with fluorescence Staff Sgt. Efren Va- quera, a 1st Special Operations Mainte- nance Squadron non- destructive inspection specialist, performs a fluorescent-penetrant inspection on an aircraft part at Hurlburt Field, Florida, July 19. Fluorescent penetrants cause extremely small cracks in aircraft parts to become visible under a black light. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Caleb Pavao) 4 • September 3, 2019

CHIEF from page 1 “I immediately knew us all about aviation that leaving active duty and what he did. It was probably wasn’t the pretty cool. It was prob- right decision. In the ably one of things that Air Force, there’s just inspired me to join the a sense of community, Air Force.” welcoming and partner- Now as chief of TSS ship, and everyone work- at Arnold, Burdette is ing together to achieve leading, directing and the mission.” overseeing the mainte- Burdette determined nance and reliability ac- he wanted to return to Air tivities for $11.5 billion Force active duty when in assets that provide attending Embry-Riddle unique national-level Aeronautical University ground and flight test- in Daytona Beach, Flori- ing capabilities for the da, where he received his Department of Defense. bachelor’s and master’s His division is responsi- degrees in professional ble for the operation and aeronautics. While there, sustainment of AEDC he also joined the ROTC research, development, and was commissioned test and evaluation, through that program. aerospace test and test “I was going to school support systems, and de- and I saw the ROTC ca- livering mission-ready dets walking around in systems through asset their uniforms,” he said. management and capital Lt. Col. Jeffrey Burdette, right, new AEDC Test Systems Sustainment Division Chief, speaks with Flight “I was still a member of improvement. Systems Combined Test Force Director Lt. Col. John McShane, center, and Aeropropulsion CTF Director the Air National Guard, “What TSS does is Lt. Col. Lane Haubelt after the TSS Assumption of Leadership Ceremony Aug. 9 at Arnold Air Force Base. I thought, ‘What better enable the test commu- (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) (This image has been altered by obscuring a badge for security pur- way to utilize my edu- nity to be able to execute poses.) cation than to continue their mission,” he said. “We have on one side dustries have ways of the Test Operations Di- team members to know serving on active duty.’ “The infrastructure, ma- of the building state-of- gauging their success, vision and their test cus- that he’s willing and “I was looking at chinery and test equip- the-art digital equipment but admitted it will be a tomers to make sure they ready to help them in jobs I wanted to do in ment that we are run- and on the other side, challenge to determine have the assets available any way he can. the commercial world, ning, much of it dates vacuum tubes and gaug- what those metrics are when they need them “For the people of but I just knew there back to the 1950s. Not es,” he said. “So how do for AEDC. and that the assets have TSS, my main job is to wouldn’t be the right fit that old is bad but old you bridge the gap? You “How do we mea- the capability to achieve support them,” he said. out there. So, I went and is old, and it requires have to find the right sure what we do? I think the test parameters the “I’m a huge follower of saw the ROTC recruiter a lot of work to keep it technician and right en- that’s kind of hard and customers are looking servant leadership. I tru- and signed up - one of up and running. That’s gineers who understand it’s unique to the capa- for. ly believe that my job as the best decisions that I our main objective, to both the digital and the bilities that we have. We “But in the bigger a leader of this organi- made regarding my ca- enable the test commu- vacuum tubes. It’s a can’t look to an Amazon picture for the Air Force, zation, or any organiza- reer going forward.” nities to perform their unique skillset that can or Google and pull what we are ensuring that tion, is to serve the folks He also thanks his mission; to keep the test do both of those. They’re they’re doing. I can ap- we are not only able to within that organization. grandfather for sparking assets up and running unique skillsets on their ply some of it, but what maintain the capabilities I work for them, they his interest in aeronau- to support the customer own, you combine them other industrial corpo- of today, but that we’re don’t work for me. It is tics. for both today and im- and it’s a rarity. rations are out there keeping this installation my role to clear obsta- “My grandfather was proving capabilities for “But also, as unique running wind tunnels relevant to ensure that cles out of their way, to in the Army Air Corps in the future; ensuring that as we are, where can we or some of the other fa- we build the capabilities empower them to make World War II as a radio the test assets that they build upon commercial cilities that we have? that we need for tomor- decisions. I’m not going mechanic on B-24s (Lib- need for tomorrow will best practices in similar There’s not much to row,” he said. “As the to tell them how to do erator) stationed at Max- be available when they industries? Where can compare it to.” Air Force looks towards their job. They’ll tell me well Air Force Base (Al- need them.” we look at successful However, Burdette space, hypersonics and what their problems are abama) during the war,” In order to achieve corporations and build will be taking strides to beyond, we have to en- and let me fix those. My Burdette said. “He lived this, Burdette said it’s his upon the lessons that get answers to some of sure that we have the goal is to serve the folks in Dayton, Ohio, not far obligation to empower his they’ve already learned? these questions because capabilities to help in- of TSS, to make sure from the Air Force Mu- team to make the right What metrics can we he knows how important fluence that research and they have the tools, the seum, so he loved taking decisions and make sure use?” the product of AEDC is development.” equipment, the training us to visit the Air Force they have what they need Burdette explained to national defense. Most importantly, that they need to per- Museum and showing to execute the mission. that all successful in- “In TSS, we support Burdette also wants his form their duties.” September 3, 2019 • 5 SMC works with government, industry partners in successful launch of GPS III SV 2 satellite

By SMC Public Affairs

LOS ANGELES AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) – The Air Force and its mission partners successfully launched the second GPS III satellite at 9:06 a.m. EDT, Aug. 22 from Space Launch Com- plex-37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Sta- tion, Florida. The Lockheed Martin-built satellite, named “Magellan” after the Portuguese navigator who led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe, was carried to orbit aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV launch vehicle in its final flight. The Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center, home to a vanguard of satellite acquisition professionals and the nation’s launch procurer of choice, was responsible for Magellan’s rigorous mission assurance certifications and testing leading to full launch and mission-readiness. SMC also conducted a rigorous source selection to ensure the ULA Delta IV rocket met all mission requirements, which included examining every single piece of hardware that built the rocket. This enabled the satellite to reach orbit and meet civilian and warfighter commu- nication needs. “A successful launch like today’s is A Delta IV carrying the GPS III SV2 satellite lifts off from Space Launch Complex-37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, always a proud moment for the team and Florida, Aug. 22. The satellite will become part of a 31 satellite constellation on-orbit, providing enhanced timing and navigation to civilians and the warfighter.(United Launch Alliance courtesy photo) its many members,” said Lt. Gen. John F. Thompson, SMC commander and facility will now begin on-orbit checkout spacecraft and will be the 21st M-Code- gundo, California, leads the GPS III Ma- Air Force program executive officer for and tests, which are estimated to com- capable satellite added to the fleet. GPS gellan team. SMC’s Launch Enterprise space. “I can’t reiterate how important plete in one month. Operational use is satellites operate in medium Earth orbit at led the launch, which took place at Cape this second GPS III launch is as we prog- expected to begin within a year. an altitude of approximately 12,550 miles Canaveral Air Force Station. Lockheed ress toward a modernized fleet and main- “This launch was seven months in the (20,200 kilometers) in six planes. Each Martin Space Systems Corporation is the tain U.S. superiority in space. The launch making,” said Col. Edward Byrne, Me- satellite circles the Earth twice per day, prime satellite vehicle contractor. Air Force of Magellan epitomizes the constant col- dium Earth Orbit spacecraft production providing the “gold standard” of position, Space Command’s 50th Space Wing and laborative efforts which exemplify the division chief. “As soon as we launched navigation and timing services for billions 2nd Space Operations Squadron operate continual improvements our teams at Vespucci last December, the team got to of users worldwide. GPS III, the newest the GPS constellation from Schriever Air SMC are making in getting these satel- work on the SV02 campaign to get Ma- generation of GPS satellites, brings new Force Base, Colorado. lites built and launched at epic speed. gellan into orbit. This isn’t the end of our capabilities to users, including three times SMC is the Air Force's Center of Acqui- With a third GPS launch planned for the job with Magellan. We now have to carry greater accuracy and up to eight times im- sition Excellence for acquiring and devel- end of the year, we continue to provide out on-orbit checkouts, in parallel with proved anti-jamming capabilities. oping military space systems. Its portfolio the ‘gold standard’ in positioning, navi- preparations to launch SV03, not to men- “Having launched a GPS III satellite in includes GPS, military satellite communi- gation and timing services for our mili- tion the continual production effort of December 2018 aboard a Falcon 9 and now cations, defense meteorological satellites, tary and for the world.” SV04. That is why the production corps today on a Delta IV, the team demonstrated space launch and range systems, satellite GPS III’s Magellan separated from space vehicles division is known as the again their commitment and capability to control network, space-based infrared sys- its upper stage approximately 1 hour, 56 ‘A-Team.’” achieve 100% mission success,” said Col. tems and space situational awareness capa- minutes after launch. Engineers and op- Magellan will join the current GPS Robert Bongiovi, Launch Enterprise direc- bilities. erators at Lockheed Martin’s Waterton constellation comprised of 31 operational tor. With Another launch of GPS III planned SMC’s Production Corps, located later this year, SMC will continue to sup- at Los Angeles Air Force Base in El Se- port U.S. superiority in space at epic speed. 6 • September 3, 2019 Air Force Research Laboratory successfully conducts first flight of ROBOpilot Unmanned Air Platform

By 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – The Air Force Research Laboratory and DZYNE Technologies Incorporated successfully completed a two-hour initial flight of a revolution- ary Robotic Pilot Unmanned Conversion Program called ROBOpilot Aug. 9 at Dugway Proving Ground in Utah. “This flight test is a testament to AF- RL’s ability to rapidly innovate technology from concept to application in a safe build up approach while still maintaining low cost and short timelines,” said Maj. Gen. William Cooley, AFRL Command- er. “Imagine being able to rapidly and affordably convert a general aviation aircraft, like a Cessna or Piper, into an unmanned aerial vehicle, having it fly a mission autonomously, and then return- ing it back to its original manned con- figuration,” said Dr. Alok Das, Senior Scientist with AFRL’s Center for Rapid Innovation. “All of this is achieved without making permanent modifications to the aircraft.” As the vision for AFRL’s CRI Small A 1968 Cessna 206 with ROBOpilot installed preparing for engine start on the runway at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah. Business Innovative Research project (Courtesy photo) with DZYNE Technologies of Irvine, the development of new unmanned ve- California, ROBOpilot interacts with an hicles,” Das said. aircraft the same way as a human pilot AFRL developed the system using a would. Direct to Phase II SBIR contract. Dur- For example, the system “grabs” the ing the past year, AFRL and DZYNE yoke, pushes on the rudders and brakes, designed, built and tested ROBOpilot. controls the throttle, flips the appropriate Engineers demonstrated the initial con- switches and reads the dashboard gauges cept in a RedBird FMX simulator, a full the same way a pilot does. At the same motion, feature-rich advanced aviation time, the system uses sensors, like GPS training device. ROBOpilot successfully and an Inertial Measurement Unit, for completed simulated autonomous take- situational awareness and information offs, mission navigation and landings in gathering. A computer analyzes these both nominal and off-nominal conditions details to make decisions on how to best in this Federal Aviation Administration- control the flight. certified trainer. ROBOpilot also boasts a simple in- As an early adopter of creating dis- stallation process. Users remove the pi- ruptive innovation through paradigm lot’s seat and install a frame in its place, shifts, AFRL established the Center for which contains all the equipment neces- Rapid Innovation in 2006 to streamline sary to control the aircraft including ac- AFRL’s application of new and existing tuators, electronics, cameras, power sys- technologies to address dynamic chang- tems and a robotic arm. es in air, space, ground, and cyber bat- Das explains that this non-invasive tlespaces and solve evolving and urgent approach to robotically piloted aircraft operational challenges. The execution of leverages existing commercial tech- this unique process uses diverse subject nology and components. ROBOpilot matter expertise and a collaborative gov- A cockpit view of ROBOpilot attached to seat rails with no permanent modifi- incorporates many subsystems and les- ernment-industry technical and manage- cations to the aircraft. (Courtesy photo) sons learned from previous AFRL and ment capability to rapidly develop, test DZYNE Technology aircraft conversion and deploy innovative prototype solu- novative engineering talent for its projects. high-value fleeting targets; counter-impro- programs. tions for dynamic operational environ- Working with teams of innovative small vised explosive device (IED); counter drone “ROBOpilot offers the benefits of ments. businesses, CRI has demonstrated numer- capabilities; and secure on-the-move com- unmanned operations without the com- CRI routinely uses the SBIR program to ous operational successes such as back- munications. Several efforts have even tran- plexity and upfront cost associated with identify both disruptive technology and in- packable, precision strike platforms for sitioned to Air Force Programs of Record. Wounded warrior talks resiliency during tactical pause

By Lauren Russell traumatic stress disorder that only wors- 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs ened over the time it went untreated. “I could tell that something was off HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, with me,” said Rijos. “I just told myself Mass. – A senior noncommissioned of- this comes with the job, that I would ficer haunted for years by the grizzly decompress and I would be fine. I was images of a disastrous aircraft crash choosing not to deal with it.” shared his personal story of resilience With his belief of a negative stigma and recovery with Airmen during a around mental health, Rijos assured training session at the base theater here, himself he had everything under con- Aug. 22. trol but as he progressed in his career, In the wake of Chief of Staff of the he found himself at another roadblock. Air Force Gen. David L. Goldfein’s Re- Losing his father, health issues and siliency Tactical Pause directive, Mas- problems with his new leadership only ter Sgt. Jose E. Rijos, Air Force Wound- added to the weight on his shoulders. ed Warrior Ambassador, recounted the “At this point, the punches were just traumas of his career with his service coming from everywhere,” he said. “I dog, Cairo, at his side. fell into a depression.” Originally a security forces Air- He finally had enough. Rijos sent a man, he began his career at Muñiz Air text message to his wife, telling her he National Guard Base, Puerto Rico. On was going to take his health back into Master Sgt. Jose Rijos, noncommissioned officer in charge of domestic opera- Aug. 7, 2002, the call came in that a his own hands. He drove himself to the tions, Massachusetts Air National Guard and Wounded Warrior ambassador, C-130 had gone down somewhere in closest Veterans Affairs hospital where stands on stage with his service dog Cairo and his wife, Yadira Rijos, at the the mountains. Rijos was assigned to he would stay for the next 21 days, put- Hanscom Air Force Base theater, Aug. 22. Both Wounded Warrior Program am- the recovery team sent into the jungle to ting him on the road to recovery. bassadors, Jose and Yadira spoke on their experiences dealing with post-trau- locate the wreckage. Still having good days and dark days matic stress as a family in hopes to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental “I wasn’t prepared for what we but armed with new resources on how to health. (U.S. Air Force photo by Mark Herlihy) found,” said Rijos, the current senior cope with his trauma, Rijos was able to encourage your buddies to get help, be- se’s wife, caregiver and fellow AFW2 NCO in charge of Domestic Operations, get back to his unit. It was on a dark day cause they just don’t know what to do ambassador. “But [The Wounded War- Massachusetts Air National Guard. that he says he received a call from the with that pain,” said Rijos. “Because rior Program] has the right people to The impact of the crash had killed all Air Force Wounded Warrior Program. some of these guys, when they go, they help.” 10 on board, a crew that Rijos had met Rijos said he didn’t deem himself really go.” Rijos and his family travel from base with just days prior. Fragments of the worthy of help from AFW2 because The AFW2 Program not only pro- to base, sharing their story and ongoing aircraft and everything inside littered to him, his wounds were not as severe vided support to Rijos, but to his fam- battle with PTSD in hopes to dismantle the rainforest floor. as some of his wingmen. His recovery ily as well. With support groups avail- the stigma regarding mental health and “Then the next day, we were back at care coordinator assured him otherwise able for his wife and two daughters, his arm service members with tools to seek work,” he said. “But those images got and told him that he could actually help family was able to build their own tool help if they ever find themselves in a stuck in my head.” other service members struggling with kits on how to navigate the obstacles of hole. Although Rijos didn’t realize it at mental health find their path to recov- trauma. “I want to get back into the fight, and the time, what he endured had laid the ery. “It’s not like PTSD just goes away; I’m not giving up,” said Rijos. “I’m be- foundation of his later-identified post- “Don’t be afraid to reach out and it’s always there,” said Yadira Rijos, Jo- ing made whole again.” September 3, 2019 • 7 8 • September 3, 2019 AFRL tests life-saving tool to add to aeromedical tool kit

By Gina Marie Giardina inside of a very loud cargo Air Force Research Labo- plane such as a C-130 or ratory C-17—while it’s up in the air. WRIGHT-PATTERSON So what happens when AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio medical personnel need – Name this technology. to listen to these internal Medical professionals walk sounds to monitor and treat around with them draped their patients in such deaf- around their necks or ening environments? Up tucked in the pocket of their until recently, they did not white coats. That’s right! A have a tool for this. stethoscope. “Typically when we use Most learn at an early a stethoscope, it just ampli- age how these work—put- fies the sounds within the ting the ear pieces into the patient,” said Charles Hard- ears and placing the small ing, a 711HPW biomedical circular piece over the heart engineer. “But in high noise to listen closely. environments, all sounds Stethoscopes are are amplified and we can’t acoustic medical devices hear the patient. For exam- designed to listen to the ple, if we’re in the back of internal sounds of the hu- a helicopter, we’d just hear man body such as the heart, helicopter noise.” lungs, intestines, or the This team of research- blood flow in arteries and ers decided to reintroduce veins. According to medi- stethoscope technology in While testing the new wireless high-noise filtering stethoscope, Maj. Daniel Bevington, a nurse researcher cal experts in the Air Force a more advanced way. They in the 711th Human Performance Wing of the Air Force Research Laboratory, places the device on a man- nequin’s chest to listen to internal sounds. (U.S. Air Force photo by Richard Eldridge) Research Laboratory’s are optimizing and testing 711th Human Performance a commercially available diagnosis means quicker in- “Of the five filters, there Wing, this is a go-to tool wireless stethoscope that terventions to help injured are two heart filters, which for early diagnosis and can will not only enable medi- warfighters.” work to isolate only heart save lives. cal personnel to listen and A basic task such as sounds; two lung filters, “If someone were to diagnose, but also record feeding a critically injured which target the inhale and drop me on an island with sounds for purposes such patient with a feeding tube exhale movement of air injured people and I only as second-opinion diagno- can pose a threat without sounds; and a broadband had one medical tool, I’d sis and training. Further, a stethoscope because the filter, which allows medical choose the stethoscope,” because they are wireless, tube could get dislodged crews to record sounds for explained Dr. Melissa Wil- these Bluetooth-capable de- and move into the lungs. second opinion diagnoses son, nurse scientist in the vices can be left on a patient Feeding tubes in the field as well as training. 711HPW. “We can use it to for monitoring while the are difficult to maintain “The broadband filter is listen to the heart and lungs, technician, nurse or doctor because of the constant a great tool for what we call but it is a multipurpose tool tends to other patients. movement of the patient, TM3—telemedicine, tele- that can also be used to lis- “The idea with this new explained Wilson. “This monitoring, telementoring. ten to the bowel and blood technology is that if we technology gives informa- We can record the sound The new wireless high-noise filtering stethoscope pressure, among other uses. can modify the common tion to the clinicians so they and quickly send it off to that is being tested by researchers in the Air Force Sometimes we can hear stethoscope for a military can maintain placement of another medical profession- Research Laboratory’s 711th Human Performance problems before we can see environment, not only can the tube – information that al to get their assistance or Wing, is displayed during a testing session. The de- them.” medical personnel use it to they didn’t have before.” advice,” said Harding. vice was developed by ThinkLabs. (U.S. Air Force In an environment such address heart and lung is- The new device, created The 711HPW team photo by Richard Eldridge) as a hospital or doctor’s of- sues, but also other diseases by ThinkLabs, has filter- continues to work on addi- “reading the room” to learn for every airframe we trans- fice, noise isn’t a concern; that are internal with symp- ing technology. With five tions for this new piece of and filter ambient noise so port patients on.” a basic stethoscope will toms that are not visible,” different filters, it has the technology. They are look- the sound in the device is The new stethoscope, work. But when military explained Harding. ability to filter out certain ing into options for multi- clearly heard. which has been flight test- members are injured down “Many times sympto- sounds, leaving only what patient monitoring – a wire- “Our future hope is that ed, is currently undergoing range, their first “hospital” mology is internal before needs to be heard inside the less stethoscope on every we can train the device in additional noise and vibra- is in the middle of a field or it’s external, so an earlier patient, explained Harding. patient in the cargo bay the environments we train tion research. with a central monitoring and work in,” she said. “So “This innovative medi- device. Also, they are look- if we know we’re trans- cal tool will help Depart- ing into building new filters porting on a C-17, then our ment of Defense aeromedi- for additional noise and vi- plan would be to have those cal professionals better treat bration. Wilson explained noise profiles loaded in and injured warfighters, and that when the device is first proactively filter out - ev transport them back home put on a patient, there’s a erything except the patient. to their loved ones,” said delay because the device is This could be accomplished Wilson.

Herculean oil change Staff Sgt. Collette Portzer, 317th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aerospace propulsion technician, works on one of four engines on a C-130J Super Hercules at Reno-Tahoe International Airport, Nevada, Aug. 15. Portzer changed the oil and inspected the engine to meet future mission requirements. The aircraft was in Reno in part of an eight-day training exercise conducted by the 39th Airlift Squadron to prepare for deployed operations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class River Bruce) September 3, 2019 • 9 Travis AFB produces first certified 3-D printed aircraft parts

By Louis Briscese from performing their mission 60th Air Mobility Wing Public don’t have as high as a priority Affairs for replacement. “The latrine covers we just TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, printed usually take about a Calif. (AFNS) – The 60th year from the time they’ve Maintenance Squadron is the been ordered to the time first field unit in the Air Force they’ve been delivered,” Higgs to be certified with an industri- said. “We printed two of the al-sized 3D printer that is au- covers in 73 hours.” thorized to produce nonstruc- Getting the printer opera- tural aircraft parts. tional was no easy task. It took The Stratasys F900 3D eight months to get the system printer, which is capable of fully operational. printing plastic parts up to “There were facility re- 36-by-24-by-36 inches, uses quirements that had to be met, a material called Ultem 9085 and then installation and cer- that is more flexible, dense and tification processes to - com stronger than typical plastic. plete,” Higgs said. “After, we The printer, which is certi- needed to decide who could fied by the Federal Aviation operate the printer, then have a Administration and the Air UDRI instructor certify them.” Force Advanced Technology Three members from the and Training Center, offers 60th MXS were chosen to be new opportunities to create the first technicians trained in needed parts while saving time the Air Force for the initial cer- and money. tification. One of them, Tech. “It brings us a capability Sgt. Rogelio Lopez, 60th MXS that we’ve never had before,” assistant aircraft metals tech- Tech. Sgt. Rogelio Lopez, 60th Maintenance Squadron assistant aircraft metals technology section chief, loads Ultem 9085 material into a canister for use in the Stratasys F900 3D printer, said Master Sgt. John Higgs, nology section chief, has been Aug. 15 Travis Air Force Base, Calif. Travis AFB is the first field-unit location in the Air Force to 60th MXS aircraft metals tech- with the project since its incep- nology section chief. “There’s have the Stratasys F900 3D industrial printer certified by the Federal Aviation Administration tion. and Air Force Advanced Technology and Training Center for use on aircraft replacement parts. so many possibilities avail- “UDRI has not trained or (U.S. Air Force photo by Louis Briscese) able to us right now. We’re just certified anyone else at the scratching the surface.” field level except the three of us the only field unit that is cur- Technicians are able to here at Travis Air Force Base,” rently operational, requests download blueprints from an Lopez said. “Now that we’re from outside the organization online database that the Uni- signed off on our training re- are already coming in. versity of Dayton Research In- cords, we’re the only ones who “We already have a list stitute has approved. can operate, maintain and print from the Air Force level to “The Joint Engineering on the Stratasys F900.” help them print and to backfill Data Management Information Now with parts in produc- some supplies,” Higgs said. Control System is where we go tion, all the hard work is pay- “This will ensure other bases to download already approved ing off. There’s a new sense of can replace items sooner than blueprints,” Higgs said. “Now, urgency within the organiza- expected with our help.” the University of Dayton Re- tion. Ultimately, the mainte- search Institute is working “It’s exciting because the nance shop wants to use the with the engineers to get those Air Force is implementing printer for more than just air- parts they developed into JED- new technology at the field craft parts. MICS.” level,” Lopez said. “The Air “We have the capability Latrine covers, the first aircraft parts authorized for use after The first approved project Force continues to encourage to print parts on a production being printed on the Stratasys F900 3D printer are on display was printed on the Stratasys Airmen to be innovative by scale for a lot more customers,” Aug. 15 at Travis Air Force Base, Calif. Travis AFB is the first field-unit location in the Air Force to have the Stratasys F900 F900 Aug. 12 and will replace finding new ways to stream- Higgs said. “The overall goal is 3D industrial printer certified by the Federal Aviation Adminis- latrine covers on the C-5M line processes and save re- to generate products for every tration and Air Force Advanced Technology and Training Cen- Super Galaxy. Typically, parts sources.” organization to support what- ter for use on aircraft replacement parts. (U.S. Air Force photo that don’t keep the aircraft And since Travis AFB is ever needs they may have.” by Louis Briscese) 10 • September 3, 2019 Arnold AFB Milestones 35 YEARS 5 YEARS 2nd Lt. Klicken Kodjobi NEW HIRES Erin Landry, AF Joshua Tuckey, AF Jimmy Burrows, TOS John Brantley, TOS 2nd Lt. Gregory Lan- Phillip Bare, TOS Savannah Langer, AF Joshua Tye, TOS Randy Hill, TOS Kenneth Brown, TOS drum, AF Heath Bowman, AF William Lucken, TOS Joseph Weatherman, AF Benjamin Dolmovich, Lt. Col. Justin Tolliver, AF Jacob Bowman, TOS Zachary Miller, TOS Keith Williams, TOS 30 YEARS TOS 2nd Lt. Riley Vaught, AF Matthew Bowman, AF Caitlyn Mitchell, TMAS Michael Wilson, TOS Vicky Colvin, AF Aaron Hamlen, TOS Tech Sgt. Dennis Wright, Zachary Byers, TOS Justin (Jay) Myrick, Dawne Kowalski, AF John Howell, TOS AF Matthew Carrol, TMAS TMAS PROMOTIONS Martin Johnson, AF Robert Knapke, TMAS Ashley Clark, AF Mardi Nichols, AF Senior Master Sgt. Dar- Korie Mattasits, TOS OUTBOUND MILI- Tyler Cornwell, TOS Steven Overturf, TOS rell Townsend promoted Evan Milligan, TOS TARY Kyle DeGreen, TMAS Michael Prince, TOS to chief master sergeant 25 YEARS Johnny Mull, TOS Capt. Janet Ashitey, AF Jaymes Downs, TOS Lewis Pumpelly, AF Maj. Ben Weaver, TN Barry Banks, TOS Chris Rudolf, TMAS Master Sgt. Matthew Nena Draine, TOS Jeremy Rains, TOS Army NG, promoted to Isaac Welch, TOS Derrick Talley, TOS Krueger, AF Scott Edwards, TOS Holly Randles, AF lieutenant colonel Jonathan Thompson, Daniel Epperson, AF Earl Rousseau, AF 15 YEARS TOS RETIREMENTS Gregory Frazier, TOS David Shanot, AF DEGREES Cody Bailey, TOS Tristan Witt, TOS Forrest McCullough, TOS Orville Glenn III, TOS Austin Sherman, AF Chris Mears, TOS, Casey Schewe, TOS Gary Woodall, TOS Howard Nichols Jr., TOS Stephen Gough, AF Jason Stanfill, TOS earned a Doctorate in Ronnie Porter, TOS James Howantiz, TOS Tyler Thompson, AF Industrial Engineering 10 YEARS INBOUND MILITARY Patricia Reynolds, TOS Tanner Jordan, TMAS Jose Troncoso Chong- (engineering manage- Richard Fraley, AF 1st Lt. Marc Green, AF Donald Wilt, TOS Jonathan Katzman, AF Hing, TOS ment)

Towsend promoted Warner Holt, left, and Dave Compton, right, both with National Aerospace Mears earns doctorate Solutions, tack on newly promoted Chief Master Sgt. Darrell Townsend’s National Aerospace Solutions General Manager Rich Tighe, left, congratu- stripes during a ceremony. Townsend is with the 236th Intelligence Squad- lates NAS team member Chris Mears on earning his doctorate in industrial ron, Tennessee Air National Guard. In his civilian career, he is a site secu- engineering (engineering management), during a Change Management rity manager with NAS. (Courtesy photo) meeting. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett)

Reynolds retires after nearly 40 years Patricia Reynolds makes a final stop by the Engine Test Facility lobby after her retirement reception Aug. 9 at Arnold Air Force Base. Reynolds retired from Arnold in August after nearly 40 years of service to AEDC. She began her career in Febru- ary 1980, starting in the warehouse as part of the first AEDC operating contractor, Arnold Research Organization, Inc. known as ARO. Her most recent position was as an operations and maintenance coordinator for the Test Operations and Sus- tainment contractor, National Aerospace Solutions, LLC. (U.S. Air Force photo by Deidre Ortiz) September 3, 2019 • 11 Fix these broken wings – part fabrication saves Air Force time, money

By Giancarlo Casem 412th Test Wing Public Affairs

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Team Edwards members worked together to save the Air Force more than $1 million in repair costs recently at Edwards Air Force Base, Cal- ifornia. Airmen from the 412th Maintenance Squadron discov- ered damages on a T-38 Talon during a 225-hour inspection. “During a standard 225-hour T-38 inspection, we found one substantial crack around a riv- eted area,” said Senior Airman Aliyah Vasquez, 412th MXS, Non-Destructive Inspection Section. The maintenance team dis- covered the crack by using an ultrasonic scan, a non-destructive technology, she said. “They (MXS) have 500 different inspections they do, they found one hole in the wing that was cracked; after going back and forth with engineering, they basically decided to change the wings,” said Owen McCallister, Metal Technologies Supervisor, 412th MXS. Senior Airman Aliyah Vasquez, 412th MXS, Non-Destructive Inspection Section, demonstrates a scanning tool used to identify Replacement wings were or- cracks in airplane parts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Giancarlo Casem) dered, but when they arrived the that moved the holes over so holes in the wings didn’t match they fit the aircraft,” McCal- up exactly with the existing lister said. “The left side went holes in the aircraft, McCallister well; the right side was actually said. gouged by the manufacturer, so When they mated the wings we had to make a fixture to open and fuselage, two front mounts that hole up, clean it up, and put were still off by 27-thousandths a new bushing in it.” of an inch, a width of about The total process took only eight sheets of paper, he said. That may not sound like it’s off roughly three weeks – much by much to the average person, faster and cheaper than reorder- but the high stresses aircraft un- ing new wings from the manu- dergo during flight require ex- facturer. acting tolerances. Ordering new “By the time we were done, parts would have cost more than it went on the plane very nice, a million dollars and would have it lined up great,” McCallister kept the aircraft out of flight sta- said. tus until the new wings could ar- The time the maintenance rive and be installed. crew saved meant that the T-38 But the technicians had an could be returned to operational idea that saved a lot of time and status much sooner and contin- a lot of money. ue its mission. The process also “We went back to engineer- meant that this procedure can ing, and they gave us the ‘OK’ be done on similar aircraft with A T-38 Talon assigned to the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School taxis at Edwards Air Force Base, to make two off-set bushings… similar issues. California. (U.S. Air Force photo by Dawn Waldman) Record-setting first sortie for wing’s newest F-35A

By Micah Garbarino check flights before the Air Force- ac 388th Fighter Wing Public Affairs cepts final delivery. These flights generate data points that are collected in the HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah Autonomic Logistics Information Sys- (AFNS) – The 388th Fighter Wing set tem and then passed on to the gaining a speed record for bringing online a unit, in this case the 388th FW. newly-delivered aircraft last week, fly- The previous timeline for inducting ing a local sortie less than five hours af- new aircraft was measured in days and ter accepting delivery of its 68th F-35A weeks, but process and system improve- Lightning II. ments in the data collection and transfer Aircraft tail number 5261 left Lock- process bodes well for the future, said heed Martin’s Fort Worth, Texas, pro- Chief Master Sgt. Trey Munn, 388th duction facility a little after 8 a.m. Aug. Maintenance Group chief enlisted man- An F-35A Lightning II flies over Hill Air Force Base, Utah, Nov. 19, 2018.(U.S. Air 1, landed at Hill Air Force Base at 10 ager. Force photo by Cynthia Griggs) a.m., and by 3 p.m. had taken off on its “We’ve been working toward this first combat training mission. goal as the program has matured and “The F-35A program’s production this is great step, and a testament to the and delivery plan was designed to allow work of the folks at Lockheed Martin, rapid aircraft induction and quick use the Joint Program Office, and the- Air by the customers,” said Col. Michael men in the 388th and 419th Fighter Miles, 388th Maintenance Group com- Wings,” Munn said. mander. “We’ve shown the enterprise The 388th and 419th FWs are the Air it’s possible.” Force’s first combat-capable F-35 units. This isn’t just a “gee-whiz” record. The first operational F-35As arrived at In theory, it means that F-35As could Hill AFB in October 2015. The active be deployed directly from the factory duty 388th FW and Air Force Reserve into combat if a large-scale conflict ever 419th FW fly and maintain the jet in a drives that need, Miles said. Total Force partnership, which capital- When a new F-35A comes off the izes on the strength of both components. line at the production facility, it under- By the end of this year, Hill AFB will be goes several contract and government home to 78 F-35s. 12 • September 3, 2019