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Metals craftsmen conquer the classroom

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Mackenzie Richardson
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Airmen from the 92nd Maintenance Squadron metals technology section visited engineering and mechanics students Jan. 13, at Medical Lake High School, Medical Lake, Washington. The presentation included the 92nd MXS metals technology section's daily activities and its mission. The visit also provided high school students insight to professional military engineering.

Staff Sgt. Adam Fillman, Staff Sgt. Robert Sabins and Senior Airman Jerry Brock, 92nd MXS metals technology craftsmen, met with more than 65 engineering and mechanics students during the day-long visit, concluding with a presentation with the school's robotics club.

"I was really impressed with the NCOs and the presentation," said Bernie Polikowsky, Medical Lake High School engineering teacher and robotics club mentor. "It was geared to the students in a way they were learning, but they were also entertained. The best thing a visit like this does is let the students see a group of professionals who have worked hard and become productive citizens in society."

Brock demonstrated the use of innovation in the metals technology section including the Romer Absolute Arm. This advanced equipment enabled Brock to take measurements and map them on a computer showing students the connection between computer-aided drafting and creating parts based on the computer-generated blueprints.

The Airmen spoke of their experiences after high school when deciding where their lives would take them. They discussed the student's goals, aspirations and shared stories about their triumphs and when they fell short.

"I could relate when they talked about finding their way after high school and trying to decide what they wanted to do for the rest of their lives," said Julia Olmstead, MLHS student. "I want to do something in the realm of engineering and knowing my options is a big thing to me."