News

Aerial port squadrons seek new air transportation specialists

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Madelyn McCullough
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD FIELD, Wash. --  The 36th and 86th Aerial Port Squadrons are seeking some high-speed, motivated Airmen to offer a helping hand out on the flightline as air transportation specialists--Air Force Specialty Code 2T2X1.

The aerial port squadrons, both headquartered at[by the North Gate] , play the role of the airport for the 446th Airlift Wing. These individuals are critical pieces of the global airlift mission, who ensure proper, inspection, documentation, packaging, and loading and unloading of cargo on C-17 Globemaster III and other military transport aircraft.

"We ship everything," said Tech. Sgt. Tyler Akers, 86th APS air transportation specialist who has deployed twice to Iraq and twice to Afghanistan in his eight years with the unit. "Everything goes through us. We provide the last stand for all checks and balances. Without us there would be no continuity with any cargo coming in. We're putting a tag on it and making sure it's getting to the right people and that everyone is going through the right process to get their cargo in the air."

With the high demand for specialists overseas, the wing's aerial port squadrons need to fill slots at home station to offset the ones currently serving downrange.

"Even if we're losing 10 people for deployments, and have inspections locally, the job doesn't stop," said Tech. Sgt. Michael Pritchett, 36th APS air transportation specialist.

Though the AFSC may go by the single title of air transportation specialist, it's made up of an assortment of different roles, said Senior Airman Travis Schwenn, 86th APS air transportation specialist. These include helping out in the passenger terminal, working on the ramps, handling the cargo, managing special handling procedures, or being a part of the Air Transportation Operations Center.

With so many options, each person has the opportunity to settle in the area they're most comfortable with.

"There's such a broad base of what you can do," said Schwenn. "If you're a people person, you can work in the passenger terminal. If you love computer stuff, then there's ATOC, cargo, and special handling where you're doing all kinds of paperwork and math. And if you're an operator at heart--like myself--ramp is the place to be. There's something for everybody in my opinion."

Variety isn't the only benefit, said Pritchett, who has deployed once with this unit to Afghanistan. The job usually includes plenty of travel opportunities, plus all air transportation specialists are eligible for the Air Force Reserve Command GI Bill kicker Brief explanation.

"It's even a good career field once you get out of the military, whether you retire or your enlistment is up," said Schwenn, who has been on a deployment to Afghanistan and one to Iraq. "There are a lot of jobs in this career field outside the military. It makes for a good transition."

The 2T2 technical school runs about six weeks long and is located at Fort Lee, Va. Upon completion, air transportation apprentices have the opportunity to complete up to 90 days of hands-on training, to better apply and sharpen their skills, while gaining valuable experience in the career field.

Ideal candidates should enjoy working outdoors and working around aircraft--as well as getting a little dirty, said Pritchett.

For those who enjoy fresh air and getting their hands dirty, this is the perfect AFSC. Schwenn said he works mainly on ramps because it's what he enjoys and what he's best at.

"I'm an operator at heart," said Schwenn. "I love to be hands on. I love to be physical. I don't mind going out and helping push pallets. I've driven so many different types of vehicles because of this job, I think it's awesome. There's a lot of perks to it that if you're a guy like me, or a gal, and you like to operate and go out and do stuff, it's a fun job. You're always hands on and you're always moving. It helps you stay in shape too."

Those who would like to join the air transportation team can contact the recruiting office by calling (253)982-3501 or (253)982-9078.