New Job, New Opportunities

     I know Its been forever since Ive posted on this blog. But allot has changed and to be honest I kinda forgot about it. So Long story short, I took a job as a S-64 field mechanic with Erickson Aviation. This basically means I get chase a giant helicopter all over the world. It has turned out to be a great opportunity and experience. This last summer my my machine (N194AC pic below) was contracted to the forest service for fire abatement. Most time was spent in either Oregon or California. This winter I may be heading to Australia for their fire season. I work a 12 days on, 12 day off schedule when I'm here in the states. When I head over seas it goes to 21 on 21 off. 

    

The S-64, or "Skycrane" is an awesome piece of equipment. Its one of the few helicopters that can lift more than its own weight. This enables us to lift up to 20,000 lbs... strait up. it has two PWJT12 engines delivering 9000 hp.

   So Far this job has been very good, and I plan to stay for the foreseeable future. 

 

Another Move

     Last year I began work as a mechanic for a company in Hayden Idaho. They perform heavy checks on ATR 42/72, Saab 340 and Q400 aircraft. Its been a nice change from the paint shop. Here I perform everything from changing light bulbs to changing engines. Its a much more challenging work place and have enjoyed it.  Ive had the opertunity to use more of my skills and learn what it really takes to be a good mechanic.

   Living in Idaho has been really good for me too. Its a more laid back conservative area, so its been a nice change from Spokane. Im also much closer to hiking and fishing areas, which is something id like to do a lot more of.