Roland R. Wright Air National Guard Base -- U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brandon Dew is the shop foreman of the 130th Engineering Installation Squadron Vehicle Maintenance. He has been serving in the 151st Air Refueling Wing since 2013.
“We maintain 35 vehicles and 50 pieces of equipment that keep the fleet operational,” said Dew. “So, if a job comes up or an emergency happens you will be able to drive out and use the equipment you need without worry.”
The vehicle maintenance shop has eight members, six of which are traditional guardsmen, all from different backgrounds and experiences. This allows the whole team to face challenges using several different perspectives.
“What I love about the Guard is that we are very family oriented,” says Dew. “We also have a wide variety of experience which helps the mission, and we all learn new things.”
Deployments in the 130th EIS are an ever-present reality and vehicle maintenance is a crucial asset. If a vehicle or piece of equipment needs repairs, without vehicle maintenance the mission would soon come to a halt.
Tech. Sgt Dew goes on to say, “Most of our shop is deployed, so the few that are left have to keep things running and I have to train our new Airmen while everyone is gone.”
The Utah Air National Guard not only provides outstanding careers but also teaches skills that can be used in the civilian world. Being a vehicle mechanic is a skill that will stand the test of time.
Dew concludes “I think everyone should learn a little about vehicle maintenance. Not only will it save money, but it is a skill that can be used to help others.”