151st CES builds, improves base to maintain mission

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Emily Hoferitza
  • 151st ARW/PA
SALT LAKE CITY --  The 151st Civil Engineer Squadron is in the midst of approximately 14 base projects, with an impending deployment overseas.

Lt. Col. Jack M. Wall, the 151 CES commander, said their biggest project currently is the construction of a new base fire station, which broke ground in October.

He said that the $7.4-million project will include the fire station, a fitness center, an explosive ordinance disposal facility and a mobility processing center for the base. The project is expected to take 18 to 24 months to complete.

Many base members are eagerly anticipating the new CE projects.

"We are very excited for the construction of the new fitness center," said Lt. Col Lisa Olsen, wing fitness program manager. "The new facility will help us better facilitate the new PT test as well as provide a huge morale boost for Airmen who enjoy working out on base."

Colonel Wall explained they have been able to fund and start working on eight of the base's top 10 projects as project managers while working in cooperation with base contracting.

Many active projects include the remodeling of various buildings on base, said Lt. Col. Wall. The wing commander's office is being remodeled to add a conference room, the 109th vehicle maintenance shop had a swamp cooler installed, and other smaller projects are taking place including the remodel of squadron restrooms.

"We are committed to making everyone's work environment a better place," he said.
He also added that Building 218, which was the original home of the recently deactivated 299th Range Control Squadron, will be remodeled in order to house the base's contracting office, which is currently split between two buildings.

Col. Wall said that their squadron is trying to take a leadership role and make things better for the base.

"Better facilities mean better training and more efficient missions," he said. "Our job is to make sure everyone has the facility they need to meet their mission."

The 151 CES is also getting ready to deploy at least 35 Guardsmen overseas in order to support the 200th Red Horse Squadron with the Ohio Air National Guard.