Philippine Sea. (November 30, 2024): In this photo by Petty 1st Class Ryre Arciaga,
Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Kristiana Tyler, from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, clings to a giant MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter while installing a tail fastener. Tyler is assigned to Maritime Strike Squadron 51 and currently serves aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Preble. An Aviation Structural Mechanic (ASM) maintains all aircraft hydraulic power systems, wing airfoils and associated surfaces, and flight controls. It is exacting work, and the consequences of mistakes can be catastrophic.
There are two types of ASMs, Structural Hydraulics and Safety Equipment. The structural types concern themselves with the hydraulic system, landing gear, and the entire fuselage. The safety types are responsible for maintaining aircraft protection systems, including ejection seats, oxygen supply, and fire extinguishing systems. ASMs may be assigned to sea or shore duty anywhere in the world and may work in hangars on base or on aircraft carrier flight decks.
To become an ASM, a candidate must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete eight weeks Basic Training, and 18 months’ of technical instruction at Pensacola, Florida. That is when school really begins. An ASM’s value increases dramatically with the type of high-speed, real-world experience gained in the service.
Unsurprisingly, prospects for civilian employment for ASMs are bright. In fact, the demand for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians is growing faster than many similar occupations. Medium pay ranges from $36,000 to $75,000 a year based on experience.
Without a doubt, ASMs are an aircraft’s (and their crew’s) best friend.