Photo By Tech. Sgt. JT Armstrong | Airman 1st Class Madison Ferguson, 5th Maintenance Squadron phase crew chief, stands...... read more read more
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“I enjoy working on aircraft that at 60-years-old, still runs,” said Airman 1st Class Madison Ferguson, 5th Maintenance Squadron phase crew chief. “The reason it still flies is because we’re here doing our job.”
Ferguson, one of just three female Airmen in phase maintenance, plays a key role in keeping the B-52H Stratofortresses at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, in the air.
“Working hard has nothing to do with gender – it’s who you are as a person,” said Ferguson. “I try to show that I can do as much as anyone else.”
According to Ferguson, phase maintainers must perform in-depth inspections on aircraft parts and items that can’t be fixed on the flightline. Area phase crew chiefs are responsible for inspecting their assigned area, looking for parts that require servicing or replacement.
Phase also regularly helps maintenance Airmen on the flightline with basic post-flight inspections, towing, pre-flight inspections and recovery of the aircraft. It was during a recent pre-flight inspection that Ferguson’s training and attention to detail shone.
According to Staff Sgt. Benjamin Rorman, 5th MXS phase crew chief, Ferguson identified a hazard on a critical landing gear component during a B-52 inspection before a launch. She prevented damage to the aircraft which would have resulted in a potential loss of capabilities and life.
This dedication and hard work came as no surprise to Ferguson’s leadership and peers. She exemplifies these values on a daily basis.
“Airman Ferguson came straight into phase as an Airman 1st Class, and is working at a Senior Airman-level,” said Rorman. “She sets the standard by always being on top of the job and looking for additional work to do.”
Ferguson, a Sacramento, California native, joined the Air Force for school opportunities. After duty he studies criminal law at Minot State University in hopes of becoming a lawyer.
“I am blessed to have this job because it isn’t for everyone,” said Ferguson. “After two years of being on the flightline, maintenance has made me tough. I can endure and overcome anything I set my mind to.”
The B-52’s life span, according to current engineering analyses, is projected to extend beyond the year 2040 with the help of skilled Bomber Airmen, like Ferguson, who keep them flying.
| Date Taken: | 10.21.2016 |
| Date Posted: | 10.31.2016 14:33 |
| Story ID: | 213366 |
| Location: | MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, NORTH DAKOTA, US |
| Web Views: | 91 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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