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Apprentice Michael Jordan – Air Corps Technical Training School

Why did you choose a career in the Defence Forces?

I have always had an interest in the military and especially in aviation so I viewed the trade of Aircraft Mechanic in the Air Corps as being the perfect choice of career.

Describe a typical day for you?

While in school phases of the course, a typical work day would start at 0830hrs and would consist of classes in aircraft maintenance theory in the Technical Training School up to about 1630hrs. During the ‘on-the-job’ phase we get allocated to maintenance units where we spend the day with a maintenance crew repairing and maintaining operational aircraft.

How did you prepare for the application process?

I brought myself up to speed with Air Corps roles and its aircraft inventory and also on what the individual roles of the aircraft were. I also familiarised myself with some very basic aircraft and propulsion theory involving both fixed and rotary wing aircraft. From a fitness perspective, I was already training with the Dublin minor hurling team, so that kept me focused.

What do you see yourself doing after you finish training to be a technician?

I plan on seeing out the remaining years of my contract in one of the maintenance squadrons and then possibly emigrating to Australia to apply the skills I have learnt in the Air Corps over there.

What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

Actually getting ‘hands-on’ maintenance work on the aircraft!

What is the least enjoyable part of your job?

Some aspects of military life are time consuming and sometimes have a demanding effect on my private life.

What type of physical training does an apprentice do?

Our weekly academic timetable sets aside three periods for physical training. These include gym sessions or swimming usually. Then in our own time we have access to a substantial amount of fitness equipment and facilities.

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