Multi-Skill Crew Delivers First C-17 Ahead of Schedule

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --- The C-17 Globemaster III cargo plane that sat in front of a maintenance hangar here looked no different than any other C-17, but the maintenance crew around it was unique.>> The crew, part of the 562nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, is the first to be trained under a new "multi-skill" initiative. The aim is to speed projects by giving one mechanic the skills to perform a task that previously would have involved three mechanics with varying skill sets. The intent is to have one person complete the same tasks that would otherwise have required two or three mechanics.>> The C-17, which arrived Aug. 8, was the first test for the crew that had volunteered for the multi-skill training in May. Functional testing began Oct. 8 and the plane was scheduled to depart Robins AFB by mid-October, meaning the crew will complete the work about one week ahead of schedule.>> That's a 15-percent reduction in flow days, which refers to the amount of time it takes to complete maintenance on a plane from the time it arrives. According to Marian Fraley, deputy director of the 402nd Maintenance Wing, the reduction should only improve as the multi-skill crew perfects its abilities.>> "We are looking at reducing flow days over a period of time," Ms. Fraley said. "It increases our productivity.">> Performing maintenance on a C-17 previously required eight different mechanic job descriptions, explained Mike Doubleday, deputy director of the 562nd AMXS. Those positions are electronics mechanic, electronic integrated systems mechanic, aircraft electrician, sheet metal mechanic, aircraft overhaul mechanic, aircraft mechanic, aircraft pneudraulic systems mechanic and aircraft engine mechanic.