JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
There's no doubt that civil engineers throughout the military are responsible for keeping the installations going. Without CE Airmen, buildings, roads and even security would deteriorate - they're responsible for all of this and more.
An integral part of CE that helps carry this vital range of missions is the heating, ventilation and air conditioning team. HVAC flight members take care of a great deal of the detail to keep Airmen safe.
"The 316th Civil Engineer Squadron HVAC flight works jointly with housing maintenance and sometimes outside contractors to maintain the installation," said Tech. Sgt. Dwayne Carter, 316 CES HVAC technician. "We can learn from each other - there's always another way of doing something and sometimes it could be a better way."
Though HVAC by name only covers three key aspects of keeping a base going, the mission of the flight encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. Flight members, as well as the rest of CE, are even a part of the "combat proud" team which picks up trash around Joint Base Andrews on the weekends.
"Our job is comprised of a great range of careers," said Tech. Sgt. Scott Day, 316 CES HVAC technician and area leader. "We have to be plumbers, electricians, etc. to maintain such a broad field of responsibilities."
While the scope of duty will always remain a large one, the base mission of keeping the flightline safe and operational is still a high priority for the flight.
"Our main mission is to maintain the flightline," said Airman Tom Spears, 316 CES HVAC technician. "We are also responsible for maintaining the quality of life of the base populous by preserving all HVAC needs."
Members of the HVAC flight prepare to deal with emergency or deployed situations by treating everyday as they would overseas or in emergency situations. Airmen work long shifts and are always prepared to get a call to return to base to tackle with any incident that arises.
"Whether or not we have to go without seeing our families, if we're on standby we fill the need no matter the sacrifice," said Sergeant Day.
The team not only executes every task that's thrown at them, they also continue to strive for excellence.
"We won the 316th Wing award for being the 'team of the quarter' by working very hard, long hours," said Airman 1st Class Zane Miller, 316 CES HVAC technician.
Through their recognition and general quality of the work they do, members of the HVAC team have a lot of pride in their flight.
"We complete our missions and that of the installation no matter what it takes," said Sergeant Carter. "We do our job well."