The Stallions are the Navy's only 'heavy-lift' squadron, according to Zitterkopf, which made them the natural choice for the mission here. The full squadron consists of 275 people and is located in Sigonella, Sicily. In cooperation with Rota's Human Resources Office, several high school students get the opportunity to work the summer at the maintenance facility here. The students' job responsibilities are similar to those of a Sailor new to the Navy. It's a large responsibility for an airman fresh out of 'A' school, let alone a 15-17 year old high school student.
Quality control is assured for Sailors and students alike.
The students move from module to module within the shop so they build all six modules of the engine, said Brewer. After the engines are build, the students have an opportunity to go to a test cell and control the throttle to full afterburner. We have them go down the test cell so they can see their product at work. Summer hire students are also actively involved in the command's weekly professional development training. Training topics range from shop safety to drinking and driving.