A day in the life of a maintainer in the Air Force | bringing a camera on the flight line!!

[@sw33tf33t305]

ALL footage was reviewed and cleared by Public Affairs, and Security Forces for those of you worried!

[@Thefvkingoat]

Dillion Choi have you flown a plane before

[@phasespilly6106]

Dude your videos are awesome and so well edited.you deserve so many more subs.

[@hominem3731]

Great job maintainer.

[@studiomtn]

How difficult is it to get your videos cleared? I plan on vlogging ALOT. And also I have to have security clearance for my job. I feel like I won't be able to do anything after that...

[@yee2753]

I was about to say how’d you get to take a video on the flight line and how are you so confident holding it up like that without QA seeing 😭😂

[@RyderSchäfer2002]

started at 16 doing car repairs at a local mechanic shop, took that and went straight to a recruiting center, got sent out to texas and now i’ve been an air force maintainer for 5 years living great doing what i love

[@xthe_iron_bananaandthebois3035]

Undoubtedly one of the best "life in the AF" videos I've ever watched. This is very true to what a day looks like. Great job!!!

[@eutimiochavez415]

I did it for 25 yrs and I love it thankyou for ur service

[@jumpingjeffflash9946]

You mention being late at the 5:00 mark, no one is ever late when they have brought donuts in to work. I wish I had those sun shades when I worked the open ramp at Homestead crewing F-16's in the 90's. I miss the flightline somedays and my time in Big Blue.

[@Keenuwest]

That flight line montage was dope bro! I’m excited to join the AF after I graduate college

[@sw33tf33t305]

Thank you for the feedback! Strive hard!

[@christopherbrandon6273]

Are you planning to enlist or commission

[@uhaveautism6192]

Did you join?

[@uhaveautism6192]

@@sw33tf33t305 whatever happened to ya, man?

[@davekrall4583]

did you end up joining?

[@triage242]

This guy should have 1 mil subs. good editing and quality, 10/10

[@Bigkuntry5911]

I remember those days. I finished my degree while working on the flight line. Great video, and thank you for your service.

[@ray0611]

I'm going through DEP right now and waiting to become a maintainer. I've been a little nervous but this video makes me very excited to join.

[@mtrgv]

Crew Chief, not maintainer. (USAF, F-4, F-16, F-117, T-37)

[@pingpong4016]

Daaaammmmnnnn the edit of the crew chief taxiing out the jet was really cool! Ol Shady J. Sometimes I miss that place.

[@annewillis6100]

My dad worked on the flight line as a rigger at raf boscombe down in the early 1950s. He had four fighters under his care, two Hunter mk2, wn888 and wn 892. A And meteors, one a f4 the other an nf 12. This was with 'a'squadron'. Experimental fighters

[@positivitytravels]

Yo this video was awesome!I love seeing other Air Force vloggers! NIce work

[@sw33tf33t305]

TimaanG thank you!

[@juneperez6015]

Me and the wife are definitely getting in the next vid!! Sick video brother!

[@RipRoaringGarage]

Don't take this the wrong way. Great editing, and video...but This actually reminded me of how much I despised being a crew chief. It flooded me with ALL of that negativity in our squadron (and current things, like the exposure to radiation that nearly killed me with cancer...twice, but that is the nature of serving.) I cross trained over to SF, just to get away from the AMU. I was in support for a while too (which I actually am fond off, as I learned A LOT about tools). So, now, this is just a broken vet, venting. Im from the BDU era, 911 etc. Lots of stuff I did, no recognition, but I still tell the stories to friends, and I have lots, both from the flgihtline working on heavies (E3, KC10, although I was stuck at Sheppard for a year, and was supposed to be VC25 . MPF forgot about me, hence losing my spot. Would have been some bragging rights working on that bird). Seeing the ACUs, I still hate them lol. The new unis do look ok, but the zipper to me seems strange (just like velcro for that matter lol. Im old I guess). Also, I was in the mafia, you know the one. Never got in trouble, but was in 11 years, E4, got out on my terms, despite doing my PT (12 minute mile and a half, 84 pushups and 50 situps...) with 27 staples from my solar plexus down to the groin where I had a full disection to remove a 50lbs tumor. ICU for 30 days, but I refused to be med boarded. I did my PT, collapsed at the end, my shirt was blood red and drenched. But it was worth it when two MPF airmen were gawking, and one said "Dude, that guy's bleeding," (I get up at this point, and act like its no biggie). The staff says "Oh, he's security forces,", and then that airman came back with "Oh, wow, that's hardcore" Was that moment worth the lifetime of problems? Maybe lol (I did break my neck later on, which kept me from coming back in after my phd studies). Im all over the place. Your vid stirred a lot of emotions, as I said bad, but good too. I miss it. Aim high, brother.

[@RipRoaringGarage]

Also, Id be remiss if I didnt say this... Must be nice working on a plane you could push my hand, under a nice awning, and only need a small APG box lol. Try working on the heavies, where everything is huge, requires a two man lift, but you end up doing it yourself. 375lbs mlg tire? No biggie, just Heman it! lol

[@djpollo2474]

Damn now I'm considering going to the army instead and become a mechanic there (not aviation mechanic because of your experience) which kinda sucks since boot camp seems pretty fucking hard and quality of life in the army vs airforce is pretty apparent which one is better lol. I'm 22 and already feel old, don't have a job, my family really needs the money and I don't have a degree so jobs that I qualify will earn me a couple burgers and rent...

[@RipRoaringGarage]

@@djpollo2474 Dont go in for the money or for college. You will get very bitter very fast. Go in because you want to serve...which is tough these days. Still, I would recommend the Air Force. Better quality of life, although SF is just like the Army. I would recommend going in, doing an enlistment or two, then go ANG. For SF, you get to rub shoulders with other cops, and find departments that may be hiring. As far as aviation, its still not bad. You get to learn things, and a mechanical discipline. For example. Im now disabled, broken neck and back. Still have good days, and I still own a bunch of classic cars, and bus. If it wasnt for fixing aircraft, using AFTO forms, tags, chelists (that I did make myself for my vehicles), I wouldnt be able to keep 8 cars running and fully operational. I also NEVER lost a tool (all those lost 10mm socket jokes dont seem too funny to me lol). If you WANT it, go for it. Screw me. You have your own life. Im just some guy on the internet. But go in fully, dedicate yourself to it, and you will do great!

[@alexha2884]

What radiation were you exposed to?

[@mtrgv]

You served with honor and integrity. The flightline is a stressful place for sure. If it's managed by folks with balls to say no, then the flightline works.

[@Hantography]

Lmao! Like how late you were but, still got that dope ass footage.

[@sw33tf33t305]

Gotta work the system! haha

[@hawaiiboysz]

I can’t wait for your VLOG at about year 18. I’m retired crew chief glad I did it and will never do it again.

[@Payamps17]

Why?

[@iarissei]

Fuck yeah, Maintainer!!!! Former USAF Crew Chief. Thank you. I miss it. I should have never left. Maintenance provides the ride. 😃

[@endi_kids_eccr8105]

Sweet smart watch on the flightline, bro

[@Ohmuhgawditzalacey]

Sick video and editing skills! One of the best Air Force vids I've seen ☺️

[@fultz321]

i see shady j hasnt changed at all since i was stationed there

[@katherinee.1213]

Cool video! Thanks for your service your job seems awesome

[@MERI_CANA]

Nice editing job man! Easily the best day in the life I’ve seen for the Air Force 🤘🏻

[@sw33tf33t305]

Michino Outa thank you for support! 🙏

[@brianfeldt2782]

Good video sir! Keeping it real, professional, and intelligent.

[@gagetheasian6946]

could you possibly do a video explaining your job. I’m also a fellow asian joining the air force and NDI is one of the jobs i qualify for. Love your videos!

[@sw33tf33t305]

Gage The Asian Thank you! It’s is hard to record things at my job without my permission, but I will try to make something soon! In the mean time, if you look up “non-destructive technician Air Force” you will see a few good videos!

[@gagetheasian6946]

Dillon Choi thank you!

[@christopherbrandon6273]

What is your job

[@gagetheasian6946]

Jay K i hate being inside for long periods , and didn’t do to great on the asvab. i’m kinda limited . just trying to find the 10 jobs i want to list

[@mijoadventures9324]

Become a crew chief (aircraft maintainer) it’s the most rewarding job even though it sucks most of the time.

[@kamarynsablan1517]

I love this!! Can you talk about how you bought a car and live in an apartment instead of Dorms next??

[@sw33tf33t305]

Kamaryn Sablan unfortunately I already recorded my next video, but I’ll for sure add it in the next one ;]

[@mijoadventures9324]

When you become a SrA you get out of the dorms, you get BAH which is housing allowance and how much you get is determined on the area where the base is. Usually if you’re single you might want to get a roommate because it’s cheaper.

[@damnsurfer522]

I was DCC on 1683 for a few years nice to see her again.

[@noahbrewer2476]

As someone who’s joining as a low observable air Craft maintainer(I ship out December 1st), this was very insightful. Thanks for making this!

[@theboothy91]

LO? I'm so sorry. Enjoy tech school though Pensacola is dope af if your 18 go to Sammy's. Also enjoy the cancer in 15 years should have gone regular ASM

[@Chical209]

Cool to see the 333rd patch, I wore it when I was at DM on A-10's

[@MegaVillainz]

One of the best AF Vlogs I seen keep going hard 💪🏾🤙🏾

[@sw33tf33t305]

Dread_Major55 : thanks for the support!

[@Hootiex]

Wow i really liked the picture at the end. Pretty cute

[@sw33tf33t305]

you know, I try lol

[@kevin25222522]

Ayy love the music bro.

[@sebastianjeznach7887]

I've been thinking about joining the Air Force when I am older, but I want to be a pilot and not a lot of other things, do you have any idea what I can do?

[@Jodywithawhy]

Sebastian Jeznach if you’re interested in becoming a pilot. Maybe the Air Force academy will be the best route for you. Keep in mind it’s extremely competitive to get accepted into the school, but it’ll really help you towards your dreams if accepted. Here’s some more info www.usafa.af.mil/About-Us/Flight-Operations/

[@sebastianjeznach7887]

JodywithaWhy ok thanks! Is it true that everybody who applied to be a pilot in the USAFA and met qualifications got a slot?

[@taranwilliamson1931]

Start getting your pilots license, the Civil Air Patrol is a decent way to do this for cheaper than normal. Getting your pilots license puts you a little bit above other pilot candidates. Also go to the Academy or AFROTC, you can just go OCS but it’s best to do ROTC or go to the Academy

[@Jodywithawhy]

Sebastian Jeznach Sebastian Jeznach I don’t want to lie to you. That’s something I couldn’t say without being totally sure. But I don’t see why they wouldn’t let someone who passed all the qualifications become a pilot. What Taran recommended is good info too. The Civil Air Patrol is a dope way to start getting your foot in the door of piloting.

[@sebastianjeznach7887]

JodywithaWhy thank you!

[@mtrgv]

5:40 ?! You must be at Shaw AFB !!!!!!!!!!! Ahhh 6 am take-offs, remember them well! Baaaaaaaaaaaaa Haaaaaaaaaaa. I liked Shaw so much I pcs'ed to Holloman!! So there shaw!!!!!

[@lucascontreras4587]

Does anyone know if airlift special mission is a good job, from everything I’m seeing although it’s not common on the internet, it’s hated.

[@autumnbonner5295]

Okay...this video is not getting the recognition that is deserves. The filming and editing was on point💯💯💯

[@anthonyhouse6702]

no pt at 6:30 and you guys don't leave at 17:00 or later??

[@MikeMiasuki-vy3xx]

When I did that job, we worked like dogs. We had great supervisors but the Full Bulls had no idea what we went through. They would buy beer every so often which meant nothing to me. I don't drink and the beer was offered at 1630. I worked swing shifts. I got what I wanted but I would never do that job again in a million years. They can keep QC. They add nothing to the quality of maintenance.

[@census3370]

I want to get my BA and then join the AF for a pilot slot. This was really hype. If I can’t be a pilot working on the flight line would also be great.

[@pkwithlemur18]

Hey Dillon I've been in 5 years I'm a jet mechanic just seen this video and thought it was very well made good stuff man

[@pkmcd9917]

how do airman know what airframes or particular model they will be assigned to service? how long before this is known?

[@aliciapruden9624]

I just wanna join for the jets thanks for the video I really enjoyed it and this was informative

[@timothymotley8246]

No you dont lol

[@Kidcouger2]

Alicia Pruden If you mean to fly then you have to get a degree and earn a comission, If you mean to work on the jets then you won't have an issue with that lol

[@mijoadventures9324]

Trust me you probably don’t. You’ll end working long hours, in bad weather, and you’ll still be getting paid the same amount as someone who works in an office who only works 8 hours a day and that close once a week for “training”

[@danielyun5120]

Video is amazing brother! I'd like to get a chance to visit your base someday. Love the music in the background and the jets! Brings back memories for me. You doing a great job and Thanks for your service Dillon!!

[@sw33tf33t305]

DANIEL YUN thank you for the support!

[@eckhal2]

Thanks for your service, nice Vlog, USAF Avionics Tech 66-70 Fighters (Iceland), transports Dover AFB, Rhein Main Germany and state side TDY Assignments. No cameras allowed on flight lines then but I have some 😉, personal lockers at the shop not in my time. Did not have those fighter shelters in Iceland, would have made flight line maintaining easier (windy,cold,rain,snow) but when real bad they all were towed into hangar. Never liked day shift, actually preferred midnight shift. Sleep to noon time then have rest of day to do something. Nice you can take online classes now. Tok University of Maryland then University of Delaware class room courses when able. Then out in 1970 to full time university and business career. Keep at it.👌💯🎯

[@sw33tf33t305]

Oh wow I couldn’t even imagine not having any clam shells in inclement weather, but thank you for your service too!

[@eckhal2]

Dillon Choi MAC Transports - C-141, C-133, C-124 were hardly ever pulled into hangars for maintenance. Too big for flight line shelters, many a cold, wet windy nights trouble shooting and repairing them. Worse was walking on an icy wing on a windy night as they were high off the ground. Same today for heavies I suspect. 🗽🇺🇸

[@SlimAndretti]

It’s crazy that I watched this vid before I swore in and hoping I would get NDI… now 8 months later, I actually booked it! 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@sw33tf33t305]

ayyy im glad! Im sure you will enjoy the journey, you picked one of the best maintenance jobs out there so be proud!

[@poopsicles3980]

No such thing at 8hr shifts at SJAFB unless you’re in support or not working the line

[@donald8354]

Best wishes to all maintainers.

[@RobEcu123]

Doesn't want to be in uniform more then 8 hrs😂😂😂 ahhhhhh ndi

[@theboothy91]

I'm ASM and I pretty much never wear my cammies, I wear dickies work pants on the flightline

[@RobEcu123]

@@theboothy91that's an authorized uniform lol

[@theboothy91]

@@RobEcu123 well I said cammies I never wear them except for 15 minutes on Mondays and Fridays for formation

[@violator6677]

Hi, I quick question when do you get to eat and are you provided food or do you need to buy/bring food to work?

[@TheAMCAST1]

Did he receive a QA fail for having a cell phone on the flight line. Ref. 21-101

[@kaikjs2252]

This was a high quality vid. You deserve more subs

[@CHASA]

How long is tech school for an aircraft mechanic or aircraft electrician?

[@TheRcworld101]

I feel like for someone like myself who has always loved turning wrenches in the garage and wanting to take that to the ultimate step, I should be looking into this...

[@sw33tf33t305]

if you love that kind of stuff, def look into the maintenance career field! just know about the long hours you might have to work!

[@Knocksteady95116]

I've always loved both airplanes and photography. Always have been curious about the Air Force however, having just turned 27, I feel I am too old.

[@michaeldevin8301]

you can do it man, we have people way older than you in my tech school, don’t be afraid accomplish your goals!

[@mattgardner3763]

doing this at 41

[@selsahmwishen2981]

What time do you take your dog for a morning walk and poop😊?

[@redstreet8012]

I was in a F14 squadron in the early 80's, we weren't allowed to bring a camera past a certain point.

[@twilson1542]

I know this is extremely late, but I'm going to enlist next year and I hope to be a crew chief. Everybody talks about long 12hr shifts but all the "day in the life" vids I see are standard 8hr shifts. Is the schedule not very consistent or whats the explanation? Thanks!

[@sw33tf33t305]

It really depends on the day, but for a crew chief, I would expect to be working those 12-hour days. A lot of people like to over exaggerate what they work, but it just really depends on what aircraft are in phase or not. That is just MY personal experience when I worked with them.

[@Mocha-Latte]

Just found this video because I’m still trying to figure out what mos I want to shoot for.

[@lizzyd2420]

If you don't start posting again !!!!! Get on that asap !

[@BoneyardBrigade21]

0540 and still sipping coffee!? You lucky dog! My call time is 0530...MX here as well. Good video.

[@gattlinj902]

I’m leaving In 3 weeks as a 2A631 any advice, old video so not sure if you’ll respond 😬

[@yeetnugget615]

Air Force mechanic is definitely my backup plan if stuff goes wrong

[@sergiomontano1685]

Man this is some awesome content. I am surprised you dont have that many subs. NEW SUBSCRIBER HERE! ;)

[@tillman002000]

Just here reminiscing. I got out in 2002; except I worked Heavies, Depot Maintenance.

[@sw33tf33t305]

Lion Heart thank your for your service!

[@josefsmith3140]

Did 6 years as a maintainer loved the people and the traveling not so much the work.

[@Franks.18]

Dis vid was hard asfff 💪🏼

[@sw33tf33t305]

Daddy Frankee thank you 🙏

[@julioperches]

For drone maintenance what do I need to score on asvab?

[@thelawlessloner]

Do maintainers have an easy transition to A and P jet mechanics in the civilian field?

[@mijoadventures9324]

They’ll pay for you to take the courses I believe but other than that I’m not sure. I know a couple of that got their a and p license but they said it was tough

[@TheBaconboy21]

You wont be certified with your military training alone.You’ll have to go through the A & P courses while you’re in or after.

[@negativenarwhals]

Might I ask, how hard was it to go through the boot camp? I want to be in the Air Force as a pilot but I don’t think (right now at least) I could handle how serious it is.

[@sw33tf33t305]

This is my personal opinion, but I do not think it was that hard. The only thing you have to prepare for is the mental aspect of boot camp. IF you go into boot camp with a positive outlook and determination you will be great!

[@negativenarwhals]

@@sw33tf33t305 Oh good! I was just worried about how it's a yelling-in-your-face kind of deal, and I'm a quiet person so I wasn't so sure. You make a good point about the positive outlook though, that's good advice. Thanks :)

[@sebastianjeznach7887]

Just a heads up,in order to be a pilot you have to be an officer, which can take a LONG time, an 90% of the time you don't choose your job.

[@negativenarwhals]

@@sebastianjeznach7887 I thought you could get a reserved spot for a pilot as soon as you get in if you sign a contract for 8 years? Idek, but something like that.

[@sebastianjeznach7887]

​@@negativenarwhals It's different for everybody, but you have to first be an officer, get a good score on all the tests they make you do, and after training, win a slot to fly, if you don't win it, you'll still have the proper paperwork and stuff to fly, but you won't fly unless a slot opens up

[@The13Boogyman]

8 hours a day 5 days a week! What flightline do you work on...in my active time we usually worked 10 hours a day and had the duty every other weekend.

[@sw33tf33t305]

My job title is NDI (Non-Destructive inspection), but most people in FAB flight, excluding maybe sheet metal, work a normal shift most of the time. We also work weekends but it is on call and we cycle people every month or so.

[@CHANGONATION]

I was t to work closely with aircraft and be able to fly, what most would you recommend? Love your little montage.

[@THEGOD5K]

to fly you need a degree and be an officer

[@bshiesty_9917]

If you dont want to control the aircraft but still “fly” you can enlist as a special missions aviator

[@Itsjustsieer]

can you make a video on what not to buy after basic training and what to buy after basic training

[@STE7ENsho]

Nice video! Keep it up man 👍🏼

[@MC-mh2ju]

Easiest job in the world. Literally spend 8 hours a day in the break room, looking through social media on my phone.

[@jbm.6440]

Do those ear pro work good. I am kinda scared going deaf if join

[@JesusSaves734]

I'm planning on doing a maintenance job in the airforce and please be honest, Is this a job for someone who's body doesn't respond well to standing for long durations

[@richierich7361]

Nope

[@strumminandwrenchin9162]

my Asian broo, I'm in tech school for heavy maintainer! but I'm in the reserve tho. I got me a good city goverment civilian job that I don't need active duty.

[@stephenmac23]

Hey bro, how many years do you have to serve to get 100% of your GI bill for AF?

[@brianifitness3656]

Intel analyst here... ironically I have yet to even get close to any aircraft in the Air Force even after 2 years! But that’s probably because I work in a room with no windows and I barely get to see people in general :D

[@BoneyardBrigade21]

Was that a maintainer with an iwatch on checking out the engine?! Where is QA? 😊

[@elijahv9howard]

Bro your editing is sick 👍🏽

[@TheBarbarino28]

Are the Advanced fighter Aircraft Avionics considered maintenance?

[@Milan-oq3xx]

Wait, so you can be active and stay by yourself close to base??!

[@shaneflaky3708]

How many days a week? How many hours?

[@DiegoGomez-e2e]

how much you get paid annually? if I were to go into this field is it something I would be able to take to my civilian life? btw I'm trying to join the Air Force so I'm trying my best do the research on what jobs I would want to do

[@vcrazy_diamond]

Do you think I'll need to get my footage approved if I record what I do in shop? Obviously I won't record sensitive stuff. Just want to show my friends and family back stateside what I do. I'm an NDI tech btw

[@TheHypeHubOfficial]

What if you don’t drive? Do you just live on base?

[@crazyfish663]

Great editing!

[@magmasloth3619]

I got offered to do aircraft maintenance or structure whats better and why ?

[@richierich7361]

Don't do maintenance.

[@BbyBallz]

⁠​⁠@@richierich7361why not maintenance? I just want to have a job that has anything to do with working on jets or aircraft.main one that caught my attention was tactical aircraft maintenance

[@NBHRaven]

I assume then that you’re at Seymour Johnson? How was it there?

[@sw33tf33t305]

Yup, I didn’t like it at first, but I learned to make the best of it and loved it ever since!

[@NBHRaven]

@@sw33tf33t305 my granddaddy retired from there after 23 years of service. Passed away a few years ago but I’ve heard SJ AFB is hit or miss

[@earlysummerz2442]

I’m a big surfer and I am 2 years away from enlisting, I want go to the special forces side of the AF, like TACP. But I don’t know when I would have time off to see family or friends or surf. I was wondering if you knew how often special forces have time off?

[@sw33tf33t305]

L M I am not special forces so I cannot give you a accurate answer, but what I will say is that although they tend to deploy a decent amount, if you are not deployed you can visit them whenever you want. As long as you have enough leave days to use! That is just I THINK it is. Hope this helps!

[@earlysummerz2442]

Dillon Choi thank you for that, and thank you for your service

[@rwillplays3315]

sick video!

[@tylersimmons2535]

Hey what classes do you take in college

[@bass_playz3396]

This is a bit late but how long was your contract?

[@AirForceKrissy]

I was expecting information about your current Mos as I’m interested in learning more about it. So that was a bit disappointing but the video was overall good

[@Plopdoc]

Yooo I love this! It’s so accurate!! I’m in specs 🤓

[@xaros47]

Keep working bro, guessing your a SrA. I'm at Hill doing avionics for the F35, still dont have my 5level tho lol

[@willeyytbe1777]

What did u do in boot camp? Bc I’m scared of the boot camp

[@mijoadventures9324]

Marching drills, classes, and pt. It’s super easy, they’re going to yell at you but just cancel out the yelling and listen to what they’re saying. Also don’t because an element leader, guide on, class leader or chow runner. Just do it, get out of your hometown.

[@hawaiiboysz]

Boot camp is easy. They tell you what to do and you do. Easy as that. If your parents told you to clean your room and you did a half ass job then it may be a challenge for you,.

[@TagimationStudios]

Awesome video. I did 6 years as a weapons troop on the A-10. The base I was at we were lucky if we got off after 8 hours 🤣. But like you said we all have our own experiences 👍🏻. Keep up the awesome work.

[@sw33tf33t305]

Tagimation Studios Ya all maintenance jobs vary but I’m glad to hear it! You too! I loved your channel!

[@TagimationStudios]

Dillon Choi awesome! Thanks! ✌🏻

[@crazyvideoholic9380]

I thought after completing BMT the job would be like a 9 to 5 job.

[@TheBaconboy21]

If you’re a nonner yea

[@sw33tf33t305]

All depends on what career field you get into!

[@amnelzadiel2010]

How many months of Tech school for aircraft maintainance ?