Prime BEEF unit hones their skills

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jacob Jimenez
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  The 482nd Civil Engineer Squadron Prime Base Engineering and Emergency Force members began construction of a new pavilion Mar. 22.  The pavilion is being built to provide the personnel with hands-on training and a recreational space to hold retirements, ceremonies, picnics, and other events.

"Once built, this pavilion is going to boost the squadron's morale and help improve our quality of life," said Tech. Sgt. Gary Oakes, 482nd CES operations structures craftsman.

Prime BEEF are Air Force civil engineer forces organized for direct combat support or emergency recovery from natural disasters.

The old pavilion was demolished close to a decade ago to make room for the solar panels and the "spine" walkway through the center of the base. Planning for the new pavilion began in 2010 with help from the engineering, pavements, structures and operations shops; Satellite Services Inc., also contributed to the project.

The Pavilion will have a 40 foot by 60 foot concrete pad, a steel structure, decorative brickwork, ceiling fans, lighting and surrounding landscape.
 
"We practice the way we fight," said Chief Master Sgt. Brian Shaw, 482nd CES operations flight chief.  "This project gives the flight much needed hands-on training while using their different skill sets. In turn, this will help them to minimize mistakes and avoid hazards in the future."

The construction of the pavilion helps meet the requirement set by the Air Force for civil engineering units to complete two 500 to 1000 man-hour troop labor projects every two years. The projects have to incorporate Airmen using civil engineering disciplines to practice and hone their skills.
 
"This project is fulfilling our on-the-job training requirements," said Oakes.

With technological advances and different nontraditional training methods becoming more popular, the Air Force has implemented computer based training throughout. Though more effective in some work fields than others, the Air Force acknowledges that CBT training doesn't always outweigh the benefits of hands-on training.  Air Force hands-on training requirements such as TLPs provide opportunities for Airmen to enhance and gain experience in their valuable skill sets, while boosting morale and gaining a sense of accomplishment.

"By assigning noncommissioned officers of the squadron a troop leadership project like this, they gain vital project management training while educating younger Airmen on the details of safe construction methods," said Lt. Col. Theodore Munchmeyer, 482nd CES commander. "It is a great feeling to see all the pieces come together and know you built this as a team."