Two new flight engineers at 14 Wing Greenwood have the potential to become the “heart and soul” of future aircrew.
Corporal Andrew Draaisma and Corporal Steph Fiola graduated from their MOAT (Maritime Operational Aircrew Training) Course at 404 (Long Range Patrol and Training) Squadron April 18 and were presented their flight engineer’s wings during a brief ceremony at the Annapolis Mess.
“This is a really important occasion,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Keith Fugger, commanding officer of 415 (Long Range Patrol Force Development) Squadron. “I’ve been on flights where the flight engineer is the heart and soul of the crew. Everyone knows how much effort it takes to become a flight engineer. With this training, you’ll have the opportunity to build and master skills and, in some respects, you’ll be leading crews on operational work, overseas and here at home.”
Fiola joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 2007 as an aviation systems technician. He has worked at 14 Air Maintenance Squadron and 405 Squadron here at 14 Wing, deployed on multiple occasions and added to his work experience and certifications. He returns to 405 Squadron.
Draaisma enrolled in the RCAF in 2015 as an aviation systems technician, with postings at CFB Borden, with 431 Squadron (the Snowbirds) at CFB Moose Jaw, Greenwood and Comox. He returns to 407 (Long Range Patrol) Squadron at 19 Wing Comox.
