SAN DIEGO –
A unique collaboration between the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) North Island and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35 is proving to be a win-win initiative that strengthens fleet readiness, enhances safety and prepares the next generation of aircraft maintainers through hands-on experience.
The partnership began in December 2023, when HSM-35 Executive Officer Cmdr. Donald Safford met CNATTU North Island Commanding Officer Cmdr. Robert Kersey during the Prospective Commanding Officer training pipeline. Their discussion about common manning and training challenges laid the groundwork for establishing a program that would send CNATTU students on hold to HSM-35 for real-world fleet exposure.
“HSM-35 had an unscheduled deployment and was short on personnel,” Safford said. “Bringing in CNATTU students not only helped ease the workload but [also] gave our team leadership and instructor opportunities—training students in areas like flight line safety, corrosion control and ‘by the book’ maintenance.”
For the students, the experience has been equally valuable. Several sailors shared they gained a better understanding of their rating, saw broader applications of what they learned, and felt more prepared mentally for their first fleet assignments.
Aviation Machinist’s Mate Elijah Taa said, “I really did enjoy going to HSM-35. I made some friends and gained a lot of knowledge.”
Aviation Structural Mechanic Air Recruit Matthew Ward said the experience gave him a better picture of what to expect in the fleet, while Aviation Electrician’s Mate Airman Apprentice Nathan O’Meara emphasized despite being new and underprepared, he immediately felt like a valued member of the team.
Safford underscored the collaboration directly supports the Commander, Naval Air Forces, or “Air Boss’s,” initiative to reduce Class C aviation ground mishaps (AGMs) by 50 percent.
“Safety and maintenance are not theoretical here—they must be practiced and demonstrated,” Safford said. “Our sailors teach CNATTU students procedural compliance and reinforce safe, by-the-book maintenance, which benefits everyone.”
Feedback from the HSM-35 team has also been overwhelmingly positive.
“One of our E-5s told me, ‘They’re [students], so nice to have. It’s going to be sad to see them go,’” Safford said. “And when I see a new face in a cranial, I assume it’s a new check-in—that’s how integrated they’ve become.”
Areas for improvement include expanding opportunities for more hands-on involvement and having CNATTU instructors teach at the squadron during major maintenance periods. But the foundation that has been built is strong.
“Now, when we know we’ll be pulling a gearbox or replacing a rotor head, we notify CNATTU so students can observe,” Safford said. “It’s more efficient and relevant.”
This partnership exemplifies the Navy’s commitment to warfighting readiness, safety and sailor development.
“We’re investing in our people,” Safford said. “This is how we build a more adaptable, mission-ready force.”
Written by Chief Petty Officer Edna Rodriguez with the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training, North Island, California. 