Nelson aviator keen to make a difference with Air Force career

The new avionics technician has spent years getting to know the Air Force after five years with Air Cadets unit 23, “Ghost Squadron” and has now finally joined the service. He was one of 55 recruits who recently graduated at RNZAF Base Woodbourne.

The 18-year-old, who is also pursuing his private pilot’s licence, joined because it was a chance to make a difference and “have a fulfilling career doing what I love”.

Now Aircraftman Barker said he is looking forward to learning new skills and taking up as many opportunities that life in the Air Force offers.

“The Air Force has so many new aircraft and with more on the way it makes working here really appealing,” he said.

“So far there’s the new P-8A Poseidons and the C-130J Hercules, but soon there will be naval MH-60R Seahawks replacing the No. 6 Squadron SH-2G(I) Seasprites, and the Boeing fleet will be taken over by Airbus aircraft.

“There's a lot to look forward to. I'm really excited to start.”

After he completes trade training at Woodbourne, Aircraftman Barker hoped to be posted to No. 6 Squadron for when the Seahawk helicopters arrive.

The past few months on the recruit course threw some challenges at Aircraftman Barker, with two close friends who enlisted with him leaving the course before graduating.

“But I quickly figured out, I could turn to the people around me when I needed to, although we had only known each other for a few months we had each other’s backs.

“I also missed my girlfriend at home, but I knew I would rather see her at my graduation after finishing the course than get homesick and leave early.”

The field phase of the course was a highlight for the new aviator, with exercises held at Dip Flat Military Training Camp in the Wairau Valley.

“It was interesting being on vehicle checkpoint duties, searching vehicles and going on patrols. I also really enjoyed the weapons training and learning how to use the MARS-L rifle.

“The basic course tests everyone, but you will look back and it will be some of the best memories you have. Joining the New Zealand Defence Force means you have an enormous amount of fun alongside having an interesting and fulfilling career.”