Lofty goal
Member of 397 Trenton Squadron cadets learning aircraft technology at training centre in Ontario
A few days ago, Gavin Hiltz got to help take apart the tail rotor on a helicopter, perhaps an unusual activity for a 15-year-old usually on his summer vacation. The Pictou teen is spending six weeks at Canadore Cadet Training Centre in North Bay, Ont., learning aircraft maintenance skills. “We get to do hands-on stuff, which is amazing,” he said. Hiltz has also had the chance to test the landing gear on an aircraft, to install and remove rivets used in aircraft metal structures, and learn about different kinds of engines. The flight sergeant with 397 Trenton Squadron in Trenton is one of 120 cadets selected to attend one of two advanced aviation technology courses at the training centre, from among 700 applicants across the country. Hiltz is enrolled in the Aircraft Maintenance course, while the other is Airport Operations. Second Lieutenant Darius Soo Lum, the unit public affairs representative for AATC Canadore, said selection for enrolment for the courses is quite competitive. Cadets submit a written essay, school transcript and cadet career resume and participate in an interview, and are then listed in order of merit and offered “these prestigious courses which will enhance their careers.” While Hiltz isn’t sure whether he wants to pursue flying as a career or a hobby, he thought learning about aircraft maintenance would help him better understand the aircraft. “If something broke, I’ll be able to fix or understand it.” Hiltz will enter Grade 10 at Pictou Academy in the fall, and enrolled in cadets four years ago for a specific purpose. “My ultimate goal is to get a private pilot’s licence,” he said. “That’s mainly why I joined.” But along the way – through attending other summer camps where he undertook general, drill and ceremonial training – he’s discovered other benefits. “It’s really helped with my leadership abilities.” The Canadore centre is different from other camps Hiltz has attended, as it’s located in a college setting and the course is taught by university professors as opposed to Canadian Armed Forces members. “I enjoy the accommodations and facilities at Canadore, as well as the staff and instructors,” he said. Topics include basic aviation physics, materials used in aircraft manufacturing, avionics systems, instrumentation, inspections, servicing and careers in the field. “I’m just glad I was able to do this,” said Hiltz, “gaining more knowledge about aircraft maintenance, along with making friendships to last a lifetime.”