Students learn terms , tools , and skills including blueprint reading ; usage of calipers and micrometers ; drilling and basic riveting ; metal bending ; and sheet metal repairs . They also see manufacturing in action .
Safety is a critical theme in the course , as it is throughout the aerospace industry . Lessons include the proper use of PPE , the risks and prevention of FOD , and application of safety wire — which is a type of positive locking device that prevents components in the aircraft from falling out due to vibration — preventing potentially fatal accidents .
Erickson ’ s Aircraft Manufacturing and MRO Manager , Tony Crume , explained the significant role of safety wire .
22 LET ’ S GO AEROSPACE
“ We don ’ t ever want things falling out of the sky , so making sure things are safety wired in the aircraft keeps them secure . It ’ s a tough skill set to learn , but our training aids show different pattern variations , and they practice using safety wire pliers to replicate the patterns .”