WWOW: Amberson

Staff Sgt. Kevin Amberson, 35th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron avionics technician attached to the 14th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, secures a panel on an F-16 Fighting Falcon at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 22, 2014. As an avionics NCO, Amberson is responsible for teaching his subordinates how to fix over 20 different systems on the F-16 Fighting Falcon. His outstanding work ethic and overall good conduct and discipline earned him the title of Wild Weasel of the Week. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alyssa C. Wallace)

WWOW: Amberson

Staff Sgt. Kevin Amberson, 35th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron avionics technician attached to the 14th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, is the Wild Weasel of the Week at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Oct. 23, 2014. As an avionics tech, Amberson has the skills to fix over 20 different systems on the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Amberson has been stationed at Misawa for two years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alyssa C. Wallace)

Wild Weasel of the Week: Staff Sgt. Kevin Amberson

Each week a member of the 35th Fighter Wing is selected as the Wild Weasel of the Week. This individual is recognized based on superior performance, outstanding work ethic, and overall good conduct and discipline.

The 35th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron chose Staff Sgt. Kevin Amberson, avionics technician from Upland, California, to be their Wild Weasel of the Week.

What's your daily mission?
As an avionics technician, I must be proficient at fixing over 20 different systems on the F-16 -- whether it is changing out a single part or troubleshooting an entire system down to a broken wire or harness. Maintaining the aircraft allows me to put iron in the sky, boost our stats and crank out sorties.

What do you enjoy about your job?
The opportunity to train and mentor young Airmen, and help them develop the skills needed to be a successful avionics technician. Recently I had the opportunity to train Airmen from different career fields on how to assist in reconfigurations of the F-16 so that as a unit, we can be ready to fight tonight.

Why did you choose to serve in the military?
To help further my education, provide a stable life for my family, and hopefully, reach the magical day when I can retire.

What is your favorite thing about being in Japan?
I really enjoy watching my children interact off base at the festivals. Being able to eat new foods and learn new aspects of the Japanese culture is fun for my family and me.

Who is your favorite mentor and what did you learn from them?
Tech. Sgt. DiNardo and Staff Sgt. Simmons have been an example to me for over three years. They have been involved in my career since I came out of technical school as an airman first class. They showed me what it means to work hard and be dedicated to mastering my craft.

Time in Misawa: 2 years

Time in military: 5 years 10 months

What goalsdo you have while stationed at Misawa?
I would like to advance to the rank of technical sergeant while here at Misawa and continue to pursue my B. A. in Exercise Science.