Warrior of the Week: Keeping base powered-up is this Airman’s passion

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachiah A. Roberson
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Electricity is essential for Air Force operations and the 319th Air Base Wing has a constant supply, thanks in part to the hard work of Airman Miranda Hamilton.

Hamilton, a 319th Civil Engineer Squadron electrical apprentice, is following her passion to becoming an electrician.

Hamilton joined the Air Force in June 2011, to explore the world away from her hometown of Pasco, Wash.

"I was learning a lot there, I was a licensed masseuse from Ancient Arts Massage School in Pasco," she said. "After that I decided to start learning to become an electrician."

But Hamilton felt that even with her studies and certifications, she wanted something more than a job; she wanted security.

"The Air Force stood out to me not only because of the travel and school opportunities it offers, but because I needed a good career," said Hamilton. "A lot of my family members are serving or have served in different branches, and they were pushing me to definitely go in the Air Force direction."

Having been in the Air Force for more than a year, Hamilton says she loves her job.

"I'm kind of lucky that I got a job that included my civilian interests," said Hamilton. "When my recruiter offered it to me I took it on the spot."

The job of an electrical apprentice consists of maintaining the power for all base facilities, working on interior and exterior lighting, managing airfield lighting and maintaining alarm systems on base.

"In my job the workflow rarely slows down; if there are no pressing issues, I am maintaining electrical devices on base and I love it," said Hamilton.

With any job, having great co-workers is sure to lessen the stress factor and help in crafting a healthy work environment.

"I love working with everyone in my shop, they make my job just that much better," said Hamilton.

As an electrician in training, Hamilton says she likes learning new things.

"Every day is like a challenge and it never gets old, I'm always learning something new in my job," said Hamilton. "It is a necessary job that I thankfully love to do," said Hamilton.