Bulldog in Action: Airman 1st Class Matthew Erickson

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Ralph Kapustka
  • 148th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DULUTH, Minn. --  

Rank and Name: Airman 1st Class Matthew Erickson

Duty Title: Avionics Flightline Technician, 148th Fighter Wing Maintenance Group

Hometown: Emmons, Minnesota

Why is serving in the Minnesota National Guard important to you?  I have always been interested in joining the military, it is something I always wanted to do.  I love helping people so I really like the state side of our mission...if our state is ever in need we get to go out and help out.  Looking out for our  country and patriotism were also key factors in wanting to join the Guard.

What military moment or accomplishment are you most proud of?  Graduating from the F-16 avionics course and receiving the Ace Award (the Ace Award is given to those students who receive a 100% on all ten block tests that are given during the four months of avionics training) and top graduate award.

What is the favorite part of your job?  I love the troubleshooting aspect of my job.  Recently it took us two weeks to find the root cause of a problem.  I love digging into things and solving the issue, it's like an intense puzzle.

What inspires you?  I don't ever want to let anyone down.  I always want to excel and help out in any way possible.  My grandpa and father are very inspirational to me as well.

What are your future goals?  I will be attending the University of Dubuque in Iowa studying professional aeronautics with the ultimate goal of becoming a pilot.  I would love to become a military pilot...If I have the right qualifications and they think I'm a good fit, I would love to do that someday.

What is your favorite part of being a member of the 148th Fighter Wing?  It is like a big family.  Being in our shop, we get to heckle back and forth...it is like a brotherly love type of thing.