Olando Holman was fresh out of high school with a knowledge and interest in electronics, and knew that he wanted to do something in that nature. Though college was never in his original plan, a good of friend of Holman’s told him that the local college, MGTC, had a Co/Op program with Robins Air Force Base (RAFB) for electronics, driving him to enroll. “I signed up and here I am,” Holman sates.
He recalls several people who influenced him along he way.
“My Grandfather, Carlos Gonzales, a Navy WWII veteran, taught me to never give up and be the best in whatever you do. A family friend, Air Force veteran, Lou Contrell, taught me the meaning of hard work. Walter Walker, Northside high school instructor, taught me electronics and the field of industrial technologies. I can honestly say without them being an influence in my life, I wouldn’t be who I am today.”
Before RAFB, Holman worked two jobs as a manager at a pizzeria and as a part-time construction worker. Currently, at RAFB, he is an electronic mechanic where he is responsible for the repairs and maintenance of the LRUs and SRUs on the UHF ARC-164 radio. Throughout Holman’s career, he was able to become certified to operate and maintain all ATE systems, LRUs, SRUs, and mechanical testers that his shop had to offer. Beyond that, his additional duties are being a certified UserCal technician, monitor/POC of his shop’s Chemical Cabinet and Electro Static Discharge program, and training new hires on testing/troubleshooting procedures on the ARC-164 radio and subassemblies. Holman was recognized as the 402 Electronics Maintenance Group Civilian of the Quarter for Q1 (Jan-Mar) 2018.
Holman received his Associates Degree in Electronics Technology from Middle Georgia Technical College and has also received numerous electronic training courses while employed with the USAF/Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex. One day he would like to be a squadron director in the electronics complex and help grow the next generation of technicians.
“I take great pride in knowing that the electronic items I repair and return to serviceable condition are going into components and systems that support our United States Military aviation operations,” Holman shares. “It is a great feeling knowing that those that defend our great nation are counting on me to provide them with accurate and serviceable electronic items so they can perform their mission — securing peace and freedom.”
