Back shop faces Hydraulics, solvent and airplanes — oh my! Published March 16, 2011 By 2nd Lt. Katie Batchelder 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE,Calif -- People may wonder what goes on behind-the-scenes to prepare an aircraft to function safely, efficiently and correctly. A big part of the behind-the-scenes preparation takes place at the hydraulic back shop, where things get messy. The hydraulic back shop team is responsible for breaking down the internal hydraulic parts of C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster IIIs and testing, troubleshooting and rebuilding them. They also perform scheduled periodic inspections on C-17 Globemasters and KC-10 Extenders on a weekly basis. In 2010 the team repaired, tested and assembled 338 aircraft parts. The team follows detailed safety precautions, because when they take apart brakes and other internal parts of the aircraft, they are exposed to oil, grease and hydraulic fluid that can physically harm them. On top of that, and the reason why this job would be undesirable to most, is that the job requires more time and attention to detail in order to prevent mishaps that could cause the loss of life or damage aircraft. According to his supervisor, Staff Sgt. Travis Teeters, 60th Maintenance Squadron hydraulic systems craftsman, is one individual who shines in the hydraulic shop. "I actually love being here, working with people in this shop and getting to work with my hands," said Sergeant Teeters. "We don't sit around, we work hard all day long and we don't leave until the job is done." "Sergeant Teeters has shown great initiative and motivation," said Tech. Sgt. Matthew Stechelin, supervisor."He is a very quick learner with a great attitude and I've been nothing but impressed by his work ethic." Although the hydraulic back shop is out of view of what people see at Travis, it is surely a much needed and respected part of the mission.