Blue Angels Supervisor Molded by NATTC Training

NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA, Fla. (Aug. 2, 2024) – Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class Nick Kaminski epitomizes the transformative power of naval education and training. Originally from Maryland, Kaminski’s ascent to a supervisory role with the elite Blue Angels began when he joined the Navy in 2017. His journey took a significant turn after he attended the Airframes “A” School at Naval Air Technical Training Center (NATTC) in Pensacola, Florida, in March 2018.

Kaminski reflects on the impact of his training at NATTC. “The instructors and curriculum provided me with the essential theories and concepts of aviation, which I still rely on today,” he explains. NATTC’s rigorous curriculum and dedicated instructors laid the groundwork for his career in naval aviation.

Following his initial training, Kaminski was assigned to the “Vikings” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 in Whidbey Island, Washington. His career then led him to the “Diamondbacks” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 in Iwakuni, Japan. During service on the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), he completed two deployments, further honing his skills, especially in reading hydraulic schematics—an invaluable skill in troubleshooting complex maintenance issues.

In 2022, Kaminski applied to join the Blue Angels. Now a supervisor within the airframes work center, he acknowledges the foundational role of NATTC training in preparing him for the standards required by the Blue Angels. “The camaraderie and teamwork taught and displayed at NATTC are very similar to that at the Blue Angels and are necessities anywhere in the fleet,” Kaminski notes.

As the Navy evolves, foundational training through the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) remains crucial. NETC leverages cutting-edge learning science and technology to recruit and educate future Sailors, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for fleet success.

Kaminski’s journey from the classrooms of NATTC to supervising within the Blue Angels highlights the Navy’s dedication to creating a capable and resilient fleet through superior training and development.