JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
When people think of heating, ventilation and air conditioning, most would think of the air conditioning units in their homes and offices.
The 628th Civil Engineer Squadron HVAC section is responsible for preserving some of the base’s most important systems.
“One of our top priorities is maintaining the cooling systems for the communication equipment on base,” said Tech. Sgt. Reginald Hart, 628th CES HVAC supervisor. “The cooling system helps keep the infrastructure from overheating.”
Other major facilities maintained by the HVAC shop include the ventilation systems for the 437th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron corrosion control facility and the fuel cell. Ventilating the paint hangar and fuels depot ensures toxic fumes aren’t breathed in by the members working in those facilities.
“Ensuring these systems function could mean whether a mission is successful or not,” said Hart. “Our job may not have a direct impact, but our mission helps guarantee the missions around base can be done.”
Another of Joint Base Charleston’s larger missions is executing the Air Mobility Command’s global reach airlift capability by C-17 Globemaster III aircraft. These aircraft fly at all times of the day to carry out their assignments. The flightline is illuminated up at night to ensure pilots can take off and land safely.
“Landing or taking off for our aircraft would be more difficult at night without the lights we have on the airfield,” said Monzon. “Ensuring we maintain the temperatures in these systems helps make sure they are always operating efficiently.”
On most days the HVAC section members also work on the heating and cooling systems for the housing and office buildings on base.
“We may work a Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. job, but we stay on site until we finish, no matter how late we have to stay,” said Senior Airman Daniel Monzon, 628th CES HVAC technician. “It can be difficult when you’re stuck in an attic that is over 100 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour or more. You’re freezing when you finally get outside because of the temperature change. Everyone in the shop helps each other to ensure we get our jobs done as quickly and as efficiently as possible.”
These Airmen have a role in maintaining the climate control to almost every building on base. Having the camaraderie to interact and work with each other helps to ensure Joint Base Charleston continues to operate effectively.
“It feels good to know how vital we are to the installation,” said Hart. “This shop is filled with great individuals who are willing to come in every day and make sure the mission never stops.”