PMEL: The measurement of success

Published Feb. 1, 2008
By Staff Sgt. Richard Williams
27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The Air Force mission requires pinpoint accuracy in the face of the enemy. From bombs on target, to the equipment that gets them there, the precision required is as the saying goes, "Like splitting hairs."

To acquire this accuracy, Cannon Air Force Base turns to one agency, the 27th Special Operations Component Management Squadron Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory (PMEL), managed by Yulista Maintenance Inc.

The PMEL calibrates all Air Force owned test, measurement, and diagnostic equipment that supports weapons and support systems. The measurement standards are traceable through the Air Force Primary Standards Laboratory to the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

"Without accurate and traceable weapon and support system measurements, the Air Force combat and support missions would not be the best in the world," said Terry Splawn, the Cannon PMEL Manager.

"You might ask, 'How does PMEL affect me if I don't work in aircraft maintenance,' my answer is did you step on a scale for a weigh-in recently?" said Mr. Splawn.

The importance of the PMEL accuracy lies in the fact that aircraft maintenance is an exact science, said Maj. Ryan Rowe, 27th SOCMS commander.

"Test equipment must give an accurate reading and tools must exert the correct force when performing maintenance," said Major Rowe. "Improper readings by test equipment or improper force exerted by un-calibrated tools are a flight safety issue."

The accuracy and professionalism of Cannon's PMEL was tested recently when the shop underwent a rigorous six day inspection by two Air Force Metrology and Calibration Program Office evaluators from the 562nd Combat Sustainment Group of Heath, Ohio.

The PMEL was inspected in six different areas of precision measurement and all must pass to attain initial certification and be recertified every two years, said Splawn.

"Passing the AFMETCAL inspection is huge. It is like the Super Bowl for PMELs," said Major Rowe. "I am very proud of our PMEL team and offer my congratulations on a job well done."

PMEL had two individuals, Support Services Technician Bryan Kosier, and Quality Manager Kevin Catalfu who were lauded by the inspection team as "Noteworthy Performers" during the evaluation that took place January 22-30, said Splawn.

The PMEL mission is critical to the success of USAF air power. This is just one example of the pride and professionalism shown by Cannon's people everyday.