OAK HARBOR, Wash. – Aviators in the U.S. Navy fly some of the most technologically-advanced aircraft in modern history. The driving force behind keeping naval aviators safely in the air are the maintainers on the ground making repairs and ensuring the aircraft are mission-ready.
Petty Officer 1st Class Kanin Wadsworth, a native of Tucson, Arizona, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW), aboard Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Wadsworth joined the Navy 11 years ago. Today, Wadsworth serves as an aviation electronics technician.
“I joined the Navy because I wanted to pursue a career working on aircraft while also traveling around the world.,” said Wadsworth. "The Navy provided me all the skills necessary for my future in avionics electronics."
FRCNW is the premier intermediate maintenance activity of the Pacific Northwest. With more than 1,000 sailors, civilian and contractor personnel, FRCNW provides intermediate and more sophisticated depot-level repair of more than 12,500 different aviation components. Repair services are provided for jet engines, airframes, avionics, armament, aviation life support systems, ejection seats and more than 2,300 pieces of support equipment directly supporting 22 local and deployed squadrons, 10 aircraft carriers, three overseas operational sites and numerous Pacific Northwest Regional commands and activities.
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Wadsworth serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”
Wadsworth has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“I am most proud of the impact I have made on my fellow sailors,” said Wadsworth. " Being able to teach and guide them to achieve their goals, both professionally and personally, is rewarding all in itself."
Wadsworth can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving in the Navy means everything to me,” said Wadsworth. "I knew from the moment I signed the dotted line that this was not going to be a short-term decision. This was my chance at securing a future for myself and my family."
Wadsworth is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I want to thank my mom and dad, Sabrina Deitchler and Paul Wadsworth, for raising me right and pushing me to become a better person,” added Wadsworth. "I also want to thank my wife, Stefanie, for her love and support."