HE may only be 17, but Huw Jones already knows plenty about leadership.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Koroit teenager has been named as a school captain at Warrnambool College for 2017.
He steps into the role with leadership background obtained from five years as a member of the 413 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) unit in Warrnambool.
Huw joined the ranks in 2012 as a 13-year-old and has advanced to Cadet Sergeant.
His journey has become an example the 413 squadron hierarchy use to show what being a part of the group can do.
On Thursday, March 2, the 413 squadron will be having a recruit intake night at their base at the army barracks on Pertobe Road.
The night will provide possible recruits with all the information they need about what becoming a member of 413 squadron involves.
While the 413 squadron will be actively seeking recruits, Huw is perhaps their best advertisement.
“I love being part of the squadron,” Huw said.
“There is so much to do and something that suits everyone.
“There is the aviation side of things and we also do field craft, learning about the bush, things like navigation and orientation.
“And we are one of the only squadrons in Victoria that has a drum corp.”
Huw became involved in the 413 squadron through a keen interest in aviation, something he shares with his father.
He decided he wanted to learn more about aircraft and put aside a shy nature to turn up to 413 squadron training.
“It was a bit intimidating as a 13-year-old,” Huw said.
“I really didn’t know anyone so I was certainly out of my comfort zone.
“But everyone was really supportive from the start and that helped me settle in quickly.
“The social side of it has been great, I have made a lot of friends.”
As a now senior member of the 413 squadron, Huw can look back at his formative years and use the memories of those tentative steps as a way to help others.
“I see the new kids coming in and I look at them and think that’s what I was like,” he said.
“It’s nice to help them feel welcome and grow their confidence. I am looking forward to progressing that leadership stuff this year.”
A career in the air force is an option Huw is considering beyond his high school studies. He said 2018 may involve a gap year in the air force, a chance to get an even closer look at what is on offer.
The 413 squadron trains each Thursday night during school terms from 6.30pm to 9.30pm.
