Petaluma Electronics' Technician (ET) Training Centre (PCGP) in California.
Sammut is a member of the Squadron's base team responsible for the maintenance and repair of sophisticated electronics equipment, radio receivers and transmitters, radar, navigation equipment and computer equipment.
The 24-year old Junior Non-Commissioned Officer (JNCO) from Rabat was selected for the course for his interest in electronics and his aptitude for fine and detailed mechanical work. The course included a required ability to solve practical mathematical problems quickly and accurately, and coupled with Sammut's practical experience on the Squadron's Diciotti-class P-61 offshore patrol vessel, all was of tremendous value in demonstrating his best mechanical or electrical trade qualities.
Training at the PCGP has course students covering topics such as electricity, physics, algebra, trigonometry and shop, however they all begin with classes in intensive electronic theory, and continue with more specialized instruction.
Lance Bombardier Sammut's 28-week apprentice-level electronics course was divided into seven units of instruction, with each unit dealing with different aspects of electronics fundamentals. The course kicks off with indoctrination and includes basic theory, safety, measurement, and troubleshooting techniques.
Technical training and instruction covered basic electronics, digital circuit theory and communication fundamentals, using advanced computer trainers and the communications equipment used throughout the US Coast Guard fleet. The course encompasses the use of test equipment, technical publications and troubleshooting methods used for corrective maintenance to the lowest repairable level.
Having graduated, Sammut now possesses the knowledge and skills necessary for advanced electronics classes, more on-the-job training programmes, and the performance of basic technical tasks. It will also provide him with the opportunity to perform AFM Maritime Squadron operations related to various technical specialties, including aids to navigation.