Roadster,
Whilst I would accept that the ranks of Junior and Chief Technicians are anomalous for some trades. That reflects the need for a more "simplified" rank structure, more understandable for those employed within them. Notwithstanding that, it might have done the RAF some good if all ranks and trades were standardised and maintained throughout the years. I ask one question only, in December 72 I was posted to RAF Akrotiri. The posting was dependant on my attending, and passing a Vulcan Airframe Q course. The course lasted around 5 weeks, had an exam and failure would have stopped my posting, and affected my career. Did MT techs! Mechs, Drivers etc have such courses ? Or was a posting to Akrotiri simply that from an MT point of view ? It would be interesting to see where non aircraft trades were subject to such courses and what effect they could have on career progression. I'm sure there must be some examples.
Smudge