Mechanical Engineering 
Ever-new frontiers are unfolding for the mechanical 
engineer. Coordinating, applying, and developing 
an immense variety of mechanical equipment is the job 
of the Forest Service Mechanical Engineer. His 
responsibilities fall into two major areas: Equipment 
management and equipment development 
and testing. 
The equipment manager must select the right equipment 
for every transportation, construction, or maintenance 
job. He is responsible for purchase, maintenance, 
replacement, and general management of one 
of the Nation‘s largest fleets of equipment. 
His assignments constantly challenge his professional 
ability and growth, thus making him a valuable 
member of the pioneer team. 
If the job requires machinery or equipment that is 
not available, the Forest Service must develop its own. 
Mechanical engineers at Equipment Development 
Testing Centers, work with major equipment producers 
in the United States and abroad, choosing either 
to modify existing equipment or to develop new designs. 
Systems analysis techniques are frequently employed. 
Development of standards for equipment, and the 
testing and evaluation of commercially produced items 
are important Equipment Development Center 
activities of Mechanical Engineers. Examples of past 
accomplishments include devices for release of 
fire-retardant chemicals, insecticides and herbicides 
from aircraft, and salmon spawning bed improvement 
devices. Most of the fire control equipment now used 
by the Forest Service and others was built in accordance 
with design features originated by Mechanical Engineers 
at Equipment Development Centers. Construction 
and transportation equipment are other examples 
offering wide pioneering opportunities. 
EQUIPMENT 
DEVELOPMENT 
CENTER : 
PO siAssca 
