What is a "Fitter (gen)"

[Mason]

What does the RAF/RFC role "Fitter (gen)" mean? 

What sort of roles would they typically do? 

Was this a specialist trade?

Did they work with aircraft?

[RFT]

The following is my understanding of Fitter (gen):-

Fitter (gen/general) was a specific trade in its own right, opposed to that of a Fitter (aero engine), Fitter (mechanical transport), Fitter (insrument) and Fitter (jig & tool maker).

A Fiiter (general) was employed as a general Mechanic, and who would have worked with all manner of machinery including pumps, trailers, lifting gear, winches etc.  Such a trade was usually (but not exclusively) employed on ordinary station work.

Fitter (aero engine) worked specifically with aircraft engines however a general Fitter may well have been called upon to assist where and when the need arose.

The trade was invariably shown after the rank in all documents or papers relating to airmen, typically - Aircraftman, 1st Class (Fitter, gen), Aircraftman 1st Class (Fitter, Aero engine).

Hoping the above is of some assistance.

Rob

Edited 27 June , 2023 by RFT
Updated text.

[Major Claves]

  Fitters(Gen) typically worked in workshops on the station and skills would include welding, copper-smithing, turning etc. They might be called upon to repair parts of aircraft, in welding or rivetting for example, or the manufacture of parts not available from stores but for which drawings were, using a lathe or other machine tool.