5 Exciting Careers In The Field Of Aviation

It takes a highly-skilled team of professionals to ensure the safe operation of an aircraft. Likewise, there are a variety of careers in the aviation industry that are essential to ensure planes are able to fly, take-off, and land safely. To work in the aviation field, you’ll need to have mechanical capabilities and good critical thinking skills, but in return, you’ll be rewarded with an interesting and exciting career path.

Avionics Technician

Leaders in the field of aviation have suggested that avionics technicians are currently one of the top occupations in the career field. These professionals install, test, inspect, repair, and adjust avionics equipment in aircraft. This equipment may include investigation, radio, missile control, and radar systems. Without the knowledge of avionics technicians, most high-tech and military planes would be unsafe.

Air Traffic Controller

If you are searching for a fast-paced and exciting career within the aviation industry, an air traffic controller may be the position for you. Air traffic controllers keep radar and radio contact with aircraft, direct the movements of planes at or to an airport, and keeps planes safe while they are in the air by preventing collisions. An air traffic controller must also be quick-thinking, as they will need to handle emergencies, unscheduled traffic, and unexpected events as they arise. You won’t need direct experience to move into a trainee position, but you will need to have a Bachelor’s degree and at least three years of work experience.

Airframe And Powerplant Mechanic

If your dream aviation career is to assemble the machinery that makes cross-country flights possible, a job as an airframe and powerplant mechanic (or an A&P) may be the job for you. Also known as aircraft maintenance technicians, these professionals inspect, perform, and supervise maintenance and alterations of aircraft or aircraft systems. In order to work in this field, you’ll have to hold a mechanic certification from the Federal Aviation Administration, and the required tests include knowledge tests and a practical exam.

Aviation Inspector

An aviation mechanic that has gained experience in the field may be able to move up to the position of aviation inspector. An aviation inspector will enjoy good job security because their work is required by the FAA. Airlines are required to regularly inspect planes, especially after they have gone through any overhauls, repairs, or maintenance. An aviation inspector will also examine airmen for certifications, airmen training programs, and the operational aspects of air carriers. This can be a lucrative career path for an experienced professional within the aviation industry.

Aerospace Engineer

The field of aerospace engineering is essential for the continued advancement of the aviation industry. Aerospace engineers develop control systems for aircraft and analyze new aircraft construction materials. Most aerospace engineers will concentrate on a single area within the field, such as flight mechanics, propulsion systems, or guidance and control systems. To work in this field, you’ll need to have earned at least a bachelor’s degree so that you can become an expert in aerodynamics, robotics, thermodynamics, and mechanics.