Aviation Careers: More than Just Piloting
A career in aviation can take many forms. There's more to aviation than the person who flies the plane. Choose to become an aviation technician, air traffic controller, landing support staff, or flight attendant. Many aviation careers are highly specialized due to the rigorous safety standards surrounding flight. Depending on the career that appeals to you, you may be required to complete an education program and on-the-job training to meet safety standards.
Aviation maintenance technicians are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration and are trained safety specialists. Their responsibilities include performing routine maintenance on aircraft and troubleshooting problems on the aircraft body and engines. Aviation electronic technicians deal with the electronic systems that control the aircraft. Both careers require a degree from an Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved school. Degree programs can last between 18 and 24 months and upon completion, it is necessary for an aviation maintenance graduate to pass the FAA A&P exam before being certified. Both aviation maintenance and electronic technicians can work on any type of aircraft, including airliners, corporate jets, small planes, helicopters and space aircraft.
Air traffic controller are responsible for coordinating the movement of air traffic to ensure that planes stay a safe distance from each other during flight. Using radar and visual observation, air traffic controllers direct pilots into and out of airports and during their course of flight. They also advise pilots of weather and terrain conditions. Virtually all air traffic controllers are trained and employed by the federal government. Applicants must have three years of work experience or four years of college. They must pass a written exam that includes abstract reasoning and 3-dimensional spatial visualization to measure their ability to handle controller duties. Applicants must also pass a week of screening at the FAA Academy which includes aptitude tests and physical and psychological screenings.
Check out aviation education and training programs at Westwood College campuses in Denver North, Denver South. There are also professional aviation organizations such as the ATA, the Air Transport Association, or the American Association of Airline Executives.
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