To become an aviation engineer, many start out as airframe mechanics, power plant mechanics, or both. There are many schools certified by the Federal Aviation Association in which to obtain a degree in aviation engineering and avionics-related degrees such as aviation maintenance and aviation technology. Avionic technicians require an FAA mechanics certificate awarded by a certified FAA mechanic program. Since there are many aspects of an aircraft to understand, it will take years to gain the necessary skills to become an aviation engineer.
The more education and training one receives will increase their chances of becoming employed. Those who become certified will see job opportunities greatly increase. Many states have aviation mechanic schools such as the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Westwood College of Aviation Technology.
Overall, aviation engineer jobs are expected to increase over the next decade because of numerous factors such as population growth. Do to the struggling economy many airlines have struggled to stay in business, which will hinder job prospects somewhat. When the economy suffers people tend to fly less and take fewer vacations. Aircraft technologies continually improve, so the next generation of aviation engineers is needed to advance the industry.
Job prospects may also be good in smaller airlines because the wages will tend to be lower than in larger airlines. Jobs in the aviation engineering field will increase faster than in years past. Advancement opportunities in aviation engineering are available and those who do show the necessary skills, enthusiasm, and dedication may become inspectors or may obtain executive positions. If one is interested, aviation engineers may want to also receive pilot licenses and become certified pilots.
Since there are airports and airplanes that fly from one end of the world to another being flexible will give you an advantage in landing your aviation engineering job. Whether it is in government agencies, manufacturing companies, or aerospace, each industry will need highly qualified, well-educated individuals.
Earnings for aviation engineers will depend on many factors such as location, experience, status of the economy, and overall skills. Aviation engineers can make from anywhere from $19–$35 per hour, which is very good. Those who work in scheduled air transportation will make the most on average. Also, those who work with jets will make more on average.
The Professional Aviation Maintenance Association, or PAMA, offers certification in aviation maintenance such as in positions like Aviation Maintenance Engineer (AME) and Aviation Maintenance Specialists (AMS).
There are also organizations dedicated to help those in aviation industries develop their skills. Some of these include the Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance, Women in Aviation, National Air Transportation Association, National Business Association, Helicopter Association International, and the Federal Aviation Association (FAA).
