Structures Technician – Career Paths – A Guide to Aircraft Structures
If you have a fascination with the workings of airplanes and possess a talent for hands on technical work then pursuing a career as an aircraft structures technician could be an excellent match for you. These skilled professionals play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and airworthiness of every aircraft that takes flight.
What does an Aircraft Structures Technician do?
Aircraft structures technicians are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of components of an aircrafts structure, including the fuselage, wings, tail, and landing gear.
Their tasks encompass a range of activities such as:
- Examining aircraft structures meticulously to detect any damage or signs of wear.
- Employing techniques like welding, riveting and composite patching to restore damaged components.
- Adapting aircraft structures to meet requirements when necessary.
- Installing equipment and components.
- Conducting maintenance measures to ensure the longevity and reliability of aircraft structures.
The Skills Required for Success
To excel as an aircraft structure technician it is vital to possess a foundation in the following areas:
- Mechanical skills: Proficiency in utilizing hand tools, power tools and specialized equipment is crucial.
- Problem solving skills: The ability to identify issues, with aircraft structures accurately and troubleshoot them effectively is essential.
- Paying attention to even the smallest details is crucial in aviation as any mistake can have significant consequences.
- Having good mathematical skills is important to perform calculations that ensure the integrity of aircraft components.
- Effective communication skills are necessary for interacting with other technicians, engineers and inspectors.
Education and training requirements
There are a few different paths you can choose from to become an aircraft structures technician.
The common options include:
- Pursuing an associates degree in aviation maintenance technology: This program will provide both knowledge and practical skills needed for working on aircraft structures.
- Completing a FAA approved aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) program: These programs usually take around 12 18 months to finish and lead to obtaining the FAA A&P mechanic license, which’s essential for working on aircraft structures in the United States.
- Gaining experience in the military: Military training offers opportunities for learning about aircraft maintenance and veterans, with relevant experience often transition into civilian careers as aircraft structures technicians.
Career Path and Growth Opportunities
With experience and additional training individuals in the field of aircraft structures can pursue paths for career advancement:
- Advancing to a technician role: As a lead technician you’ll supervise other technicians and take on more responsibility for complex repairs and modifications.
- Transitioning into quality control or inspection: Experienced technicians can move into roles that involve ensuring the quality of aircraft structures and repairs.
- Specializing in a type of aircraft or system: Many technicians choose to specialize in working on specific types of aircraft such as commercial airliners, military jets or helicopters.
- Pursuing teaching or consulting opportunities: With experience and knowledge some technicians opt to share their expertise by teaching at aviation schools or working as consultants.
Job Prospects
The median annual salary for aircraft structures technicians in the United States is $74,350. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment in the field is expected to grow by 4% from 2021 to 2031 which’s faster than the average growth rate across all occupations. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for air travel and the need for technicians to maintain aging aircraft fleets.
Is a Career as an Aircraft Structures Technician Suitable, for You? Are you interested in pursuing a career in the aviation industry that’s both challenging and fulfilling? Consider becoming an aircraft structures technician! This career path provides job stability, competitive salaries, and the chance to contribute to the safety of air travel. If you have a passion for aviation, have strong technical skills, and pay close attention to detail this could be an ideal profession, for you. Are you prepared to soar in your career? If so, contact us today!