Structures Technician – Composites – A Guide to Aircraft Structures
The aerospace industry is always pushing the boundaries of innovation and one area that is seeing development is the use of composite materials in aircraft structures. A crucial role in this process is played by aircraft structures technicians, who utilize their skills and expertise to craft lightweight, sturdy and long-lasting components that are essential for modern airplanes.
What exactly does an Aircraft Structures Composite Technician do?
Well, they are skilled professionals who specialize in fabricating assembling and repairing composite aircraft structures. These technicians work with a range of materials like carbon fiber, fiberglass, and Kevlar to create components such, as wings, fuselages, and tail sections.
Now lets discuss the responsibilities of an Aircraft Structures Composite Technician. It’s important to note that these duties can vary depending on their employer and specific role.
Common tasks involved in this role:
- Placing layers of composite materials in molds as per specifications
- Curing composite parts using ovens or autoclaves
- Machining and drilling composite parts
- Joining composite parts together through bonding techniques
- Conducting inspections to identify any defects in the composite parts
- Repairing any damages found in the composite components
To pursue a career as an aircraft structures composite technician having a high school diploma or its equivalent is typically required. Additionally, some experience working with materials is preferred. Many employers also value candidates who have completed technical training programs focused on composite fabrication or repair.
Apart from proficiency, effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are essential for aircraft structures composite technicians. They must also be capable of maintaining safety standards and performing tasks accurately within paced environments.
Benefits of being an aircraft structures composite technician:
- Job security: Given the growth of the aerospace industry skilled professionals in this field are, in high demand.
- Competitive salary: Experienced composite technicians can earn a favorable salary.
- Working with materials can be both challenging and fulfilling. It involves utilizing your skills to create parts that ensure the safe operation of aircraft.
- There may be opportunities for technicians to travel to different countries and work on aircraft projects.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the aerospace industry becoming an aircraft structures technician is an excellent choice. With the skills and training you can establish a satisfying career in this exciting field.
Additional Information:
- While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) offers certification programs for aircraft mechanics and technicians there isn’t a certification requirement for aircraft structures composite technicians.
- The American Society for Composites (ASC) provides training and certification programs tailored to composite technicians.
- The Society, for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering (SAMPE) also offers training and certification programs catered to those working with composites.