As an aerospace communication technician, you'll design, maintain, and modify the instruments and equipment used for communication during all phases of flight. The devices that allow this crucial communication are called avionics (aviation electronics). Avionics include radios and mobile communication units and are found onboard aircrafts and in support vehicles on the ground.
You'll be part of a team that includes pilots, engineers, air-traffic controllers, and other technicians. Members of this team will be in constant contact with each other from before takeoff until after landing, and all points in between. You may work for the commercial airline or aircraft manufacturing industries, or for the armed forces. In the armed forces, you may be assigned to defense projects that will require you to have top-secret security clearance.
Tasks may include:
- Monitoring communication systems before, during, and after flight
- Designing, installing, and maintaining avionics and other equipment used for air-to-air and air-to-ground communication
- Adjusting existing equipment to work with modifications to an aircraft
- Repairing malfunctioning equipment
- Working under severe time constraints to meet flight schedules
Degree Requirements:
Minimum two-year degree in aerospace technology or related field
Skills Required:
- Strong computer, science, and math skills
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Technical problem-solving ability
- Interest in learning about and using new technologies
- Ability to work as part of a team