Career opportunities for ex-military aircraft engineers

I'm interested in aircraft engineering and wonder what career opportunities exist for ex-military aircraft engineers in the civilian sector. What industries or positions should I be looking into, and are there any certifications required?

Ex-military aircraft engineers can pursue an array of opportunities across different sectors. They have a unique set of skills, developed in an environment that emphasizes precision, high stakes decision-making, and effective teamwork. Here are a few key industries and positions that you could consider:

1. Aerospace industry: This is a natural choice for ex-military aviators looking to transfer their skills to civilian roles. You might work on aircraft maintenance and repair, design, or systems testing. Major aerospace companies, such as Boeing or Lockheed Martin, would find your expertise valuable.

2. Private and Commercial airlines: Airlines require experienced technicians to maintain and repair their fleets. The wide range of aircraft types and specific maintenance demands can make this sector particularly interesting.

3. Consulting firms: Consultants in the defense and aerospace sectors often come from military backgrounds. Your on-the-ground experience could be extremely valuable in advising clients on operational efficiencies, regulatory compliance, and procurement decisions.

4. Federal agencies: Federal agencies such as NASA, FAA, and the Department of Defense also hire ex-military engineers for numerous roles related to aerospace and aviation.

As for certifications, the certification that's likely most recognized is the FAA's Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license. This certification showcases your knowledge in maintaining and repairing aircraft engines, in addition to an understanding of their components and systems. Many civilian aircraft maintenance jobs require the A&P certification, and some technical schools and colleges offer programs that focus specifically on preparing students for the FAA's exams.

You might also look into Project Management Professional (PMP) certification if you're interested in taking a leadership role. Lastly, if you're interested in a transition to a new field, such as cybersecurity in aviation or aeronautical data analysis, you might need additional specialized training or education.

Remember that potential employers will be interested in the skills you've developed during your military service. Emphasize your technical ability, decision-making skills, discipline, and reliability to stand out in your applications and interviews.