Exploring trade jobs in aviation

I'm interested in jobs related to aviation that don't require a four-year degree. Are there specific trades within aviation that are in demand right now? What kind of training or certification would I need to pursue these roles?

Absolutely, there are many career paths in aviation that do not require a four-year degree. Two of the most in-demand trades right now are aircraft mechanic and avionics technician.

Aircraft mechanics, also known as Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanics, perform the maintenance and repair of aircraft. They ensure that aircraft are safe and well-maintained according to federal regulations. Avionics technicians, on the other hand, specialize in the electronic systems of an aircraft, such as radio communication, navigation systems, and flight control systems.

To qualify for these roles, you'll most likely need to attend a dedicated technical institute or trade school that offers federally-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) programs.

For the A&P mechanic, upon completing the necessary coursework, you'll need to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams to receive certification. An A&P certificate comes with separate licenses (airframes and powerplants), and the FAA requires 18 months of experience for each license. However, if you'd like to get both licenses, the FAA requires 30 months of experience working with both airframes and powerplants. Many choose to work with an authorized aviation maintenance technician school to satisfy this experience requirement.

Similarly, to become an avionics technician, you are required to receive formal training, either by attending an avionics technician school or an avionics electronic technician program, which often lasts 1-2 years. Then, certification is typically achieved by getting a private FCC license, or through the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies.

One thing to note is that some employers favor mechanics who have received both their A&P certification and avionics technician certification, as this breadth of skills can be handy in the field.

These trades are often in high demand, as the aviation industry requires a constant supply of qualified mechanics and technicians to maintain and repair their rapidly evolving fleets. It's also worth noting that due to the specificity of the skills required, these roles often offer competitive salary levels and benefits.