Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Career Snapshot
Aerospace engineering is concerned with flying to the very edge of the earth's atmosphere, and even to outer space. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians contribute to the design and development of systems and vehicles used in commercial aviation, national defence, and space exploration.
They help engineers and scientists with many of the hands-on duties associated with aerospace production and quality control. Technicians, for example, install and maintain systems that launch, direct, and land aircraft and space spacecraft. Prototypes are frequently assembled by technicians. Furthermore, they may create testing methodologies to ensure that the prototypes work properly and fulfil quality standards.
Precision tools, computers, and other high-tech instruments are employed. The majority of the work is done indoors, in labs, offices, or industrial plants; nevertheless, technicians are occasionally required to work outside.
Most firms prefer to hire candidates who have completed at least a two-year associate degree in engineering technology. Colleges, vocational schools, and the armed forces all offer programmes. On-the-job training is provided.
Because most technicians operate as part of a team, effective communication skills are essential, as is the ability to perform under pressure. This profession requires meticulous attention to detail as well as the ability to comprehend technical documents and designs. Work that is careful and methodical saves lives.
It's been more than a century since man learned to fly, yet watching a spaceship take to the skies is still breathtaking.