Avionics systems are an integral part of aircraft design and have increased aircraft capability. Simply put, an avionics technician designs and implements the technologies that power aircrafts. As such, an avionics technician must be able to troubleshoot and diagnose complex aircraft systems, which may include repairing and maintaining components used for aircraft navigation and radio communications, weather radar systems, and other instruments and computers. And since a lot of time is spent repairing electronic systems, such as computerized controls, an avionics technician may be required to analyze and develop solutions to complex electronic problems.

Advances in computer technology, aircraft systems, and the materials used to manufacture airplanes have made an avionics career a highly technical one. To get on board, you’ll need to enroll in one of about 170 avionics schools certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Avionics schools offer focused, hands-on learning, enabling you to work in classrooms, on computers, in labs, and inside an actual cockpit to gain real-world skills. In fact, the FAA requires that avionics schools offer students a minimum of 1,900 actual class hours. Training at avionics schools normally lasts from 18 to 24 months and provides practical instruction with tools and equipment used on the job.

Currently, training at avionics schools places greater emphasis on technologies such as turbine engines, composite materials, and aviation electronics, which are increasingly being used in the construction of new aircraft. That’s why, in order to succeed in your avionics career, you’ll need to continually update your skills and knowledge of new technology as well as advances in aircraft technology.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians held about 142,000 jobs in 2004, most of which were at major airports near large cities. Median hourly earnings of the trained avionics technician were about $21.30 that same year, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $27.85. An avionics career is best for those who are prepared to master the intricacies of the aircraft and work with airframe and power plant technicians. Cross-training from avionics schools and the ability to work with complex aircraft systems provide the best job prospects. And, the avionics technician who is certified to remove or reinstall airplane equipment is in the greatest demand.

For an aircraft to function properly, all instruments must be in working order. Working as an aircraft technician or mechanic can be a very difficult job. For certification, it is necessary to join a school that teaches avionics. It is required that the person be a graduate from a college or school with a two or four year program. They also may take part in the opportunity for an apprenticeship program that extends over approximately four years. On-the-job training is a must before you can step foot on an aircraft to do repair work.

On the electrical side, completion of an electronic technician program and a few years of on-the-job-training may lead to a position as an electrical mechanic or technician. It’s their responsibility to ensure the proper operation of all equipment and instruments before an aircraft takes flight.

Technicians and mechanics make sure the pilots crew and passengers are safe. They have to be very thorough with every single thing they do. A problem can take several iterations of testing to be replaced or corrected. Every aspect should be completed correctly. For some intermittent problems, one will need to go to an expert with lots of experience to make a proper judgment on where the trouble really is.

Taking shortcuts isn’t an option for a technician. If a corner is cut anywhere, the aircraft’s safety is endangered. They will risk the grumbling from others over safety any day, even if it means the plane has to leave late. Sometimes, it could possibly mean grounding the aircraft if it is determined that an instrument needs replacing.

In order to minimize chances of serious injury, technicians must wear safety equipment. It is necessary to squeeze their way into some extremely small areas when checking for maintenance and repairs on aircraft. The job is tailored for someone who has attention to details. Everything has to be examined, from the first to the last piece.