Becoming an operations technician requires an associate’s degree or vocational training in aerospace engineering, with some positions requiring an undergraduate or master’s degree. Military service can also lead to civilian positions. Certification may be required, and technicians work with industry tools and computers to troubleshoot and assemble aircraft. Good teamwork and interpersonal skills are important.
You can become an operations technician by completing an associate’s degree or vocational training in the field of aerospace and aeronautical engineering. Some positions in the field may require an undergraduate or master’s degree in aerospace engineering, however, most technicians learn their craft through experience after completing a two-year entry level. To become an operations technician, you must have an interest in working in the maintenance, assembly, and testing of aerospace machines and aircraft.
While most of the education needed to become an operations technician can be obtained through a combination of community college classes and professional training, it is also possible to obtain the position through military service in one of the branches of the military in your area. . At the end of the military experience, individuals can continue to work as civilians in private companies or for the government. Working on aerospace defense projects for the government may have additional qualifications needed to become an operations technician, such as passing security clearance. If you’re interested in the field and you’re still in school, it can be important and helpful to get a solid background in math, science, electronics, and computer programming.
Certification to become an operations technician is possible through regional professional organizations such as the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. Some regions may require certification, but some regions only require certification for aerospace engineers. The certification process is a combination of an exam and required courses. Operations technicians are employed by public and private sector companies at institutions such as aerospace companies, the military, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The government employs military personnel and civilian contractors as technicians.
Operations technicians use industry tools and computers to record aircraft and machine test data, troubleshoot problems and ensure functionality. As a technician, you would work closely with other team members and engineers to assemble aircraft and build diagnostic equipment. You would work to adjust the aircraft’s instrumentation panels and equipment, and create and install parts in the machines. Skills like problem solving, critical thinking, and dexterity are important in working as an operations technician.
The complex nature of aircraft assembly means that good teamwork is essential to being an operations technician. Interpersonal skills are almost as important as knowledge and on-the-job experience in becoming an operations technician. In addition to assembling aircraft, technicians can also create technical specification reports with engineers and help perform lab tests on new equipment.
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