Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Avionics Schools Get Technical

Are you fascinated by the science of flight? Curious about the power behind the propeller? Avionics schools can provide answers to your questions and put you on the path to a captivating career and a lifetime of learning.

Avionics Schools: Science in the Sky
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.

Practical Education at Avionics Schools
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.

Avionics Schools Launch In-Demand Careers
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.

Get your hands on the nuts and bolts of aviation at avionics schools.



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