Mention an aviation career and many people immediately think of airline pilots.
Piloting is certainly one of aviation’s most visible professions—but it is only one part of a much larger industry.
For young people interested in airplanes, technology, engineering, mechanics, or transportation, aviation offers an enormous variety of career possibilities.
Professional Pilots
There are many professional flying careers beyond the airlines.
Pilots may work in:
- Corporate aviation
- Charter operations
- Cargo
- Flight instruction
- Emergency services
- Agriculture
- Government
- Military aviation
- Aerial surveying
- Test flying
Each path requires different experience and qualifications.
Aircraft Maintenance
Aircraft cannot fly safely without skilled professionals who maintain them.
Aircraft mechanics and technicians work with engines, electrical systems, avionics, structures, flight controls, and other critical components.
For someone who likes solving mechanical problems and working with their hands, aircraft maintenance can be an excellent career path.
Aerospace Engineering
Engineers help design the aircraft and aviation systems of tomorrow.
Fields may include:
- Aerodynamics
- Propulsion
- Structural engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Software
- Avionics
- Materials
- Space systems
Today’s students may eventually work on aircraft technologies that have not even been invented yet.
Air Traffic Control
Air traffic controllers play a critical role in the aviation system by helping manage aircraft safely and efficiently.
The work requires communication, concentration, situational awareness, and the ability to make decisions quickly.
Airport and Aviation Management
Airports are complex organizations.
They require professionals in operations, administration, safety, planning, maintenance, security, customer service, and business development.
This creates aviation careers for people with many different skill sets.
Aviation Needs Many Talents
One of the most exciting things about aviation is that there is no single type of person who belongs in the industry.
Someone who loves flying may become a pilot.
Someone who enjoys building things may become a mechanic.
Someone fascinated by technology may pursue avionics.
Someone who enjoys science and mathematics may become an engineer.
Someone interested in business may manage an airport or aviation company.
Exposure Creates Possibilities
Programs such as Young Eagles, aviation scholarships, flight experiences, aircraft projects, and EAA chapter involvement help young people see these opportunities firsthand.
It is difficult to imagine yourself working in an industry you have never experienced.
That is why introducing young people to aviation matters.
At EAA Chapter 723, our interest goes beyond today’s airplanes and today’s pilots.
We want to help inspire the people who will shape aviation’s future.