Aeronautical and Aerospace Technicians

The U.S. Department of Labor predicts faster than average job growth for aerospace engineering and operating technicians, and average growth for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians through 2032. Technicians will continue to have opportunities as manufacturers seek to design quieter and more fuel-efficient aircraft. Some jobs will be created in the emerging unmanned aerial systems category.

More efficient production and testing methods (including using computational fluid dynamics software) and outsourcing commercial aviation maintenance work to foreign countries may reduce employment opportunities in the United States—especially at the low-skill end of the spectrum. On the other hand, some technicians work on projects related to national defense and require security clearances, which will keep these jobs in the United States.

Many aerospace manufacturers have broadened their production to include other areas of technology. The Aerospace Industries Association of America predicts aerospace companies will be looking for qualified technicians in laser optics, mission operations, hazardous materials procedures, production planning, materials testing, computer-aided design, and robotic operations and programming.