Spacecraft Test Technicians

High School

You’ll need a strong background in science, mathematics, and computer science to be successful in this field, so take courses in algebra, trigonometry, calculus, physics, chemistry, programming, computer-aided design, and engineering. Shop classes will teach you how to use tools and build things, and English, writing, and speech will come in handy because spacecraft test technicians must write technical reports, give presentations, and work effectively with colleagues.

Postsecondary Education

Aspiring spacecraft test technicians can train for the field by attending a college or university, participating in an apprenticeship, by serving in the military, and, in increasingly rare cases, training on the job after high school.

For those who pursue the college route, a minimum of an associate’s degree in engineering technology, electronics, materials science, general science, or a related field is required. Those with a bachelor’s degree in one of these aforementioned fields have an enhanced chance of being hired and promoted.

Some aspiring technicians train for the field by completing an apprenticeship program in electronics, engineering technology, laboratory science, or a related field. Apprenticeship programs are free, and students get paid while they learn. Visit https://www.apprenticeship.gov for information about apprenticeships.

A significant percentage of spacecraft test technicians received their training in the U.S. military or other armed forces around the world. Those who pursue this route will need to augment their education with classes or specialty certificates in their occupational field. Here are a few of the careers that you can receive training for in the U.S. armed forces. Visit TodaysMilitary.com to learn more.

• electrical instrument and equipment repairer
• flight engineering technician
• precision instrument and equipment repairer
• software developer
• space operations specialist

Certification

Certificate programs are available from colleges and universities, professional associations, and online learning platforms (OLPs). For example, Pennsylvania State University offers a certificate in space systems engineering. Students take classes such as Spacecraft Design; Space Propulsion and Power Systems; Satellite Communications Systems; Orbit and Attitude Control of Spacecraft; Astronautics; Fundamentals of Remote Sensing Systems; and Manufacturing Methods in Microelectronics. Contact postsecondary institutions and other providers for more information on educational offerings.

Other Education or Training

Spacecraft test technicians must engage in lifelong learning to keep their skills up-to-date and learn about new technologies and testing methods. Completing continuing education (CE) classes and webinars may also be required to renew one’s certification. Learning opportunities are provided by postsecondary institutions, OLPs (such as Coursera, Udemy, and edX), and professional associations. The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics is a major provider of CE opportunities, and offers instructor-led, Web-based, and home study training; correspondence courses; conference sessions; and webinars. Recent courses include Design of Experiments: Improved Experimental Methods in Aerospace Testing; Hypersonics: Test and Evaluation; and Aeroelastic Wind Tunnel Testing and Aeroelasticity Considerations for Non-Aeroelastic Tests.

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics offers an aerospace recruitment webinar series that provides an introduction to aerospace employers and advice on landing an internship or job. Recent employers discussed include SpaceX, The Aerospace Corporation, and the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. Visit https://www.aiaa.org/events-learning for more information.