| Avionics literally means "aviation electronics." Avionics technicians are the ones who design and implement the technologies that power aircraft. At avionics schools, technicians are trained in avionics systems, cables and cabling, computers and digital concepts, amplifiers, interfacing, antennas and transmission lines, components, mathematics, network topologies and infrastructures, interpersonal relations, optical cabling, safety, test equipment and tools, satellite communications, and avionics troubleshooting. With this training from avionics schools, technicians are authorized to check, repair, and maintain electronic components used for aircraft navigation and radio communications, weather radar systems, and other instruments that control flight, engine, and other key functions. Avionics technicians who service transmitting equipment (radios or radar) must hold Federal Communications Commission radiotelephone license. The General Radiotelephone Operator license is issued based on passing an exam that tests knowledge of radio transmissions, basic electricity, and radar. In addition, avionics technicians typically need to obtain certifications from associations such as the National Association of Radio and Telecommunications Engineers, the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians, or the Electronics Technicians Association International. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median hourly earnings of avionics technicians were about $21.30 in May 2004, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $27.85. Learn more about avionics, and watch your career take flight. |
