Career Spotlight: Hands on

After four years of college and a stint in the Marine Corps, Weyrich is now an assembly and test technician at GE Aviation. He works on the Boeing 737 Max and the Airbus A320, after graduating with certificates in aviation maintenance technology and aviation electronics technology from the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA). “I’ve seen a lot of people go through a two-year school and get out in the industry and make just as much money, if not more, than a four-year-school graduate,” he said.

Avionics technicians test, maintain, and produce aviation electronics—which could include missile guidance systems, jet engines, and flight-control circuitry—as well as the old reliable systems on your GA piston airplane. Much of an avionics job is preventive: caring for the systems that keep aircraft safe and pilots safer. Technicians can often work unusual hours, providing maintenance and support when needed, as needed.

Russell Wheatley is an avionics technician for Dynamic Aviation and is also a graduate of PIA. “Last year we did a lot of installs. The biggest thing recently has been ADS-B [automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast] systems. We put it into all our planes. Being able to install a system, turn it on, and have it all work is great.

“Learning to do paperwork correctly is a big thing. I write a ton of 337s [FAA forms for major repairs and alterations to an airframe, powerplant, propeller, or appliance]. Also, being able to go through the AC 43.13, a general practices manual. Old army birds don’t have the greatest manuals.”

“Many graduates find high-paying jobs at avionics manufactures, airlines, fixed-based operations, service centers, and electronic and avionics accessory shops,” said Mindy L. Pavilonis, associate director of career services at PIA. “With the technological advancements gaining exponentially, and the demand for highly trained individuals, the demand for avionics technicians is growing steadily.” FT

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