Working in the field of aviation is an exciting and somehow challenging journey. It’s filled with so many possibilities, and it’s basically up to you to harness your potential in securing an excellent career in this field. But, aside from the thrill of embarking on this journey, it’s also one with high risks. So, you have to ensure that you’ve put adequate thought into working in aviation. This is something you should want to do, and not merely an after-thought.
Working as a pilot isn’t the only career in aviation you can apply for. There are so many—from flight attendants to aircraft technicians, aviation engineers, ground staff, air traffic controllers, and quality control personnel. Select a specific job you know you can be passionate about, and that you’ll enjoy doing for a long time.
If you’re eager to pursue the possibilities in the field of aviation, below is a helpful guide that might help you along the way:
1. Learn About The Job Diligently
Before you even take formal education or training for the aviation job you’re interested in, it’s paramount that you’ve given yourself a strong background or foundation about the job. Be very specific about your background study.
For instance, if you’ve long dreamed of becoming a flight attendant, know as much as you can about the job. That way, when your training starts, you’re not left groping in the dark. With adequate research, you already know what to expect.
Your research should include learning the skills needed in becoming a flight attendant. This also involves networking and taking the time to learn the basics.
As with any occupation, a person must always be willing to learn new things and revisit important information you may have already gathered before.
Those who are constantly seeking out tips while pursuing a career in aviation will have greater chances of being consistently successful in their chosen field of specialization.
2. Obtain Necessary Credentials And Licenses
Depending on the specific career in aviation you’d like to achieve, some will require more training and skillsets than others.
For instance, pursuing a career as an air traffic controller will have its respective educational and license requirements different from a pilot’s.
So, it’s a good idea to search for excellent, reputable, and accredited schools where you can obtain your necessary education, training, and licenses. This will give you a good foundation for the profession you wish to attain.
Also, you’ll have to get the required years of study needed before you can work in your chosen career.
3. Undergo The Required Internship And Training
For pilot school, your required internship will most likely be related to the number of flying hours you have to complete before being awarded your specific licenses—officially allowing you to fly a plane.
When it comes to air traffic control, for instance, many professionals begin by obtaining an internship. This internship will allow an individual to get the hands-on training needed to become one of the most qualified workers in the field.
Several companies offer internships, and all you have to do is look for one within your vicinity and on various platforms including but not limited to LinkedIn.
Also, it’s important to highlight that even when an internship or added training isn’t required but offered by your school, don’t miss out on the opportunity.
Allow yourself to be trained by experts. Added skills and certifications will get you hired faster among a sea of competitors once you graduate.
4. Develop Your Interpersonal Skills
Obtaining a job as an air traffic controller, pilot, mechanic, or flight attendant requires a person to have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
This is because an air controller is responsible for communicating with other air traffic controllers in the field, and reporting any possible problems that may arise. Bad communication skills will only lead to serious mistakes brought about by miscommunication.
For flight attendants and pilots, good interpersonal skills are also needed in their kind of job where they’re exposed to different people with different languages, cultural and religious beliefs, all in one aircraft.
You can perform your job better in the aviation and hospitality industry when you know how to communicate effectively with people you come across every working day.
Conclusion
As you’ve read from this guide, there are many things you have to do and keep in mind in your pursuit of a career in aviation. These tips can range from basic preparation and study to hands-on skills you need to acquire. While these tips may not apply to everyone, they can certainly help you in determining whether an aviation career is something you’re passionate about achieving.
