Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Aviation Careers
For many military personnel, transitioning back to civilian life post-service entails substantial changes, especially in their career path. This often leads to the pertinent question - What next? One promising avenue that has seen significant traction in recent years is the aviation sector. Veterans pursuing aviation careers experience a smooth transition because of their unparalleled discipline, valuable skill sets, and extensive training.
The Aviation Industry - A Promising Path for Veterans
The aviation industry offers a diverse range of compelling career options for veterans transitioning to civilian life. Among these are:
- Aircraft mechanics
- Commercial or private pilots
- Air traffic controllers
- Aviation safety inspectors
- Flight instructors
Given the parallels between military and aviation requirements - including precision, punctuality, dedication, safety consciousness, and teamwork - veterans often find themselves well-suited to these roles.
Aircraft Mechanics
Veterans with a background in aircraft maintenance and repair can find rewarding opportunities as aircraft mechanics in the civilian sector. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for this role was $64,090 (roughly €57,100) annually in 2020.
Commercial or Private Pilots
Flying is one of the most exciting civilian aviation careers. Veterans with flight experience have the unique advantage of transitioning to this role. They must, however, complete certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In 2020, the median pay for airline and commercial pilots stood at $160,970 (around €143,600) per year.
Air Traffic Controllers
This role requires managing the movement of aircraft to ensure safety. Military air traffic control experience translates directly into this civilian role. The median annual pay for air traffic controllers was $130,420 (approximately €116,300) in 2020.
Aviation Safety Inspectors
Job responsibilities include inspecting aircraft, appraising maintenance, reviewing operational practices, and checking air carrier training programs. Veterans who are used to high-stakes decision-making often excel in this role.
Flight Instructors
Veteran pilots can also pass on their expertise and flying knowledge to aspiring pilots as flight instructors. This role provides the satisfaction of molding the next generation of pilots.
Resources for Transitioning to Civilian Aviation Careers
Military veterans have a multitude of resources at their disposal to aid in their transition to civilian aviation careers. Some such resources are:
Military.com: This platform offers a wealth of resources, including job search options, advice on career transitioning, and connection with veteran-friendly employers.
GI Bill: Through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, veterans can avail education benefits to pursue a degree, vocational, or technical training programs, including those related to aviation.
The Future Outlook for Veterans in Aviation Careers
According to the FAA's Annual Aerospace Forecast Report, the outlook for aviation careers is bright, with steady growth projected over the next 20 years. This positions veterans in aviation careers favorably for the future.
Final Words
Transitioning to civilian life marks a significant chapter in a veteran’s life. It represents a time of change, opportunities, and challenges. The aviation sector offers a broad array of rewarding career paths that leverage the skills and experiences gained during military service. Thus, for veterans seeking a career that values their unique skill set, the sky is the limit in civilian aviation careers.
