Becoming an airline pilot is a career goal for many. Yet there are other wonderful careers in the world of aviation that can be just as fulfilling. If you have an interest in the future of flight, consider some of the other options that are available to you.

Aircraft Designer

If you like math and physics, an aerospace engineering degree might be right up your alley. With this degree in your pocket, you can become an aircraft designer. There is always a demand for safer, more economical aircraft. There are opportunities with some of the largest companies in the business, such as Boeing or Lockheed-Martin, as well as startups.

Aerospace Technician

All the equipment used on planes has to be tested. That’s the job of an aerospace technician. Duties may include installing, maintaining, or repairing equipment as well. Technicians play an important role in the research and development teams of aviation manufacturers. They need to have a strong understanding of all the plane’s systems.

Air Traffic Controller

If you can keep your cool and stay level-headed under pressure, air traffic control may be the right place for you. It’s a stressful job in an intense environment. It is also very rewarding in that the safety of hundreds of airplanes is in your hands. The best way to obtain this job is to connect with the FAA. They are responsible for the training and hiring of most air traffic controllers today.

Product Engineer

Both airplanes and air traffic control are run by computers today. And those computers need engineers to develop the hardware and the software. As an aviation product engineer, you will learn about very specific tech, such as an enhanced substitution module Sterling VA and a flight management system. This is a great career choice for anyone who enjoys writing code and flying planes.