Starting a career in the aerospace industry?

Question

I'm a freshman in college (mechanical engineering major), and I would like to eventually work with planes, designing them, or being an A&P mechanic or an avionics technician or something. I was just wondering what types of work I could do now in the aerospace industry to make some extra money and gain some experience. I applied for a job as an aircraft detailer and so far I have a good feeling that I'll get it. But just in case, I just wanted to know what else I could do, and if there are any career paths that I'm missing. Thanks!!

Answer 1

You could work at an FBO as a linesman (person who fuels the private aircraft or a desk clerk (usually one in the same). A&P's usually hire helpers to do grunt work like open inspection panels and retrieve parts etc and I'm sure avionics people do too. An FBO with a repair facility usually has a parts department as well (Think Autozone for airplanes). If you're close to a large airport, maybe try to get on as a baggage handler. Flight schools not co-located at an FBO generally hire a scheduler / desk person.

One more thing, if you decide to go the A&P or avionics route, you'd be better off finding a college or university that offers a degree in that field. Otherwise you'll get your degree in engineering then have to apprentice for a couple of years to get your A&P cert. If you go to an FAA approved school (sorry I know there are several, but I only really know of one personally) you get your degree and you leave with your FAA A&P certificate. A friend of mine has a BS in Aircraft Maintenence Management from Middle Tennessee State University, during which time he earned not only the degree but his full A&P as part of the program.