Career roadmap
How to Become an Aerospace Engineering Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an aerospace engineering technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an aerospace engineering technician: (1) earn an associate degree, (2) learn instrumentation, (3) do internships, (4) get hired, (5) advance. Most people need about 2-year degree. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an aerospace engineering technician
Earn an associate degree
Engineering technology.
Learn instrumentation
Skills.
Do internships
Experience.
Get hired
Technician.
Advance
Senior or lead tech.
Education and training requirements
An associate degree in engineering technology is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2-year degree |
Certifications and licenses
- NASA workmanship standards: Soldering and wiring.
- IPC certifications: Electronics.
- Security clearance: For defense.
- FAA A&P: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with test setup, instrumentation, and data acquisition, and practice attention to detail and teamwork. Learning the aerospace engineering technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Technician: Entry.
- Senior Technician: Lead tests.
- Test Lead: Run programs.
- Test Engineer: With more education.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Aerospace Engineering Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do I need a degree?
An associate degree is typical.
How long does it take to become an aerospace engineering technician?
Most people need about 2-year degree of training. An associate degree in engineering technology is typical.
Do you need a degree to be an aerospace engineering technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for aerospace engineering technicians?
Common credentials include NASA workmanship standards, IPC certifications, Security clearance, and FAA A&P. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-3021 (Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.