Careers in the Aerospace Industry

As the author of various publications and the organizer of informational events on career paths in the aerospace industry, I regularly receive inquiries about job requirements, entry-level opportunities, contact information, and so on. To provide a clearer overview, I have created a diagram of the various career paths—see the adjacent page. I’d also like to add the following comment: The diagram shows only the most important and well-known educational paths, as I had to greatly simplify the whole thing for the sake of clarity. The AÉROSUISSE brochure “World of Aviation” provides a more detailed description of the individual career fields, such as airports, the Air Force, emergency services, etc.—and, very importantly, it offers those interested a wealth of key contact addresses and links. It’s worth using these resources, as they often point to lesser-known but very interesting career opportunities. Additional information can also be found at www.aerosuisse.ch. Good luck. Emil Giezendanner

The AÉROSUISSE brochure “The World of Aviation” describes training programs and careers in the various fields of the aerospace industry in Switzerland. A large number of contact addresses and important links are available to those interested. To order, contact: aerosuisse@centrepatronal.ch

Swiss civil aviation is a multifaceted industry comprising airlines, airports, air traffic control, the aircraft manufacturing industry, aviation-related businesses, and recreational aviation.

All of these areas are important, indispensable, and have their own raison d’être. Many of us—myself included—have been and remain enthusiastic model airplane enthusiasts, and it was through this hobby that we discovered the fascinating world of aviation. From the perspective of promoting young talent, model flying is also of great importance to AÉROSUISSE. The umbrella organization for the Swiss aviation and aerospace industry has therefore included model flying as a topic in its recently published training brochure (available for order at www.aerosuisse.ch).

Model aviation is one of the eight sports divisions united within the Aero-Club of Switzerland. With over 7,000 members, it accounts for one-third of the total membership. Model aviation is also a meaningful and affordable leisure activity for many young people and the young at heart.

Through the Model Aviation Association’s membership as a division of the Aero-Club of Switzerland within AÉROSUISSE, the umbrella organization for Swiss aviation and aerospace, model aviation also benefits from political representation. As an important part of Switzerland’s aviation sector, the anniversary year “100 Years of Aviation in Switzerland” is therefore also a milestone for the sport of model flying.

Paul Kurrus, President of Aérosuisse, June 30, 2010

Vocational Training and Continuing Education in the Aerospace Industry (in very simple terms)