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1A573 Career Guide

Air Force

1A573: Avionics Systems Technician

Career transition guide for Air Force Avionics Systems Technician (1A573)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 1A573 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Avionics Technician

$75K
High matchHigh demand

Aircraft Mechanic/Service Technician

$70K
Good matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license

Electronics Technician

$65K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Specific industry certifications (e.g., CompTIA)Experience with specific electronic systems

Aerospace Engineer

$118K
Moderate matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace EngineeringCAD software proficiencyUnderstanding of aerospace design principles

Quality Control Inspector

$55K
Moderate matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Quality control certifications (e.g., ASQ)Knowledge of industry-specific quality standards

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 1A573 training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

You consistently create mental models of complex avionics systems to understand how components interact and predict potential failure points. You leverage these models to troubleshoot malfunctions efficiently.

Your ability to build and utilize system models translates to a deep understanding of complex processes, enabling you to analyze and optimize system performance in various civilian industries.

Rapid Prioritization

You routinely assess the urgency and impact of avionics malfunctions to prioritize maintenance tasks, ensuring mission readiness and minimizing downtime. This requires quick decision-making under pressure.

Your skill in rapid prioritization enables you to effectively manage competing demands and allocate resources efficiently, crucial in fast-paced civilian environments where deadlines and critical tasks abound.

Procedural Compliance

You meticulously adhere to technical orders, schematics, and maintenance procedures to ensure the safe and effective operation of avionics systems. Strict adherence to protocol is paramount.

Your commitment to procedural compliance demonstrates your ability to follow established guidelines and maintain quality standards, a valuable asset in regulated industries and organizations where precision is essential.

Situational Awareness

You maintain a comprehensive understanding of the operational status of avionics systems, aircraft configurations, and potential threats to ensure mission success and safety. You constantly monitor and assess the environment around you.

Your heightened situational awareness allows you to anticipate potential problems, adapt to changing conditions, and make informed decisions, qualities that are highly sought after in dynamic and unpredictable civilian settings.

After-Action Analysis

You regularly review maintenance data, inspection records, and operational logs to identify trends, assess production effectiveness, and recommend corrective actions. This continuous improvement approach enhances overall system performance.

Your experience in after-action analysis demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and your ability to learn from past experiences, enabling you to identify areas for optimization and implement effective solutions in civilian organizations.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Wind Turbine Technician

SOC 49-9086

You've been working with complex electro-mechanical systems, troubleshooting malfunctions, and performing maintenance in challenging environments. Your skills in diagnostics, repair, and adherence to safety protocols directly translate to maintaining wind turbines.

Robotics Technician

SOC 49-9062

You've been maintaining and repairing advanced avionics systems, including integrated test systems and computer-controlled components. Your expertise in troubleshooting, diagnostics, and electrical systems makes you well-suited to work with industrial robots.

Building Automation Systems Technician

SOC 49-9041

You've been working with complex integrated systems, including sensors, controls, and communication networks. You’re adept at diagnosing malfunctions and performing maintenance. This background makes you a great fit for managing and maintaining building automation systems.

Amusement and Recreation Mechanic

SOC 49-9091

You've been performing intricate maintenance and repairs on complex systems while adhering to stringent safety standards. These skills are critical for maintaining and repairing amusement park rides and equipment.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Avionics Systems Apprentice Course, Sheppard AFB, TX

1,120 training hours28 weeksUp to 15 semester hours recommended in Avionics Technology or Electronics Technology

Topics Covered

  • Avionics Systems Theory
  • Electronic Principles
  • Digital Logic
  • Microprocessors
  • Avionics Troubleshooting
  • Use of Technical Publications
  • Aircraft Electrical Systems
  • Radar Systems

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Certified Aviation Technician (Avionics)70% covered

While the military training provides a strong foundation in avionics maintenance, this certification requires a broader understanding of FAA regulations, general aviation maintenance practices, and specific knowledge related to civilian aircraft avionics systems.

ETA International Certified Avionics Technician (CAT)60% covered

The military training provides a solid base in avionics systems. Gaps include specific FAA regulations, civilian avionics standards, and hands-on experience with a wider variety of civilian aircraft systems.

Recommended Next Certifications

FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) licenseCertified Electronics Technician (CET)Project Management Professional (PMP)

Technical Systems Translation

Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
AN/APG-68 Radar SystemWeather and Navigation Radar Systems (e.g., used in commercial aviation)
Inertial Navigation System (INS)Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) used in robotics, drones, and autonomous vehicles
AN/ALQ-131 Electronic Warfare PodRF jammers and signal analysis equipment
Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS)Airborne Ground Surveillance Radar, geospatial intelligence platforms
Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS)Air Traffic Control Radar Systems
Automated Maintenance Systems (e.g., IMDS)Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software (e.g., IBM Maximo, SAP Plant Maintenance)
Flight Control SystemsFly-by-wire systems in commercial aircraft and advanced drones

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