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2A135B Career Guide

Air Force

2A135B: Avionics Test Station Specialist

Career transition guide for Air Force Avionics Test Station Specialist (2A135B)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 2A135B veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Avionics Technician

$75K
High matchHigh demand

Electronics Engineering Technician

$72K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Associate's degree in Electronics TechnologySpecific experience with civilian-sector equipment

Calibration Technician

$68K
Good matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Certification in Calibration (e.g., ASQ)Familiarity with ISO 17025 standards

Field Service Technician

$70K
Moderate matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

Strong customer service skillsSpecific product knowledge related to the industry (e.g., medical equipment, industrial machinery)

Aerospace Engineering Technician

$78K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Specific knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processesCAD/CAM software proficiency

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 2A135B training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

You routinely used system modeling to understand the complex interactions within avionics systems, predicting how changes in one component would affect the overall performance of the system. You used schematics, test flows, and wiring diagrams to create mental models of these systems.

This ability to understand and predict system behavior translates to a civilian context by allowing you to quickly grasp how different parts of a business or organization function together. You can anticipate potential problems and optimize performance by understanding these interdependencies.

Procedural Compliance

Your role demanded strict adherence to maintenance standards, directives, and safety procedures. You were responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations regarding hazardous waste disposal, technical data changes, and equipment records.

Your dedication to following procedures and regulations makes you well-suited for roles where accuracy and consistency are paramount. This translates into a strong ability to adhere to protocols, maintain meticulous records, and ensure that all work is performed to the highest standards.

Degraded-Mode Operations

When avionics systems malfunctioned, you needed to quickly troubleshoot and repair them, often under pressure. This required you to adapt to unexpected problems, prioritize tasks, and find solutions even when resources were limited.

Your experience in 'degraded-mode operations' demonstrates your ability to remain calm and effective under pressure. You have a proven track record of problem-solving in challenging situations, making you valuable in any role where adaptability and resilience are essential.

After-Action Analysis

You initiated deficiency reports, maintenance analysis documents, and technical data changes, showcasing your dedication to continuous improvement and learning from past experiences to optimize future performance.

Your experience developing deficiency reports translates directly to civilian scenarios by providing you with a framework for analyzing failures and developing preventative measures to prevent re-occurrences. You can leverage this skill to identify areas of improvement and implement changes that reduce inefficiencies.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Wind Turbine Technician

SOC 49-9086

You've been troubleshooting and repairing complex electrical and mechanical systems, much like the systems found in wind turbines. Your experience with diagnostic equipment and maintenance procedures translates perfectly to this field, where you'll ensure the efficient operation of renewable energy infrastructure.

Robotics Technician

SOC 49-9062

You've been working with advanced avionics systems that are essentially complex robots. Your experience in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining these systems makes you well-equipped to work with robots in manufacturing, healthcare, or other industries. Plus, your ability to read schematics and use diagnostic tools will be invaluable.

Quality Assurance Analyst

SOC 19-4041

You've been meticulously inspecting and testing avionics equipment to ensure it meets stringent quality standards. This eye for detail and commitment to precision makes you an ideal candidate for a quality assurance role, where you'll be responsible for maintaining product quality and identifying potential defects.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Avionics Test Station Training Program, Sheppard AFB, TX

1,240 training hours31 weeksUp to 15 semester hours recommended in electronics technology or avionics maintenance

Topics Covered

  • Avionics Systems Theory
  • Electronic Warfare Systems Diagnostics
  • Radar Systems Maintenance
  • Test Equipment Calibration Procedures
  • Circuit Analysis and Repair
  • Automated Test Equipment (ATE) Operation
  • Fiber Optics Technology
  • Data Collection and Reporting

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Certified Electronics Technician (CET)70% covered

Focus on current electronics manufacturing and troubleshooting techniques, as well as specific certification exam topics.

IPC-A-610 Certified Standard Application Specialist60% covered

Study the latest IPC-A-610 standards, focusing on acceptance criteria for electronics assemblies.

Recommended Next Certifications

Certified Calibration Technician (CCT)Certified Test Engineer (CTEng)Six Sigma Green Belt

Technical Systems Translation

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

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
AN/USM-636(V) Forward Air Controller Tactical Air Control Party (FAC/TACP) Communications Test SetAeroflex IFR4000 Navigation Communication Test Set
AN/APM-424(V)5 Radar Test SetSignal Generator and Spectrum Analyzer for Radar Testing
AN/ALM-243 Radar Signal SimulatorsRF Signal Generators with Arbitrary Waveform Capabilities
Common Munitions Built-In Test (BIT) Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE)Automated Test Equipment (ATE) for Munitions
Integrated Avionics Test Stations (e.g., Viavi 3920B)Automated Test Equipment (ATE) Platforms
Electronic Warfare (EW) Test Benches (e.g., for ALQ-131)RF and Microwave Test and Measurement Systems
Flight Line Test Sets (e.g., for F-16, F-15, F-22 avionics)Portable Avionics Testers

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