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2W171D Career Guide

Air Force

2W171D: Aircraft Armament Systems Craftsman

Career transition guide for Air Force Aircraft Armament Systems Craftsman (2W171D)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 2W171D veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Aerospace Engineering Technician

$75K
High matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) license

Avionics Technician

$78K
High matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

FAA certification in avionicsSpecific experience with civilian aircraft systems

Quality Control Inspector

$65K
Good matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

ASQ Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) certificationKnowledge of ISO 9000 standards

Maintenance Supervisor

$85K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Project management certification (e.g., PMP)Experience with civilian maintenance management systems

Logistics Analyst

$70K
Moderate matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

Supply chain management certification (e.g., CSCP)Data analysis skillsExperience with logistics software

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 2W171D training built — and where they transfer.

Procedural Compliance

Adhering to strict safety protocols and technical manuals when handling munitions and maintaining aircraft systems. This is non-negotiable to prevent catastrophic accidents.

Meticulously following established procedures and regulations in high-stakes environments. This ensures accuracy, safety, and quality control.

System Modeling

Understanding the intricate relationships between various aircraft systems (launch, release, suspension, gun systems) and how they interact with munitions. This is crucial for troubleshooting and maintenance.

Comprehending complex systems and their interdependencies, allowing for effective diagnostics and problem-solving in interconnected environments.

Degraded-Mode Operations

Maintaining and repairing aircraft systems under pressure, often with limited resources or in adverse conditions. This requires adaptability and resourceful problem-solving.

Performing effectively and maintaining operational standards even when resources are scarce, or unexpected challenges arise.

Situational Awareness

Maintaining a constant awareness of the status of aircraft systems, munitions, and the surrounding environment to ensure safety and mission readiness. This includes anticipating potential problems and taking proactive measures.

Staying alert and informed about your surroundings, anticipating potential issues, and responding proactively to ensure safety and mission success.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Quality Assurance Manager

SOC 11-3051.00

You've been responsible for ensuring the safety and functionality of complex aircraft armament systems. As a Quality Assurance Manager, you'll leverage your meticulous attention to detail and understanding of procedural compliance to oversee quality control processes and ensure products meet rigorous standards.

Compliance Officer

SOC 13-1041.00

Your experience in adhering to strict safety regulations and technical manuals translates directly to the role of a Compliance Officer. You're already adept at understanding and enforcing complex rules to minimize risk and maintain operational integrity.

Aerospace Engineering Technician

SOC 17-3021.00

You've developed a deep understanding of aircraft systems through hands-on maintenance and repair. As an Aerospace Engineering Technician, you'll use your knowledge to assist engineers in designing, testing, and manufacturing aircraft and spacecraft.

Robotics Technician

SOC 49-9062.00

Your work with complex mechanical and electrical systems in aircraft translates well to robotics. You've been trained to troubleshoot and repair sophisticated equipment, and you can leverage these skills to build, maintain, and repair robotic systems across various industries.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Aircraft Armament Systems Technical School, Sheppard AFB, TX

570 training hours14 weeksUp to 9 semester hours recommended

Topics Covered

  • Munitions Handling and Safety Procedures
  • Aircraft Armament Systems Maintenance
  • Electrical and Electronic Circuitry Troubleshooting
  • Aircraft Gun Systems Inspection and Repair
  • Launch and Release System Maintenance
  • Munitions Loading and Unloading Procedures
  • Pneudraulic System Maintenance

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Certified Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT)60% covered

General aviation knowledge, FAA regulations, specific aircraft airframe and powerplant systems outside of military aircraft armament.

Certified Quality Technician (CQT)40% covered

Requires additional study of quality control principles, statistical process control, and metrology.

Recommended Next Certifications

Project Management Professional (PMP)Lean Six Sigma Green BeltCertified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Technical Systems Translation

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

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
Common Munitions Built-In Test (BIT)/Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE)Automated test equipment for electronics (ATE)
Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) familyGPS-guided systems
Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM)Advanced missile systems
BRU-46/A Bomb Rack UnitAircraft stores management systems
LAU-129/A Missile LauncherAerospace missile launch systems
AN/AWM-102 Portable Aircraft Armament TesterAvionics testing and simulation software
Pylon Integrated Stores Interface (PISI)Commercial aircraft wing hardpoint systems

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