68F Career Guide
68F: Aircraft Electrician
Career transition guide for Army Aircraft Electrician (68F)
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Top civilian roles for 68F veterans, with average salary and market demand data.
Avionics Technician
Aircraft Mechanic/Technician
Skills to develop:
Electrical Engineer
Skills to develop:
Wind Turbine Technician
Skills to develop:
Quality Control Inspector
Skills to develop:
Salary estimates from VWC career data
Hidden Strengths
Cognitive skills your 68F training built — and where they transfer.
System Modeling
68F personnel develop a deep understanding of how aircraft electrical systems function as a whole, allowing them to diagnose and repair complex issues by tracing signals and understanding interconnected components.
This translates to an ability to understand and troubleshoot complex systems in any field, from IT networks to manufacturing processes.
Procedural Compliance
Adherence to strict technical manuals, directives, and safety procedures is paramount in aircraft maintenance to prevent accidents and ensure airworthiness. This builds a strong understanding of regulations and protocols.
This expertise in meticulously following procedures is valuable in highly regulated industries where compliance is critical, such as healthcare, finance, or pharmaceuticals.
Degraded-Mode Operations
Aircraft maintenance often involves troubleshooting and repairing systems under pressure, with limited resources, and potentially in adverse conditions. 68F personnel learn to adapt and maintain functionality even when things aren't ideal.
This adaptability and problem-solving ability is highly sought after in roles that require quick thinking and resourcefulness in challenging situations.
Resource Optimization
68F personnel are responsible for requisitioning and maintaining shop stock, optimizing the use of tools and supplies to ensure efficient repair operations. They must balance resources to keep aircraft mission-ready.
This skill translates to effective inventory management and resource allocation, valuable in supply chain management, logistics, or operations management roles.
Team Synchronization
While specialized, aircraft maintenance requires collaboration with other maintenance personnel, pilots, and support staff. Coordinating tasks and communicating effectively are crucial for mission success.
This collaborative experience is applicable to any team-based environment, especially in project management and roles requiring cross-functional communication.
Non-Obvious Career Matches
Wind Turbine Technician
SOC 49-9099.01You've been working with complex electromechanical systems, troubleshooting problems under pressure, and following strict safety procedures. This makes you an ideal candidate to inspect, maintain, and repair wind turbines. You're already familiar with the need for precision, the importance of documentation, and the ability to work in challenging conditions.
Amusement and Recreation Mechanic
SOC 49-9091.00You're skilled at diagnosing and fixing complex electrical and mechanical systems and also have extensive experience adhering to strict safety protocols. Your ability to troubleshoot under pressure and maintain detailed records will be invaluable in this role, keeping amusement park rides safe and operational.
Robotics Technician
SOC 49-9062.00You've developed a strong understanding of electrical systems, troubleshooting, and repair. Your experience with complex machinery and your ability to interpret technical manuals make you well-suited to work with robots in manufacturing, healthcare, or other industries.
Elevator and Escalator Installer and Repairer
SOC 47-4021.00You're accustomed to working with complex electrical and mechanical systems. You are also familiar with safety procedures. Your experience in aircraft maintenance provides a solid foundation for installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators and escalators.
Training & Education Equivalencies
AIT, Fort Eustis
Topics Covered
- •Basic Electricity and Electronics
- •Aircraft Electrical Systems Theory
- •Avionics Troubleshooting
- •Wiring Harness Repair
- •Soldering and Connectorization
- •Instrument Repair
- •Technical Manual Interpretation
- •Safety Procedures
Certification Pathways
Partial Coverage
Study general aviation regulations, reciprocating engine theory, and practical hands-on experience with non-military aircraft.
Focus on consumer electronics, industrial electronics, and specific CET endorsement areas not covered by military avionics.
Recommended Next Certifications
Technical Systems Translation
Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.
| Military System | Civilian Equivalent |
|---|---|
| AN/USM-470A(V)4 Aviation Electrical System Tester (AVEST) | Avionics test equipment, such as those from Aeroflex or Keysight Technologies |
| Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S) | Air traffic control and management systems (e.g., those used by the FAA or commercial airlines) |
| Integrated Family of Test Equipment (IFTE) | Automated test equipment (ATE) for electronics diagnostics and repair |
| Aviation Ground Power Unit (AGPU) | Mobile ground power units for aircraft maintenance at airports |
| Technical Manuals and Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (IETMs) | Online databases and software for accessing maintenance and repair procedures (e.g., Mitchell 1, Alldata) |
| Standard Army Maintenance System - Enhanced (SAMS-E) | Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software for tracking maintenance and managing inventory (e.g., IBM Maximo, SAP PM) |
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