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ASM Career Guide

Navy

ASM: Aviation Support Equipment Technician

Career transition guide for Navy Aviation Support Equipment Technician (ASM)

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Civilian Career Pathways

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

Aircraft Mechanic/Service Technician

$73K
High matchHigh demand

Automotive Mechanic

$55K
Good matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

ASE CertificationsSpecific automotive diagnostic software training

Wind Turbine Technician

$58K
Moderate matchVery high demand

Skills to develop:

OSHA 30 CertificationClimbing and rescue certificationExperience with large rotating machinery

Quality Control Inspector

$52K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

ISO 9000 TrainingSix Sigma Certification

Avionics Technician

$75K
High matchHigh demand

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your ASM training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

ASM's work with diverse aircraft systems, from engines to survival gear, requiring them to understand how each component interacts within a larger system and predict how adjustments or failures in one area might affect others.

This translates to the ability to understand complex processes and identify critical leverage points for improvement. You can visualize and understand interdependencies within a system, predict potential problems, and optimize performance.

Procedural Compliance

Maintaining aircraft and related equipment demands strict adherence to detailed procedures, technical manuals, and safety regulations. ASMs must meticulously follow these protocols to ensure operational readiness and prevent accidents.

This cultivates a deep understanding of the importance of following established protocols and regulations. You have a demonstrated ability to understand, remember, and implement complex procedures consistently and accurately, reducing errors and ensuring safety.

Situational Awareness

ASMs must remain aware of their surroundings, potential hazards, and the status of various systems while performing maintenance and inspections. This awareness is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of themselves and others.

This heightened awareness extends beyond the immediate task. You're adept at identifying potential risks and proactively taking steps to mitigate them. You excel at recognizing changes in the environment or system behavior that may indicate a problem.

After-Action Analysis

ASMs participate in analyzing equipment failures and maintenance procedures to identify areas for improvement. This involves reviewing data, identifying root causes, and recommending corrective actions to prevent future incidents.

You're adept at identifying the root causes of problems by scrutinizing past actions and outcomes. You're skilled at objectively evaluating performance, documenting findings, and implementing preventative measures.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Quality Assurance Specialist

SOC 19-4041.00

You've been immersed in a world of meticulous maintenance and strict adherence to procedures, making you exceptionally well-prepared to ensure products or services meet the highest standards. Your experience in identifying and correcting discrepancies in aircraft systems translates directly to identifying defects and implementing corrective actions in a manufacturing or service environment.

Compliance Officer

SOC 13-1041.00

You've been trained to operate under strict compliance standards, ensuring operations adhere to guidelines. Your military background translates well into understanding regulatory frameworks and ensuring an organization adheres to the standards required.

Technical Trainer

SOC 25-9044.00

You've not only mastered complex systems but have also instructed others on their operation and maintenance. This experience makes you an ideal candidate to train new employees on technical equipment, processes, or software. Your ability to break down complex information into understandable steps, combined with your hands-on experience, will make you a highly effective trainer.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Aviation Support Equipment Technician (ASM) 'A' School, Naval Air Station Meridian, MS

960 training hours24 weeksUp to 9 semester hours recommended in automotive technology and small engine repair.

Topics Covered

  • Gasoline engine theory and maintenance
  • Hydraulic and pneumatic systems operation and repair
  • Electrical and electronic circuit troubleshooting
  • Aviation armament handling equipment maintenance
  • Aircraft handling procedures
  • Parachute and survival equipment maintenance
  • Small arms maintenance and repair
  • Oxygen and fire extinguisher systems maintenance

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

Certified Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT)60% covered

FAA regulations, specific aircraft systems knowledge, and practical experience requirements for certification.

Small Arms Repairer/Technician Certification40% covered

Specific manufacturer certifications for small arms, advanced gunsmithing techniques, and legal aspects of firearms repair.

ETA Certified Electronics Technician (CET)50% covered

In-depth knowledge of advanced electronics troubleshooting, repair techniques, and specific certification exam topics.

Recommended Next Certifications

Inspection Authorization (IA)DoD Ammunition and Explosives Safety CertificationCertified Quality Technician (CQT)Project Management Professional (PMP)

Technical Systems Translation

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

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
Aviation Support Equipment (ASE)Ground Support Equipment (GSE) maintenance and repair
Gas Turbine Compressor Units (GTCU)Industrial gas turbine maintenance and repair
Naval Aviation Logistics Command Management Information System (NALCOMIS)Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software
Support Equipment Calibration Program (SECAL)ISO 9000 Calibration and Metrology standards
Aircraft Tire and Wheel Maintenance EquipmentCommercial aircraft tire and wheel service equipment
Aviation Life Support Systems (ALSS)Parachute rigging and survival equipment maintenance
Small Arms MaintenanceGunsmithing and firearms repair

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