The airline industry in the United States is said to be responsible for providing 10 million Americans with jobs, which range from business executives, to mechanics, to customer service representatives, not to mention pilots, stewardesses, and stewards. There are many different areas those seeking an aviation career can specialize in, suitable for entry-level candidates, as well as those who have more skills and experience to bring to the table.
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Aviation Industry Not Just For Pilots
In New York City, at LaGuardia and Kennedy, and in Greensboro, at Piedmont Triad International Airport, PTI airport jobs are available, in a number of aviation-related specialties. The Houston Chronicle describes that “years of training” are required to be employed as a commercial pilot or aircraft controller, which should not dissuade candidates, but does set expectations as to what employers are looking for, as well as industry standards.
Airports are generally owned by airport authorities, which help to orchestrate business between a number of airline carriers, other transportation companies, and the public. Many airports are home to restaurants and other service providers, many of whom hire for a range of skills. Visit each airport you may be interested in working at, see what businesses are open, and talk to owners and staff about current employment trends. Many jobs are never advertised.
Wide Variety Of Roles
Those interested in a career in airport security should read information from the Transportation Security Administration and contact the airport authorities operating airports you are interested in working at. Most have human resources departments that will be happy to answer questions, as well as provide recommendations. Customs agents, who are employed by the federal government, are present at international airports, offering another potential career path.
Additionally, most airports, as well as airlines, need cleaning and other maintenance personnel. These positions are great ways for hard-working, motivated employees to get their foot in the door at an airport, where they may then dazzle not only their supervisors, but employees of airlines, inviting the possibility of career advancement for those with positive energy and helpful personalities.
Prepare For Background Checks
Something to consider, for anyone interested in working at an airport, whether as a cleaner, baggage handler, or pilot, is that strict background checks will be conducted. Those who have criminal records, or face current charges, in most cases, will likely face hurdles when seeking aviation industry employment. However, once time has passed, the opportunity to have records expunged, as well as to improve one’s self, gives the opportunity for all but the most serious offenders to potentially, one day, be able to pass necessary checks.
Even cleaning staff who have some experience with computers and a high school diploma are preferable to those who do not. Consider studying with a college, university, or private training center to gain the skills necessary for employment at airports. Such a course of action has the potential to dramatically increase the chances of securing aviation industry employment.
