Also called: Aerodynamics Test Technician
Runs giant wind tunnels that test airplanes, race cars, and buildings.
Techs mount scale models in the tunnel, install sensors, run blasts of wind, and maintain huge fans and compressors at NASA, aerospace companies, and race teams.
Based on aerospace engineering technicians data.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Associate's degree (2-year), about 2 years after high school. Associate degree in aerospace or engineering technology.
Ways in: 2-year college, Military. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Aerospace Engineering Technology, Engineering Technology.
Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years).
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. Computer simulation (CFD) is cutting tunnel hours, so fewer slots; mounting models, sensors and fixing huge fans stay hands-on.
Classes: Physics, Pre-calculus, Electronics CTE, Shop class.
Official data: O*NET occupation 17-3021.
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