CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – Meet a Aircraft Mechanic

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is an Aircraft Mechanic?

Aircraft Mechanics are in demand!

The job of an Aircraft Mechanic is to keep planes operating safely and efficiently. People’s lives are at stake which makes this job extremely important. You have to be very responsible.

Aircraft Mechanics regularly service aircraft, overhaul engines and parts and test the every-day smooth running of the aeroplanes.

Some Aircraft Mechanics specialise in:

• hydraulics
• propeller-driven planes
• engines etc

Aircraft Mechanics are employed in airports, aircraft hangers, and aircraft constructing companies.

What does an Aircraft Mechanic do?

• makes safety inspections
• services of the aircraft regularly
  
• troubleshoots and solves problems
  
• overhauls engines and parts
• repairs parts / installs new ones
• tests various parts and engines
  
• orders parts
• keeps strict records
  

Are you … ?

• interested in aircraft?
• mechanically minded?
• methodical?
• a problem solver?
• patient?
• trustworthy?
• technical?
• organised?
• diligent?
• literate?  Can you read technical manuals?

How do I become an Aircraft Mechanic?

• Most Aircraft Mechanics do a BSc in Mechanical Engineering specialising in aeronautical engineering.

• Some do a BTech in Mechanical Engineering at a university of technology.

• Check with your local institution to see what they offer.

The following are some private placesyou can train at:

• DENEL CENTRE FOR LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT (DCLD):  (Kemptonpark)

Places that may offer training/employment:

• SAAT
• DENEL
• Private Provider

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic … or …  Automotive Mechanic … or … Aerodynamist

Is becoming an Aircraft Mechanic the right career choice for me? 

OFO No: 315401

Other names for Air Traffic Controller:

What is an Air Traffic Controller?

According to research, a career in Air Traffic Control (ATC) is one of the most stressful jobs in the world.

Do you have the ability to work and stay calm under extreme stress? Do you have a love for flying or would love to be involved in the trafficking Air transport? Then consider working as an Air Traffic Controller.

Air Traffic Controllers maintain the safe orderly, expeditious and efficient flow of air traffic. They monitor the movement of aircraft along major air routes and around airports by giving pilots instructions and advice as to height, speed and course. 

The majority of controllers work at control centres as area controllers responsible for keeping aircraft flying the airways.

Others work as approach controllers dealing with aircraft movement into and out of the airport, or aerodrome controllers guiding aircraft through landing and to the terminal.

What does an Air Traffic Controller do?

• keep radio and/or radar contact with aircraft
• direct the movement of aircraft en route or at an airport
• instruct aircraft to climb or descend and allocate final cruising level
• provide information to aircraft about weather conditions
• make sure that minimum distances are maintained between planes
• handle unexpected events, emergencies and unscheduled traffic
• control take-offs and landings
• monitor approacing and departing and en-route control information

• Approach Controllers

are based at a control centre or an airport tower. They guide and sequence aircraft into the most efficient order for landing. This includes dealing with instrument landing systems that allow some planes to make automatic landings and making sure that planes are placed in holding patterns when airports are busy. 

• Aerodrome Controllers

take over to guide the aircraft through landing and to its parking stand at the terminal. Their roles may be further sub-divided into air control and ground control at very busy airports. Their activities include: controlling movements onto and off runways; handling the ground movement of planes around the terminals.

Are you . . . ?

• responsible?
• reliable?
• a person who can concentrate for long periods?
• observant?
• a good communicator?
• able to deal with pressure and emergencies?
• logical?
• a good planner?
• a problem solver?

How do I become an Air Traffic Controller?

• AIR TRAFFIC AND NAVIGATION SERVICES (ATNS):

To become a civilian ATC in South Africa, training is provided by Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) through the Aviation Training Academy.  The course takes 4-6 years before you are fully qualified.  

‘ATNS is proud to provide bursaries for motivated and interested candidates to train to become Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCO’s)’ – ATNS  

http://www.atns.co.za

Minimum requirements:

18 year +
Grade 12 with Mathematics and English
South African Citizen
Medically fit

Once qualified you will begin your career as an ATC Assistant.  From here you will progress to Aerodrome Control and finally to Procedural and/or Radar Control.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Agriculture Pilot or Aircraft Mechanic

Is becoming an Air Traffic Controller the right career choice for me?

18-02-2015 – Posted on Facebook

Other names for Aeronautical Engineer:

CLICK HERE

Youtube clip – Aeronautical Engineering

For training options in South Africa – scroll down

What is an Aeronautical Engineer?

Aeronautical Engineering is one of the most challenging and exciting fields of engineering where you work with the latest technology.

Aeronautical / Aerospace Engineers are mechanical engineers who work to develop new technology for aviation, space exploration and airborne defence systems.

They usually work as part of a team where each member has a different area of specialisation and their responsibility can range from planning and designing  to manufacture and testing.

They can choose to specialise in many different areas and also in a particular product such as military aircraft, passenger planes, helicopters, satellites, rockets etc

They design and test some of the following:

• Aircraft
• Satellites
• Combustion engines
• Air-conditioning units
• Heat and strength of aeronautical materials
• Hydraulics etc

They could specialise in one or more of the following:

• Aerodynamics:

The study of airflow

• Propulsion:

The study of performance

• Systems:

Responsible for the integration of all fields

• Manufacture & Production:

Responsible for quality & safety control

• Avionics:

Responsible for the flight instrumentation

• Servo-& Power Systems:

Responsible for the stability and control of aircraft

• Certification:

Responsible for proving that the aircraft is airworthy

What does an Aeronautical Engineer do?

Other areas of the aeronautical engineer’s work would include:

• structural design
• construction
• navigational guidance and control systems
• instrumentation and communication
• production methods
• development & testing
• operations and maintenance

Besides being interested in aviation, other important qualities needed to become a successful Aeronautical Engineer are: accuracy and attention to detail and being a perfectionist with a technical mind and exceptional skills in maths and physical science.

Are you … ?

• interested in aircraft and engineering?
• good at mathematics?
  
• mechanically minded?
• a problem solver?
• computer literate?
• dedicated?
• trustworthy?
• hard working?
• a team player?

How do I become an Aeronautical Engineer?

PATH 1

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering

• North West University
• University of Cape Town
• University of Johannesburg
• University of KZN
• University of Pretoria
• University of Stellenbosch
• University of Witwatersrand

PATH 2

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering

• 3 years workplace experience (registered as a Candidate Engineer through ECSA)
• Professional Review with ECSA
• Designation: Only engineers registered with ECSA may use the title Professional Engineer.

PATH 3

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Aeronautical Engineering

• University of Pretoria
• University of the Witwatersrand
  

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education.

• SOUTH AFRICAN CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY: (SACAA)

www.caa.co.za

• ENGINEERING COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA: (ECSA)

www.ecsa.co.za

• SA AIR FORCE

www.saairforce.co.za

• TETA: TRANSPORT EDUCATION TRAINING AUTHORITY

http://www.teta.org.za/

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Diesel Mechanic or Millwright

Is becoming an Aeronautical Engineer the right career choice for me?

What is a Diesel Electrical Fitter? 

Diesel Electrical Fitters can work in train yards, power stations and in private homes. 

In a train yard, a Diesel Electrical Fitter’s main job is to install, maintain and repair wiring on diesel locomotives. 

Diesel Electrical Fitters use very technical equipment and hand tools. 

What does a Diesel Electrical Fitter do?

• maintains and repair diesel locomotives
• sticks strictly to safety regulations
• keeps records

Are you  . . . ?

• passionate about trains?
• responsible and reliable?
• safety conscious?
• able to work in cramped and dirty spaces?
• a person who pays attention to detail?
• a problem solver?
• good with your hands?
• physically fit and strong?

How do I become a Diesel Electrical Fitter?

TETA suggest that you begin your career by completing a:

National Certificate: Diesel Electrical Fitter NQF 2

Requirements:

• 16 years old
• Grade 10 with Mathematics or
• Grade 10 without Maths but at least Maths on the N1 or
• N1 which includes Mathematics as well as a technical trade or
• NCV Level 2

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• TETA

http://www.teta.org.za/inner.aspx?section=2&page=17

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Railway Signaller … or … Cable Jointer

Is becoming a Diesel Electrical Fitter right career choice for me?

Other names for Logistics Manager:

• Dispatch Logistics Manager

What is a Logistics Manager?

A Logistics Manager heads up companies that are involved in the moving, handling or storing goods in any industry – transferring goods and materials from manufacturers and suppliers through to customers.  This can be carried out locally, regionally, nationally or internationally.

In this line of work, you might also be known as a Supply Chain or Distribution Manager.

It is the Logistic Manager’s responsibility to work closely with purchasing officers, warehouse staff and transport clerks ensuring that goods and materials arrive at the depot according to schedule, arrive in good order, are stored corrected and dispatched timeously to customers.

Logistics is an essential industry.  It is an important area in the efficient performance of a company or country.

What does a Logistics Manager do?

• manages transport and distribution channels
• plans of delivery timetables
• inventory control: monitors of stock levels with the use of computer databases
• tracks movement of goods through depots
• oversees of ordering and packaging processes ready for dispatch
• looks at ways to improve supply networks
• oversees the arrival of shipments
• manages clerical, administrative and warehouse distribution staff
• monitors performance and makes sure targets are met
• deals with staff recruitment and training
• resources & does financial planning
• assists with storage and warehouse design
• watches quality management
  

Are you … ?

• logical?
• a critical thinker?
• decisive?
• a good planner?
• organised?
• computer literate?
• able to deal with stress?
• deadline orientated?
• a good manager?
• able to motivate others?

How do I become a Logistics Manager?

There are numerous ways to study Logistics or Supply Chain Management: In most cases Mathematics is needed.

PATH 1

Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Logistics Management

• University of Johannesburg

PATH 2

Bachelor of Logistics

• University of Stellebosch

PATH 3

National Diplomas and Bachelor of Technology (BTech)

• Can be done at some Universities of Technology

Diplomas and Certificates in Logistics

• Can be done at some private institutions

Once you have these, you will have to get a lot of work experience and work yourself up to the position of Logistics Manager

Other Institutions to Consider:

• CENTRE FOR LOGISTICS EXCELLENCE: CLX

Offers a variety of accredited courses.

• DAMELIN

Offers a Supply Chain Management Short Course Certificate

• UNISA
• Institute for Quality
• Metro Minds
• Global Maritime Legal Solutions

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Accountant … or … Chartered Secretary 

Is becoming a Logistics Manager the right career choice for me?

Other names for Supply & Distribution Manager:

What is a Supply and Distribution Manager?

A Supply and Distribution Manager usually works in a warehouse and is responsible for the planning, co-ordination, directing and controlling the supply of the goods which are made by the company.  They are also in charge of the storage and distribution of the goods. 

A Supply and Distribution Manager is also a kind of Logistics Manager.  See under ‘Logistics Manager’ on our website for more details.

What does a Supply and Distribution Manager do?

• supervise the activities of workers
• negotiate contracts with suitable suppliers
• develop new supply and distribution policies and strategies
• implement warehouse safety and security programs
• do paperwork, like invoices, work orders, etc
• schedule and monitortransport: pickup, delivery, or distribution of products
• ensure timely re-ordering and re-stocking
• co-ordinate warehouse activities, eg production, sales, records control etc
• workout costs for transport and distribution
• deal with customers’ questions and complaints
• inspectwarehouses, vehicle fleets and equipment
• maintain equipment / ordering new

Are you … ?

• extremely organised?
• logistical?
• methodical?
• a good manager?
• deadline orientated?
• computer literate?
• a good communicator?

How do I become a Supply and Distribution Manager?

There are numerous ways to study to become a Supply and Distribution Manager. 

One can go the route and study Logistics Management – see under ‘Logistics Manager’ on our website for more details or, for example, you can study at:

PATH 1

Diploma in Supply Chain Management

Advanced Diploma in Supply Chain Technologies

Workplace experience

PATH 2

Bachelor degree in Supply Chain Management

Workplace experience

PATH 3

Bachelor degree in Supply Chain Management

Honours in Supply Chain Management

Workplace experience

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Bank Manager … or … Television Director

Is becoming a Supply and Distribution Manager the right career choice for me?

Chief Engineering Officers are in demand!  The Chief Engineering Officer usually works on a ship/cruise ship and is reports to the Master of the ship. A Chief Engineering Officer is in charge of all the engines as well as electrical systems, generators, plumbing, water desalinization, air-conditioning, ventilation, heating and refrigeration.

What does a Chief Engineering Officer do?

• managing engineering crew
• keeping inventories and records 
• ensuring maintenance, service and repair to engines
• ensuring maintenance, service and repair to generators, plumbing, air-conditioning and ventilation systems
• ensuring maintenance, service and repair to heating and refrigeration systems
• ensuring maintenance, service and repair to all electrical systems
• ensuring correct installation of any new engineering/electrical equipment

Are you … ?

• passionate about working at sea?
• mechanically  minded?
• good with people?
• organised?
• good with your hands?
• practical?
• able to read instruction manuals?
• thorough and methodical?
• a problem solver?
• good under pressure?
• able to work in cramped, often noisy areas?

How do I become a Chief Engineering Officer?

School requirements:

Grade 12 or equivalent with Mathematics and Science – 60%+ pass
Grade 10 or equivalent with Mathematics and Science – 60%+ pass rate
Those with Grade 12 certificate but without maths and science can do a 6-month bridging course at any institution offering Maritime Studies.

This is the list you have to complete to become a Chief Engineering Officer:

• Complete an S1 and S2 certificate in Maritime Studies or Mechanical Engineering at either Durban University of Technology (DUT) or Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
• Complete 12 months on board ship for in-service-training
• Qualify as an Engineering Officer by passing the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) appropriate oral exam
• Complete a National Diploma in Maritime Studies through DUT or CPUT
• Complete another 12 months on board ship for in-service-training
• Qualify as an 2nd Engineering Officer by passing the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) appropriate oral exam
• Complete a Higher Diploma in Maritime Studies through DUT or CPUT
• Complete another 12 months on board ship for in-service-training
• Qualify as an Chief Engineering Officer by passing the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) appropriate oral exam

Is becoming a Chief Engineering Officer the right career choice for me?

See below for more info.

The Master/Chief Mate is the head of the deck department. The Master/Chief Mate is responsible to the captain for the safety and security of the ship.

What does a Chief Mate/Master do?

• co-ordinating schedules with other departments
• planning work schedules for the different crew members
• maintaining quality control
• handling conflict resolution
• compiling supply, overtime, and cost control records, etc
• maintaining the crew’s welfare (safety rules are adhered to)
• training crew in safety, fire-fighting, search and rescue
• reporting to the captain

Are you … ?

• passionate about working at sea?
• organised?
• good at planning?
• a problem solver?
• good at keeping records?
• good at managing crew?

How do I become a Chief Mate/Master?

School requirements:
Grade 12 or equivalent with Mathematics and Science – 60%+ pass
Grade 10 or equivalent with Mathematics and Science – 60%+ pass rate
Those with Grade 12 certificate but without maths and science can do a 6-month bridging course at any institution offering Maritime Studies.

This is the list you have to complete to become a Master/Chief Mate:

• Complete an S1 and S2 certificate in Maritime Studies or Mechanical Engineering at either Durban University of Technology (DUT) or Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
• Complete 12 months on board ship for in-service-training
• Qualify as an Engineering Officer by passing the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) appropriate oral exam
• Complete a National Diploma in Maritime Studies through DUT or CPUT
• Complete another 12 months on board ship for in-service-training
• Qualify as a 2nd Engineering Officer or Chief Navigational Officer by passing the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) appropriate oral exam
• Complete a Higher Diploma in Maritime Studies through DUT or CPUT
• Complete another 12 months on board ship for in-service-training
• Qualify as a Master/Chief Mate by passing the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) appropriate oral exam

Is becoming a Chief Mate or Master the right career choice for me?

See below for more info.

What is an Aircraft Welder? 

Aircraft Welders are in demand!

Aircraft Welders work on aeroplanes and other kinds of aircraft like helicopters and spacecraft etc. Their job is to weld and repair aircraft components. 

What does an Aircraft Welder do?

• repair aircraft components

Are you … ?

• interested in welding?
• passionate about flight and aircraft?
• safety conscious?
• good with your hands?
• a person with good eyesight?
• responsible?

How do I become an Aircraft Welder? 

You will need a Grade 10 + Mathematics + English  

CLICK HERE for more info and training about Welders.

Places that may offer training/employment:

• SAAT
• DENEL
• Private Provider

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Aircraft Sheetmetal Worker or Tool, Jig & Die-Maker

Is becoming an Aircraft Welder right career choice for me?

See below for more info.

What is an Aircraft Trimmer? 

Aircraft Trimmers are in demand! 

The job of an Aircraft Trimmer is to maintain the interior of aircrafts and cabins. They need to maintain a high quality of service and stick to strict safety guidelines.

Examples of areas Aircraft Trimmers would work on:

• Curtains
• Cabin and cockpit seats
• Safety belts
• Carpets
• Side panels
• Blankets for insulation
• Cargo webbing (netting that stops cargo moving on the plane) etc.

They are also responsible for the safety rafts and life vests on the aircraft.

What does an Aircraft Trimmer do?

• manufacture, installs and repair aircraft interiors
• service and repair survival equipment (life vests, rafts etc)
• make routine checks
• make sure everything is safe and secure

Are you … ?

• passionate about airplanes?
• good with your hands?
• perfectionist?
• responsible and reliable?
• safety conscious?

How do I become an Aircraft Trimmer?

You will need a trade qualification as an Aircraft Trimmer .

Training will include the following:

• Leatherwork
• Aircraft insulation blanket practices
• Sewing machine skills
• Maintenance of survival equipment etc

Minimum requirements: Grade 10 + Mathematics + English

Places that may offer training/employment:

• SAAT
• DENEL
• Private Provider

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Interior Designer or Furniture Polisher

Is becoming an Aircraft Trimmer right career choice for me?

See below for more info.