Interested in becoming a composite technician but aren’t sure what the career path entails?
As a composite technician, you’ll have the opportunity to work on aircraft parts. This is a very important job that requires an analytical mindset, strong attention to detail, and solid verbal and written communication skills.
If you think you have what it takes to work in composite manufacturing, read on to learn how to become a composite technician.
What is a Composite Technician?
A composite technician uses a wide range of products, such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, graphite, and Kevlar, to produce various items, such as boats, airplanes, skateboards, and more.
Sometimes this career will work in production and are responsible for fabricating parts in materials. They may also use their knowledge of engineering or manufacturing to fix anything from an airplane to a skateboard.
In some cases, composite technicians are responsible for operating heavy machinery or lifting heavy objects, so it’s important to be physically fit as well as mentally sharp for this job.
Composite technicians are also sometimes referred to as composite mechanics, design engineers, or compound engineers. While composite technicians can work on a range of items, most of them work on aircraft parts.
They often use vacuum techniques and oven processes to maintain and repair composite aircraft parts made from fiberglass and other materials.
What Does a Composite Technician Do?
This career specializes in the production and repair of composite materials to ensure efficiency and quality. Some of their responsibilities include:
- Making cold bond and hot bond repairs
- Managing the utilization of LOTO procedures, OSHA safety standards, and GMPA procedures
- Working with various materials, such as fiberglass and graphite
- Fabricating and maintaining parts from stock
- Complete OSHA-required coursework
- Working alongside the QA department
- Reviewing and maintaining OSHA-related paperwork
- Working in hazardous environments and using the appropriate PPE equipment
- Inspecting layers to make sure they’re FOD-free
- Inspecting components to ensure they meet certain specifications
- Welding damaged parts on molds
- Adding mods to existing fleets
- Drilling and installing damaged titanium and aluminum ribs, skins, and wing spars
- Reviewing blueprints and instructions
- Maintaining tools and equipment
- Documenting work according to company guidelines
As you can see, composite technicians are responsible for a wide range of duties!
How to Become a Composite Technician
To be in this career, you need to at least have a high school diploma or GED certificate. While technicians are sometimes referred to as engineers, you do not need an engineering degree to become a composite technician. However, an advanced degree can certainly be helpful, especially if you’re looking to grow your career in this field.
Some composite technicians even go on to earn their master’s degrees. In addition to the educational requirements, you also typically need to have some experience working with composite materials. You also need to have reliable transportation and be able to stand for extended periods of time.
Are You Ready to Start a Career?
Successful composite technicians have a solid combination of technical skills and people skills. So, if you’re interested in a career as a composite technician, contact us today!
