The Essential Skilled Trades Driving the Aerospace Industry
Innovation in aircraft engineering doesn’t lift off without the skilled trades that keep it running. From maintaining engines to crafting advanced components for aircraft and spacecraft projects, these behind-the-scenes experts power progress in aviation. Here’s a closer look at the trades shaping the future of flight and the careers available through our recruitment expertise.
Discover opportunities within our extensive network here.
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Mechanics and service technicians are the backbone of aircraft maintenance. From inspecting engines to maintaining complex avionics systems on military aircraft and commercial planes alike, these experts ensure every flight is safe and efficient. Their work is in high demand, making them central to flight technologies operations.
Avionics Technicians
Modern aircraft rely on cutting-edge aviation technologies, and avionics technicians keep them running. Managing communication, navigation, and monitoring systems, they are critical to safety and operational efficiency. Airlines, defence contractors, and manufacturers actively seek technicians skilled across aircraft and spacecraft systems.
Sheet Metal Workers
Every aircraft and spacecraft starts as a blueprint, and sheet metal workers bring designs to life. Precision in cutting, shaping, and assembling metal components ensures structures remain strong, safe, and ready to perform. Skilled tradespeople in this area are key contributors to aircraft engineering innovation.
Welders and Fabricators
Welders and fabricators specialise in high-performance metals for aircraft and spacecraft. From engine parts to fuselage sections, their precision work enables innovation across the sector. Ongoing developments in flight technologies mean their expertise is always in demand.
Composite Technicians
Lightweight and durable composite materials like carbon fibre are transforming aviation. Composite technicians shape and perfect these components, ensuring safety and performance for both commercial and military aircraft. Their work lies at the heart of aircraft engineering innovation.
Precision Machinists
Precision is everything in aircraft production. Machinists create intricate components using advanced tools and CAD software, supporting high-performance aircraft and spacecraft projects and helping the sector push technological boundaries.
Quality Control Inspectors
Quality control inspectors guarantee that every system and component meets strict safety and performance standards. Their attention to detail ensures that flight technologies are deployed reliably across both commercial and military aircraft programs.
Your Future in Aviation
"The need for skilled tradespeople in aircraft engineering is constant. These professionals drive innovation, support mission-critical projects, and uphold operational safety. Through our aerospace recruitment expertise and extensive network, we connect talented individuals with roles where their impact is immediate and meaningful," says Lee Reid, Lead Aerospace Recruiter at Matchtech.
A career in aircraft engineering isn’t just joining an industry it’s shaping the future. Skilled trades are the backbone of innovation and safety, turning ideas into action. Ready to build the next generation of flight? Explore our aerospace jobs today and take the next step in your career.