Avionics MOS’s transfer to Civilian jobs? Reservist (Army, reserves, National Guard)

[Midwestguy10]

I’m considering reclassifying to an Avionics MOS (always has peaked my interest), currently a 12w (carpentry/masonry) in the Army Reserves.
There is plenty of Avionics MOS’s available in my state and surrounding state, but i would have to transfer to the MN National Guard to do so, which isn’t a problem.
Just curious if any of these MOS’s are transferable to be able to work in the Avionics side in Civilian life? I’ve heard mixed answers.
Choices are:
15B Aircraft Powerplant Repair
15D Aircraft PowerTrain Repair
15E Unmanned Aircraft Systems Repair
15F Aircraft Electrician
15G Aircraft Structural Repair
15H Aircraft Pneudtaulics Repair
15N Avionics Mechanic
15P Avionics Operations
15Q Air Traffic Control Operator
15T UH-60 Helicopter Repair
15U CH-47 Helicopter Repair

Just looking for insight if anyone has experience in the civilian world after reclass training.
Thanks!

[KayAnn246]

Yes, there are many positions at aviation companies that work with the Army. I was Avionics in the Army. Most of the position translated into civilian careers. I'm not sure about NG because I was active duty. But you will work with civilian contractors that were once in the military. They will be able to guide you and mentor you into the transition to a civilian career. Many soldiers I worked with went on to have successful careers at Boeing and working for the military overseas.
You will enjoy it. Good Luck!

[TomC23]

Of the MOS's listed, 15B, 15F, 15G, and 15N are the most likely to result in employment. The schools will give you the skills that are very much in demand. Keep in mind that these jobs may not be local and you will probably have to travel.

15E, 15T, and 15U, will teach you aircraft maintenance but to exploit that you will need to get your FAA A&P certificate to have a job in the civilian world. However, as a A&P you will probably be able to stay closer home as just about every GA airport could always provide work for a good A&P.


15H is normally not a specialty in the civilian world and is done as everyday work by aircraft mechanics.

15P has no civilian world use except perhaps a aircraft dispatcher. Again, you'll need to get additional training to get your FAA certificate.

15Q. Right now there is a hiring backlog with the FAA. People who have applied years ago are still waiting for employment. Some will not be hired at all. Plus, out of all the branches of service, the Army gives you the least actual training/work to get a job as a civilian ATC.

My background is ex Army UH1 mechanic and also ex Army ATC. I've been retired from FAA ATC for over ten years. I'm still heavily involved with aviation in my retirement. I hope you find my suggestions useful. Good luck with whatever you decide.

[oldsoldier1976]

Originally Posted by Midwestguy10

I’m considering reclassifying to an Avionics MOS (always has peaked my interest), currently a 12w (carpentry/masonry) in the Army Reserves.
There is plenty of Avionics MOS’s available in my state and surrounding state, but i would have to transfer to the MN National Guard to do so, which isn’t a problem.
Just curious if any of these MOS’s are transferable to be able to work in the Avionics side in Civilian life? I’ve heard mixed answers.
Choices are:
15B Aircraft Powerplant Repair
15D Aircraft PowerTrain Repair
15E Unmanned Aircraft Systems Repair
15F Aircraft Electrician
15G Aircraft Structural Repair
15H Aircraft Pneudtaulics Repair
15N Avionics Mechanic
15P Avionics Operations
15Q Air Traffic Control Operator
15T UH-60 Helicopter Repair
15U CH-47 Helicopter Repair

Just looking for insight if anyone has experience in the civilian world after reclass training.
Thanks!

If you get in the guard in one of those MOS's you could even work full time for them as a civilian employee of the DOD. It would be a protected civil service job with pension and 401k savings program.