On a Vaughn campus tour, this Navy veteran made a stop in the Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) room that changed his trajectory and set him on a path to the space industry.
From Navy Aviation Technician to Vaughn College Engineering Student
Ryan Kurkela ’26 always liked building things and being hands-on, but it wasn’t until he decided to follow the family tradition of military service by joining the Navy that he discovered his interest in aviation while working as an aviation support technician. Still, when he returned to civilian life, he was hesitant about college and unclear on the career path he wanted to pursue. He decided to try a semester at Suffolk Community College, where he spoke to a guidance counselor about his desire to design and build, and learned about Vaughn College for the first time.
“I read about Vaughn, came for a tour and I lucked out and met Dr. Rahemi,” said Kurkela. “He took me into the UAV room, and I was introduced to the club president and I decided right then I had to join this club. I had zero knowledge of drones, but I knew that this is where I could get the skills to design, assemble, manufacture and build.” In 2022, Kurkela started at Vaughn in mechanical engineering and immediately joined the UAV club.
Leading Vaughn’s UAV Club and Competing in National Aerospace Design Competitions
Fast-forward a year and Kurkela was all in on drones and getting exactly the kind of hands-on experience he wanted through the UAV club and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) branch. As a sophomore, he was UAV team lead on a ground station project, which was entered and presented in the Design Build Vertical Flight Competition of the Vertical Flight Society (VFS), and the following year he was captain and lead designer on an AIAA competition drone—designing the fuselage structure and conducting structural analyses and
simulations. The student who had known so little about drones just a few years earlier was elected president of the UAV club and AIAA branch chair, serving from February 2023 through the end of his junior year in 2025. He also joined the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers in his sophomore year and became vice president in May of 2025.
Speaking about his experiences in the clubs and the competitions, Kurkela was enthusiastic about their importance and the opportunities they offer. “Vaughn is one of the rare schools that really encourages and helps students go to conferences and competitions. In my junior year when I was president of the UAV club, we built an AIAA competition drone and the Student Experience Fund supported our whole team to go to Arizona. It was our first year being accepted to compete—and we were all so excited. It was an amazing networking opportunity with engineers from around the world, and we were so thankful and happy to represent Vaughn.”
How a Vaughn Alumnus Led Him to the NASA L’Space Academy Program
“And the competitions and conferences are just one of the ways to network in the clubs,” he continued. “A lot of alumni like to stop in and see what’s happening and they really like to help the students. In fact, that was how I learned about the NASA Summer Academy—from an alum who had done it. And that changed my life.”
Kurkela applied and was accepted into the NASA L’Space Proposal Writing and Evaluation Experience (NPWEE) Academy Program for the summer of his sophomore year and had the opportunity to collaborate with 10 students to develop proposals for future NASA projects, utilizing Siemens NX software for design solutions. “Working with students from all around the country to come up with an idea to help benefit NASA missions to the moon, to Mars, for space travel,” he said, “doing that program is where my aerospace passion came from.”
Lockheed Martin Internship: Designing Mechanical Components for Aerospace Applications
He was able to pursue his newfound passion the following summer, when he secured an internship at Lockheed Martin in Huntsville, Alabama, in its space program. There he got to design mechanical components in Creo Parametric software, creating 3D models and assemblies for aerospace applications. While in Huntsville, he went to the space center and saw the Saturn V. “It’s one of the biggest rockets in history and it gave me such goosebumps. I knew in my heart I wanted to go into aerospace because it kind of defies the laws of gravity, being able to go up there. And I see my dream job in the space industry. I’m seeing the advances in space technology and how private companies are working with NASA and pushing for space exploration.”
After Graduation: Mechanical Engineer Role at Raytheon Technologies in Arizona
Asked about the job he’s accepted when he graduates this spring, Kurkela said, “I’ll be going out to Arizona when I graduate to be a mechanical engineer at Raytheon Technologies, which I’m very excited for and grateful that I’m advancing on the career path I’ve chosen. And I’m grateful to Vaughn for preparing me for my engineering future.”
Source: Vaughn Magazine, Spring 2026
Aviation is no longer simply about engines, pilots and runways. Some of the most exciting work in the field is happening behind the panels, screens, sensors and electronic systems that make modern flight possible. And that is where avionics comes in. Avionics is the technology that helps aircraft communicate, navigate, monitor performance and fly safely—and it can lead to exciting, career paths that many people don’t know exist in areas that include drones, satellites, autonomous systems, radar, robotics, aircraft electronics, flight controls, simulator technology and even amusement park ride controls.
At Vaughn College, students prepare for these future-focused careers through degrees in electronic engineering technology: avionics and electronic engineering technology: general electronics. Vaughn’s avionics programs help students build hands-on skills in electronic communication, navigation, radar, surveillance and flight control systems. These skills support careers in aircraft electronics, installation, troubleshooting and repair. The program also prepares graduates for careers in industries such as aerospace, computers, communications, medical, chemical, and energy supply—meaning your electronics background transfers well outside of aviation too.
What is Avionics?
Avionics is the high-tech side of aviation and essentially serves as the ‘electronic nervous system’ of an aircraft. These aircraft electronics systems help planes communicate, navigate, monitor performance and fly safely. From cockpit displays and radar to flight controls, navigation systems and onboard sensors, avionics technology keeps pilots informed, aircraft connected and flights operating smoothly. For students interested in aviation, electronics, robotics, computers or problem-solving, avionics provides a hands-on, future-focused career path.
What Systems are Part of Avionics?
Avionics includes many of the electronic systems that make modern flight possible. These include:
- Communication radios and satellite communication systems that keep pilots connected with air traffic control, ground teams and other aircraft.
- Navigation systems, including GPS and flight management systems to help aircraft follow accurate and efficient flight paths.
- Radar and weather detection systems that help pilots identify storms, turbulence and other conditions that could affect the flight.
- Surveillance and transponder systems that allow aircraft to share their position and be tracked by air traffic control.
- Autopilot and flight control systems that support aircraft stability, performance and pilot workload management.
- Cockpit displays and aircraft monitoring systems that give pilots real-time information about altitude, speed, engine performance, fuel and system health.
- Sensors, wiring, software and diagnostic equipment that connect power, monitor and troubleshoot the aircraft’s electronic systems.
Why Avionics Matters in Modern Aviation
Avionics matters because modern aircraft depend on advanced electronic systems to fly safely, efficiently and intelligently. From cockpit displays and navigation tools to radar, sensors and flight controls, avionics help pilots make informed decisions and keeps aircraft connected from takeoff to landing.
Aircraft are Becoming More Digitally Connected
Today’s aircraft are more connected than ever, especially as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance. Communication systems, GPS, flight management technology, sensors, predictive monitoring systems and onboard computers all work together to support safer and more efficient flight. As aviation continues to evolve with drones, electric aircraft and autonomous systems, avionics will play an even more important role in how aircraft operate and respond.
Avionics Blends Aviation, Electronics and Problem-Solving
Avionics is exciting because it combines the world of aviation with hands-on technology. Professionals in this field work with electronics, wiring, software, radar, navigation, diagnostic tools and control systems to solve real-world problems. Avionics is a strong path for students who enjoy figuring out how things work and want to use technology in a fast-moving, high-impact field.
Top Little-Known Avionics Careers Today
The following avionics career choices prove that aviation technology can take students far beyond the runway. From drones and satellites to flight testing, robotics and aircraft electronics, these in-demand, high-paying and high-potential careers offer the chance to work on advanced technologies that are shaping the future of flight, transportation and innovation. Vaughn’s avionics degrees described below will prepare students for these in-demand careers.
Drone / Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Avionics Specialist
Drone and uncrewed aircraft systems specialists work with many of the same technologies used in aircraft, including GPS, sensors, cameras, communication links, flight controllers, navigation systems and diagnostic software. These professionals may support industries that include aerospace, public safety, mapping, agriculture, defense, inspection and delivery technology.
Why it’s cool:
Drones are expanding far beyond hobby use and increasingly used in commercial, government and defense applications. This career blends aviation, robotics, electronics and automation. Students may work with technology that helps inspect bridges, support emergency response, map hard-to-reach locations or power the future of delivery and surveillance systems.
Pay and demand:
This path may align with avionics technician, robotics technician or aerospace engineering and operations technician roles. The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that avionics technicians earned a median annual wage of $81,390 in May 2024, while aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians earned $79,830. Overall employment for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians is projected to grow five percent from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 13,100 openings per year.
Spacecraft or Satellite Electronics Technician
Spacecraft and satellite electronics technicians may work on electronic systems used in satellites, spacecraft components, launch systems, testing equipment, communication systems and advanced aerospace technologies.
Why it’s cool:
This position applies avionics-style skills to space technology, satellites, spacecraft and advanced aerospace systems. A career as a spacecraft or satellite electronics technician takes students beyond the runway and into the space economy. This may involve supporting the electronics behind satellites, launch systems, aerospace testing and next-generation communication technology.
Pay and demand:
This path may align with aerospace engineering and operations technologist or technician roles. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that these professionals earned a median annual wage of $79,830 in May 2024, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $120,440.
Flight Test Instrumentation Technician
Flight test instrumentation technicians help set up, monitor and troubleshoot the sensors, wiring, data systems and electronic equipment used during aircraft testing. They may support new aircraft, aircraft modifications, experimental systems or aerospace research.
Why it’s cool:
This role puts technicians close to innovation, testing and next-generation aerospace technology. Instead of only maintaining existing systems, flight test professionals help collect the data needed by engineers to test new aircraft, improve performance and bring advanced aviation ideas to life.
Pay and demand:
This path often aligns with aerospace engineering and operations technology roles. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians earned a median annual wage of $79,830 in May 2024, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $120,440.
Robotics Systems Technician
Autonomous vehicles and robotics systems use many technologies that overlap with avionics, including sensors, radar, cameras, GPS, wiring, diagnostics, control systems and software-supported troubleshooting.
Why it’s cool:
This option gives students a pathway beyond aviation into automation, robotics and intelligent transportation. This career can take students into self-driving vehicles, warehouse robots, delivery robots, defense systems and advanced automation. These fields are redefining how people and goods move.
Pay and demand:
This path may align with robotics technician, electro-mechanical technician or aerospace technology roles. While pay varies by industry and role, Vaughn’s avionics associate degree page lists robotics technicians, aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians among related career prospects. The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians earned a median annual wage of $79,830 in May 2024. According to Lightcast data, the median annual salary in New York City for robotics technicians is $76,000.
Avionics Technician / Aircraft Electronics Specialist
Avionics technicians install, inspect, test and repair aircraft electronic systems, including communication, navigation, radar, flight control, cockpit display and aircraft monitoring systems.
Why it’s cool:
Avionics technicians work directly with the technology that keeps aircraft connected, responsive and safe in the sky. This is a hands-on career for students who want to solve real problems using advanced electronics.
Pay and demand:
The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that avionics technicians earned a median annual wage of $81,390 in May 2024. Overall employment for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians is projected to grow five percent from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 13,100 openings projected each year on average throughout the decade. According to Lightcast data, the median annual salary in New York City for avionics technicians is $95,000.
Amusement Park Ride Controls Technician
While not a traditional avionics job, amusement park ride controls are a fun and memorable example of where avionics-related skills may transfer. Modern rides and themed attractions rely on electronics, sensors, wiring, diagnostics, automation, motors, safety systems and programmable controls; many of which require the same problem-solving skills used in avionics.
Why it’s cool:
This path shows students that avionics skills can apply far beyond aircraft to disciplines that include entertainment technology, simulators, robotics, themed attractions and ride automation. This career applies serious technical skills to roller coasters, immersive attractions, motion simulators and interactive entertainment systems. It is a creative, hands-on and unique path for students who love technology and want to work on systems that people experience in exciting real-world environments.
Pay and demand:
Pay can vary widely based on employer, location and technical specialization. Students with skills in electrical controls, automation, robotics, mechatronics, diagnostics and safety-critical systems may be well positioned for related roles in entertainment technology and advanced systems maintenance.
Urban Air Mobility (eVTOL / Air Taxi) Avionics Engineer
Urban air mobility engineers work on the electronic systems powering the next generation of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, commonly known as air taxis. Companies are actively building these platforms, which require advanced avionics for autonomous or semi-autonomous flight, battery management, navigation, communications and safety systems in dense urban environments.
Why it’s cool:
This is one of the most forward-looking careers available to avionics graduates. Urban air mobility represents a brand-new category of aviation, and the engineers building it need the same foundational skills in avionics systems, sensors, electronics and flight controls that Vaughn’s program develops. It is a true ground-floor opportunity in a field that is growing rapidly. Vaughn College has been named the educational partner in the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s Federal Aviation Administration-selected pilot program for advanced air mobility, joining electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) manufacturers Joby Aviation, Archer, BETA Technologies and ELECTRA to help build a workforce pipeline to support electric air taxi operations in New York City.
Pay and demand:
Urban air mobility roles often align with aerospace engineering technologist and avionics engineer titles. The BLS reports aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians earned a median annual wage of $79,830 in May 2024, with top earners exceeding $120,440. Roles at eVTOL startups and major aerospace firms investing in urban air mobility may offer higher compensation due to the specialized nature of the work.
AI-Powered Predictive Maintenance Specialist
AI predictive maintenance specialists use artificial intelligence and sensor data to monitor aircraft systems in real time, identify early signs of component wear and predict failures before they happen. Rather than waiting for a problem to surface, these professionals help airlines and aerospace operators shift from scheduled maintenance to data-driven maintenance—reducing downtime, cutting costs and improving safety.
Why it’s cool:
This career sits at the intersection of avionics, data analysis and artificial intelligence—three of the most in-demand technology areas in aviation today. Avionics graduates bring unique value to this role because they understand the underlying aircraft electronic systems that generate the data, not just the software tools used to analyze it.
Pay and demand:
This is an emerging hybrid role that is not currently listed in the BLS, but roles in this space may align with avionics technician or aerospace engineer.
Film and Entertainment Aerial Systems Technician
Film and entertainment aerial systems technicians maintain and operate the complex avionics, stabilization, remote control and sensor systems on drones and camera aircraft used in film production, live event coverage, theme park attractions and immersive entertainment. This is a creative, high-visibility application of serious avionics skills.
Why it’s cool:
Most people do not think of Hollywood or theme parks when they think of avionics—but the drones and motion-controlled camera rigs used in modern film and entertainment rely on the same GPS, sensors, communication links and control systems found in commercial aviation. Technicians who can maintain, calibrate and troubleshoot these systems are a niche but in-demand part of production crews and attraction operations teams.
Pay and demand:
Pay in this field varies widely based on employer, project type and location. Technicians may work on a contract or full-time basis for production companies, theme park operators, broadcast networks or aerial photography firms. The underlying skills—electronics, sensors, wiring, diagnostics, automation and safety-critical systems—are the same as those used in aviation-focused avionics roles.
The Skills Students Need to Succeed in Avionics
Avionics is a strong fit for students who enjoy technology, aviation and hands-on problem-solving. Since this field combines aircraft systems, electronics, diagnostics and safety, students need both technical knowledge and the ability to think clearly, communicate well and work carefully under pressure.
Technical Skills
Students pursuing avionics careers should develop a strong foundation in aircraft electronics and troubleshooting systems. Important technical skills include:
- Reading wiring diagrams, schematics and technical manuals
- Understanding communication, navigation, radar and surveillance systems
- Working with sensors, wiring, circuits and electronic components
- Using diagnostic tools and testing equipment
- Troubleshooting aircraft electronic systems
- Understanding cockpit displays, flight controls and monitoring systems
- Following safety procedures and documentation requirements
- Learning software-supported diagnostics and system updates
Soft Skills
In avionics, technical ability is only part of the job. Professionals also need strong soft skills because they often work on complex systems where accuracy, safety and teamwork matter. Key soft skills include:
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Adaptability
- Patience and focus
- A strong safety mindset
- Willingness to keep learning as technology evolves
Frequently Asked Questions About Avionics Careers
In simple terms, what exactly is avionics?
Avionics is aviation electronics. It includes the electronic systems used by aircraft to communicate, navigate, monitor performance and fly safely, such as radar, GPS, cockpit displays, sensors, flight controls and communication systems.
Do avionics careers require a four-year degree?
Avionics roles don’t always require four-year degrees. Some avionics careers may be available with an associate degree, certificate, military training or hands-on technical experience. A bachelor’s degree can, however, help students prepare for more advanced roles in engineering technology, systems testing, design, leadership or specialized aerospace technology.
What is the best degree in avionics?
The best degree in avionics depends on a student’s career goals. Strong options include an associate or bachelor’s degree in avionics, electronic engineering technology, electrical engineering technology, aviation maintenance or a related technical field. Students interested in advanced technical or systems-focused roles may benefit from a bachelor’s degree, while those seeking entry-level technician roles may begin with an associate degree or specialized training.
Is avionics the same as aviation maintenance?
Avionics and aviation maintenance are related, but they are not the same. Avionics focuses specifically on aircraft electronics such as communication, navigation, radar, surveillance, sensors, cockpit displays and flight control systems. Aviation maintenance is broader and may include engines, airframes, mechanical systems, inspections, repairs and overall aircraft safety. In many aviation careers, the two areas overlap.
What careers can be pursued with an avionics degree?
An avionics degree can prepare students for careers that include avionics technician, aircraft electronics installer, aviation inspector, radar and navigation systems technician, flight test instrumentation technician, drone or uncrewed aircraft systems specialist, aerospace engineering and operations technician, robotics technician, spacecraft or satellite electronics technician and avionics support specialist.
Is avionics a good career path for you?
If you are a student who is curious about aviation, electronics, technology and how complex systems work, avionics can be an excellent career path. If you enjoy hands-on problem-solving, working with advanced equipment and being part of the technology that keeps aircraft safe and connected, avionics offers a future-focused path with opportunities in aviation, aerospace, drones, robotics, satellites and other emerging technology fields.
Schedule a visit to learn more about Vaughn today!
Vaughn College is helping prepare the next generation of air traffic controllers through its new Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (Enhanced AT-CTI). The program recently reached an exciting milestone: Its first class of nine students completed the two-semester program with a 100% pass rate.
For students who dream of careers in aviation, few roles carry as much responsibility (or as much purpose) as that of an air traffic controller. Air traffic controllers help keep the national airspace moving safely and efficiently every day, guiding pilots, passengers and aircraft through some of the most complex environments in aviation.
This achievement is more than a graduation story. It is a powerful example of how Vaughn responds to a national need, having become a partner approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the College provides an accelerated pathway for students to launch meaningful careers in air traffic control.
What Is the FAA Enhanced AT-CTI Program at Vaughn College?
Vaughn was approved by the FAA in April 2025 to offer the Enhanced AT-CTI program, which allows direct placement of eligible graduates into FAA facilities for controller training (bypassing training time at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City). To reach that point, students must meet certain requirements, pass the FAA’s Air Traffic Skills Assessment exam and satisfy medical and security requirements.
Inaugural Class Achieves 100% Pass Rate
For the inaugural class, the outcome speaks for itself: Nine students enrolled, and each completed the program. These nine students are now prepared to move forward in one of aviation’s most essential careers.
“The Vaughn community is incredibly proud of all nine students who are now well educated and skilled to take positions as air traffic controllers with the Federal Aviation Administration,” said Vaughn College President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo. “The success of these students speaks to the investment that this institution was able to provide. We are so grateful to the faculty and staff who ensured this exciting outcome; a life changing trajectory for every student.”
That life-changing trajectory is what makes the Enhanced AT-CTI program so compelling. Students are not simply learning in a classroom. They are training in an environment designed to mirror the demands, discipline and decision-making required in the field.
How Vaughn College Trains the Next Generation of Air Traffic Controllers
Vaughn’s enhanced program underwent an extensive FAA review to demonstrate its provision of a high-level curriculum, experienced instructors (many of whom have worked as air traffic controllers themselves) and advanced technology that reflects the experience offered by the FAA’s Academy Training in Oklahoma City.
High-Fidelity Simulation Systems
Using high-fidelity simulation systems, students practice the skills needed to manage pressure, communicate clearly and make decisions in real time. This simulator-based preparation is a defining feature of Vaughn’s air traffic control program, and graduates say it meaningfully shapes their readiness for the field.
Graduate Morris Johnson ’26, reflected on how Vaughn’s simulator-based training helped sharpen his awareness and adaptability. “The simulator and the real world are totally different. I learned to be mindful that I can’t be fixated on one thing,” Johnson said.
A Training Tradition Since 1997
This kind of practical, hands-on preparation is a defining strength of Vaughn’s air traffic control program. Since 1997, Vaughn has offered air traffic controller training. Graduates have gone on to work throughout the region at locations including LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy International and Westchester County Airports, as well as across the country in locations such as Miami and Hawaii.
The Enhanced AT-CTI program builds on that legacy while creating a faster, more direct route into the field. For students, this means access to specialized training, close faculty support and a clearer connection between classroom learning and career outcomes. For the aviation industry, it means a promising new pipeline of skilled, prepared and motivated air traffic controllers.
What Vaughn AT-CTI Graduates Say About Their Training
For graduate Yanni Agrotis ’26, the moment represents both personal pride and professional responsibility.
“It feels like there’s duty to be done, and it feels like I’m putting my badge on my shoulder like I’m ready to handle something very important,” Agrotis said.
That sense of responsibility is central to both air traffic control and Vaughn’s training approach. Students learn not only the technical requirements of the role, but also the focus and composure needed when every decision matters.
“The pressure is definitely the feeling of knowing there are lives on the line and one mistake, or a series of mistakes, could cause an issue,” Agrotis said. “So, being on your toes or being alert, you have to be awake, and you have to really know that this is such a big responsibility. But I think at the end of the day you’re going to feel rewarded for doing it.”
Another graduate, Andrew Stokes ’26 also commented about the rewarding nature of the role: “What I like about air traffic control is that every day is definitely going to be different when we get to our first facilities. It’s hard work, but very rewarding as well.”
Vaughn College and the National Air Traffic Controller Shortage
Additionally, this milestone has drawn media attention, with local television coverage spotlighting Vaughn’s first Enhanced AT-CTI graduates and the College’s role in helping address the national air traffic controller shortage. The FAA needs to hire 2,200 air traffic controllers in 2026, 2,300 in 2027 and 2,400 in 2028 to meet national demand and alleviate the shortage, which will help decrease flight delays and cancellations. The FAA is already 60% toward meeting this year’s hiring goal, with the help of Vaughn College and other AT-CTI schools.
Vaughn Vice President of Training Domenic Proscia praised the inaugural class for the effort and discipline required to complete the program.
“These students worked tirelessly using advanced high fidelity simulations systems under the close supervision of skilled instructors,” Proscia said. “The result was that they were able to pass their evaluations and are now poised to be assigned directly into tower facilities to begin their careers as controllers. We are proud of them and those who will follow in their footsteps as we continue to prepare the next generation of aviation professionals who will contribute to the safety and efficiency of our skies.”
Start Your Air Traffic Control Career at Vaughn College
As the first nine graduates move toward FAA facilities and begin the next phase of their training, their success marks a proud moment for Vaughn College and represents a strong signal of what is ahead.
The Enhanced AT-CTI program is not only preparing students for careers. This program is helping strengthen the future of aviation, one controller at a time.
Ready to turn your focus, quick thinking and passion for aviation into a career as an air traffic controller? Apply today!
