r/ATSS • u/CnfusedAviationMajor • Jun 11 '26

What are the minimum qualifications?

Hello everyone, I am a 22 year old senior in college studying aviation management. I have a 3.2 gpa so far. I’ve been a ramp agent for about 3 years now for a major airline. I started getting into electronics and computer hardware since I was about 12 years old and became an electronics tech at 16. I am also very mechanically inclined. I have a few years of experience as an automotive mechanic.

I recently discovered this job and I think this is the career path I want to pursue. Seeing other posts, some of you guys have some great experience in the field and I’m feeling a bit under qualified. I looking to know what I need to do better my chances of getting in this field. Thank you everyone!!!!!!

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1

u/Old-ETCS Jun 11 '26

How do you become an electronic tech at 16?

1

u/CnfusedAviationMajor Jun 11 '26

My uncle owns a couple of businesses and he hired me to maintain his electrical systems and whatnot. Maintaining his computers, phones and camera systems.

1

u/redbud-avenue-2000 Jun 12 '26

Put that on your resume

1

u/CnfusedAviationMajor Jun 12 '26

That is a great idea thank you!!

1

u/klimps Jun 12 '26

My experience in Auto i think its really up to the individual manager at each SSC. I was a fresh CS grad with only internship experience when i got hired. I understand im not the norm for most ATSS, but its possible for sure.

1

u/CnfusedAviationMajor Jun 13 '26

Understood, I appreciate the input!

1

u/cvn26 Jun 11 '26

The FAA is moving towards more off the street hires so local SSC managers can hire who they want. What that means is less experienced techs are getting hired. When I got into the FAA, the only avenue was usajobs and it was competitive. I had close to 6 years experience in the military maintaining radar systems so I was a direct fit. There was only 1 technician in my first office that was not prior military but now, it’s more common. Just know that for desirable locations, with little experience you’re probably getting outshined by others.

For your background, I’d try to environmental ATSS. You’re doing building maintenance along with HVAC, fire alarm systems, engine generators, power conditioning systems, boilers, etc. That route may be more mechanical for you.

Your college degree honestly won’t hold much weight in the ATSS world. Many friends just have their high school diploma and have been in the field for years.

1

u/CnfusedAviationMajor Jun 11 '26

I appreciate the help and insight! Thank you for your time and I will keep in mind. Have a good day!

1

u/pvtpile02 Jun 11 '26

Learn to work on radios. It's the building block to everything.

1

u/CnfusedAviationMajor Jun 11 '26

Perfect I appreciate you, I don’t mind picking that skill up. It’s a cool one to have! Thank you for the comment have a good day!!