Aviation & Aerospace
Soar to New Heights
Aerospace and aviation companies like Collins Aerospace Interiors, North State Aviation, and Piedmont Propulsions have set down roots in Winston-Salem, growing both their manufacturing and corporate operations. The workforce in this sector is diverse, ranging from aircraft designers and engineers to technical manufacturers. As the aerospace and aviation industry continues to grow, so do the region’s training programs and educational offerings. Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Career and Technical Education pathways offer aviation and drone coursework to help students get started in the field. Meanwhile, Forsyth Technical Community College’s aviation center at Smith Reynolds Airport offers two programs of study for associate degrees. The 53,000-square-foot lab can house up to eight aircraft and includes classrooms and components labs.
Across the region and state, aviation and aerospace operations are in good company in a strong industry sector. North Carolina’s State of Aviation report for 2023 finds the aviation sector generates $72 billion in economic impact.
Facts & Rankings
$88644
Average Annual Salary
#3
Aerospace Manufacturing Attractiveness (North Carolina, PwC 2023)
#5
Aerospace Manufacturing (North Carolina, Area Development 2020)
250+
Net New Jobs in the Past Five Years
Is Aviation & Aerospace the Right Industry for You?
You may be interested in the aviation field if you like hands on work in a dynamic environment. Skills needed to thrive in the aviation industry include attention to detail, teamwork, math and reading proficiency, and a mechanical aptitude. This industry requires a combination of training and education to not only gain knowledge and skills, but practical experience.
Below are some of the most in-demand Aviation & Aerospace jobs in Forsyth County
Careers in Aviation & Aerospace
Did you know North Carolina was ranked the No. 3 Best State for Aerospace Manufacturing by PwC in 2023?
Descriptions Source: O*Net
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer Systems Analysts analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
$63,200- $139,900
Associates Degree
Aircraft Mechanics & Service Technicians
Mechanics and service technicians diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul aircraft engines and assemblies, such as hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
$40,300- $78,700
Associates Degree
Industrial Engineer
Industrial Engineers design, develop, test, and evaluate integrated systems for managing industrial production processes, including human work factors, quality control, inventory control, logistics and material flow, cost analysis, and production coordination.
$65,200- $122,800
Bachelors Degree
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
$40,300- $78,700
Bachelors Degree
Machinist
Machinists set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.
$35,100- $72,700
Associates Degree
Get Trained for a Career in Aviation & Aerospace
Forsyth Tech
Forsyth Tech’s Aviation Systems Technology program prepares students to become FAA-approved aircraft mechanics. With a curriculum covering aviation mathematics, regulations, aircraft systems, and engine maintenance, graduates can pursue entry-level positions in the aviation industry with airlines, manufacturers, repair stations, and more.
Wake Forest University
As one of the newest undergraduate engineering programs in the nation, Wake Engineering has had the unique opportunity to design the entire B.S. Engineering experience in a holistic and innovative manner. WE have engaged partners from across the liberal arts disciplines, and institutions around the country, to develop a curriculum that is authentically grounded in the engineering fundamentals and Wake Forest University’s exceptional liberal arts tradition.
Our Wake Forest University BS Engineering degree is officially ABET Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC), although our target for program success goes far beyond. We welcome your interest in our journey, and your support of our program, in whatever collaboration makes us both stronger. We also welcome you into our Wake Engineering community.