In the world of aviation maintenance, success rarely comes overnight. It’s earned—through hard-won knowledge, long hours on the job, and the kind of credentials that validate both experience and potential. Among these, the Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification has become an increasingly powerful catalyst for career advancement. Not just a line on a résumé, AET certification is proof of foundational expertise in avionics—and real technicians on Reddit are sharing how it helped them level up.
“It’s Worth It”: From Certification to Repairman Privileges
One Redditor from the r/avionics community put it bluntly:
“It’s worth it. Not very difficult at all, and if you get your AET plus an endorsement, that makes you eligible to obtain your repairman’s license.”
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This firsthand account cuts through the theory: the AET isn’t just a theoretical credential—it’s a practical one. With the NCATT AET certification, technicians can fast-track toward repairman certification under FAA rules, a requirement at many Part 145 repair stations. The endorsement system also allows technicians to specialize further, creating career pathways in areas like radio communication systems or foreign object elimination (FOE).
New Industry Standard: AET vs. GROL
Several technicians on Reddit have pointed out the AET’s increasing industry weight compared to traditional FCC licenses like the General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL). As one user noted:
“Many organizations are moving towards the AET as the avionics technician certification of choice over the FCC GROL… I see a lot more employers wanting the AET now.”
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For those wondering about the AET vs. A&P certification debate or whether to pursue both, this trend is meaningful. While A&P remains essential for mechanical work, AET is proving its place as the premier choice for avionics specialists.
Foundation First: The Value of Technical Understanding
Beyond job prospects, technicians see value in the AET’s curriculum itself.
“The AET is worth doing just to get a basic understanding of electronics fundamentals, which will make practical learning much more effective,” shared another Redditor.
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Courses like the AET certification training program are designed to provide technicians with a structured introduction to key electronic concepts—signal processing, aircraft wiring, digital systems—that are indispensable in modern aircraft maintenance. This makes it especially valuable for those transitioning from military backgrounds or mechanical roles into avionics.
A Realistic Perspective: AET as Part of a Long-Term Growth Plan
While many applaud the AET’s benefits, experienced technicians also emphasize the importance of combining it with field experience and other credentials. One veteran technician reflected:
“Out of my A&P, AET, and FCC GROL… the only one really worth anything is the A&P. The other two just kinda look good. Get your A&P and get out to start working.”
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This sentiment reminds aspiring technicians that AET certification isn’t a golden ticket—it’s a stepping stone. When paired with practical experience and possibly an A&P license, the AET can significantly strengthen a technician’s technical profile and marketability.
Patience and Persistence: What It Takes to Truly “Level Up”
Whether it’s your first step into aviation or a mid-career specialization, Reddit technicians agree on one thing: success takes time.
“Listen, watch, and learn. Realize that it will take at least two years before you really know enough to be good at this job,” advised a user on r/aviationmaintenance.
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The AET certification provides the technical vocabulary and theoretical grounding, but consistent hands-on experience is what solidifies that knowledge. Programs like Sprott Learning’s AET course allow flexible, self-paced study—an ideal fit for working professionals committed to long-term growth.
Real Career Outcomes: What Redditors Reveal
From these Reddit stories, a typical trajectory begins to emerge:
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A technician enrolls in an online NCATT AET course, using practice tests and study guides.
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After certification, they leverage the credential to secure employment or a promotion.
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With additional endorsements or an A&P license, they unlock broader job opportunities in diagnostics, installation, or systems troubleshooting.
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Over time, they grow into senior roles—often leading teams or overseeing avionics departments.
Conclusion: Certification That Translates into Opportunity
AET certification is more than a paper credential—it’s a bridge between knowledge and opportunity. Whether it’s unlocking FAA repairman privileges, standing out in job applications, or deepening your understanding of electronics systems, the stories shared by real technicians confirm its worth. For those ready to take the next step, registering for the AET certification isn’t just a box to check—it’s a powerful investment in a technical career that’s built to last.
Ready to level up? Your story could be next.