Lifelong learning: an imperative for employment in part of the avionics sector

Abstract

This article addresses the requirement for personnel employed in the avionics sector of civil aviation to continue to update their skills throughout their careers. It notes that the industry is at the cutting edge of technical innovation and change and serves as a paradigmatic illustration of the economic argument for the necessity for lifelong learning. The article reviews technical development within the avionics industry and the new skills apposite to these developments. The industry has espoused National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and other qualifications but there are tensions between the needs for transparency, flexibility and reliability of the certification processes that may have equivalents in other industries. The current difficulties experienced by employers in obtaining and retaining suitable qualified staff will be utlined, including reference to: (a) the education and training provision; (b) education and skills certification required; (c) future skills requirements and avionics developments and briefly draws parallels with other industries. The financial costs to personnel and employers are alluded to, and reference to the current debate about upskilling within the general workforce is made.