Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Prepared for careers in aerospace infrastructure, this program equips students with the technical expertise to design, maintain, and manage critical ground-based systems that enable safe and efficient flight and space operations. Emphasis is placed on integrating engineering principles with hands-on application across complex mechanical, electrical, and environmental systems.
- Computer Science and Electronics: Core concepts in digital systems, circuitry, and software applications essential for modern aerospace ground equipment diagnostics and control.
- Basic Sciences and Quantitative Methods: Foundational knowledge in physics, chemistry, and mathematics to analyze system performance and solve technical challenges.
- Air Conditioning and Refrigeration: Principles of thermal management systems used in aircraft ground support and environmental control units.
- Corrosion Control: Techniques for identifying, preventing, and mitigating material degradation in harsh operational environments.
- Fluid Power Systems: Study of hydraulic and pneumatic systems used in aircraft towing, lifting, and servicing equipment.
- Hazardous Materials Handling: Safe procedures for managing fuels, lubricants, and other regulated substances in ground operations.
- Industrial Safety Protocols: Standards and best practices for risk mitigation, emergency response, and compliance in high-demand aerospace maintenance settings.
- Maintenance Management: Strategic approaches to scheduling, documentation, and lifecycle planning for ground support assets.
- Vehicle and Equipment Operation: Practical training in operating specialized ground support machinery, including tow tractors, ground power units, and fueling systems.
- Application to Ground Support Systems: Real-world integration of technical knowledge across aircraft ground power, servicing, and handling equipment used in aviation and space launch environments.
Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology degrees, including Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 9,060 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians 17-3021 | $79,830 | $53,730 - $120,440 | 9,060 | $38.38 |
Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $46,620 in Michigan to $124,290 in Colorado—a 167% difference. The highest-paying states include Colorado, Washington, and Alaska. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 9,060 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 2 institutions offering Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology is found at Liberty University (68 graduates), and Lake Superior State University (LSSU) (2 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 70 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty University |
Bachelor's
|
68 | Lynchburg, Virginia | Private | liberty.edu |
| Lake Superior State University (LSSU) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
2 | Sault Ste Marie, Michigan | Public | lssu.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology degree?
Salaries for Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology graduates vary by role and location. Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $79,830 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Colorado average $124,290 compared to $46,620 in Michigan. Approximately 9,060 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology programs?
Currently 2 accredited institutions offer Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Liberty University (68 graduates), Lake Superior State University (LSSU) (2 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 250 in 2010 to 70 in 2023-24. This represents a 72% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians. Related occupations employ approximately 9,060 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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