Expert: David A. NewMyer - 9/8/2007

Question
Dear Prof,
Thank you for the way you have been answering our questions.I have a masters degree in Aeronautical Science, and Pursuing my Ph.D in Business administrtion from Northcentral University, specializing in Applied Computer Science and Aviation/Aerospace Operations. I have a multiple Visa for the United States. What are the chances of I getting something to do in either academia side or industries in the U.S? For your information, I am based in Africa.


I have applied for jobs in a number of African airlines but the answer I get is that I am over qualified for their positions. What do you think about my career advancement from the U.S, a little bit tricky or should I give it a chance?

Once again thank you for your support.


Paul

Answer
Paul,

Getting started in any aviation career field in the US is a case of the chicken or the egg:  Which comes first, the job or experience?  The problem is that most US aviation industry locations will ask for experience, as will most academic institutions.  However, a way to get around that is to apply for those positions that are considered "entry level" where experience is not as important as a particular skill or capability (such as computer operations, etc).   I would think that someone with advanced studies in the computer area will be attractive to some part of the aviation industry, particularly those parts that support airline reservations and aviation logistics (which require a lot of computer support).  On the academic side, there are a number of community colleges that look for aviation instructors and do not always want lots of experience....and, at the start of an academic year, some four year institutions are also looking for personnel to teach (check with Embry Riddle in particular since they hire in some volume).  

A recommendation on the academic side is to join the University Aviation Association as a Professional Member since they send out a newsletter every two months filled with employment ads at aviation universities.  Their website is www.uaa.aero and their member application is right on their website.

Best wishes to you,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale