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California is full of animators hoping their cartoon or comic strip will become the next sensation. Some artistic flair is necessary, but most animators need more than talent with pen and paper, computer skills are an integral part of today’s animations.
Take a look at the ever popular South Park®. The animations team does not draw figures, instead they started with cardboard cutouts to create the always lovable, but sometimes crude main characters Stan, Kyle, Eric, Kenny, and their families and friends for a couple of episodes. After that, they switched solely to computer animations.
It is important to realize that a career in Animation takes time and energy. Many of today’s best animators got their start on the very bottom of the career ladder. A college degree in media arts is required and then most animators start out as low-level assistants and work their way up. Gaining a college degree is not as easy as it may seem!
San Francisco is home to one of the best art universities in California. Academy of Art Institute debuted in 1929 and has honed the skills of many including Deanne Maurice, a Pulitzer Price winner; Mari Matsumoto, a highly praised fashion designer; and John Seasick, producer and director of Voyeur. The professors are also well known. Many of them have worked on some of today’s top films including The Lion King, Mars Attacks, Men In Black II, Star Wars Episode II, and Tarzan.
Anyone trying to become an animator must be ready to work long, difficult hours. Work loads can be heavy one month and then low the next. At Academy of Art Institute, 132 credit hours are necessary to gain a Bachelor’s degree. Required courses include:
- 20th Century Art
- 3-D Modeling
- Analysis of Form
- Anatomy
- Animation Perspective
- Animation Portfolio
- Art History
- Color and Design
- Computer Animation Production
- Computer Graphics
- Digital Photo
- English Composition
- Facial Expressions
- Figure Drawing
- Figure Modeling
- Gestual Figures
- Hard Surface Modeling
- Head and Figure Sculpting
- Heads and Hands
- History of the U.S.
- History of Animations
- Modeling
- Narrative Documentary
- Narrative Storytelling
- Organic Modeling
- Photo Storyboarding
- Texturing and Lighting
- VFX Environments
- Z-Brush Modeling
Other electives are required to fill in Math, History, Science, English, and Physical Education requirements. After four years, those who have completed the necessary requirements will gain a degree and then need to find jobs. Many graduates find it easier to find teaching jobs first and then build up experience while waiting for their dream job. Others manage to land starting positions with animations companies and then must slowly work their way up the career ladder.
Looking at Monster, there are a few positions that those with degrees in animations could accept. It is important to understand that the market is highly competitive and thinking out side of the box is often necessary. One listing states they will consider anyone with a Bachelor’s degree, but they would prefer applicants to also have knowledge of website programming. Dreamworks often hires animators, but they require three years of experience before considering anyone for a job. Finally, one of the major television studios is looking for production assistants that have a degree in animations and are willing to be a gopher.
Duties include running computer programs, picking up food and beverages for meetings, running the president’s personal errands, answering phones, researching necessary items on the internet, and picking up or making deliveries. The job duties are varied, but it is a way to get your foot in the door. Starting salaries tend to begin at $550 a week, which can be hard to live on in certain areas of California. After a few years of experience, an average salary is $58,000 per year.
Dreamworks has an entry-level position that may appeal to those needing to start their career. Animations Technical Director/Engineers must handle all data saves and backups, monitor available disk space, test software, help with production control, and handle all other jobs assigned by the management. Walt Disney is another option. Their entry-level jobs often require expertise in Flash Animations, web design knowledge, and strong verbal and written skills.
All of these jobs require skill with Photoshop, Illustrator, and Flash. HTML knowledge is also important. The programs you learn in college can be a huge help in finding a decent job after graduation. When at all possible, take as many different computer classes as possible for electives.
Those interested in a career in animations must gain a degree, take as many computer courses as possible, and be prepared to work hard to reach decent salary levels. Many animators will say the most important thing to realize is that animators are a dime a dozen, it is your perseverance that helps you achieve your dream.
View a list of schools in California offering animation programs.
There are more than 55,000 plumbers in California, and the career field keeps growing. On average, plumbers in California make $16 to $30 per hour depending on the training and years in the field. Schooling is not required to become a plumber, but those who skip a vocational training program must have completed an apprenticeship with a licensed plumber.
Plumbers have a number of options when it comes to work. Most people think of a plumber as one who comes to fix a leaky pipe, faucet, or other water related fixture, but plumbers can do far more. Plumbers can install or repair boilers on a furnace, hot water tanks, sewer lines, sprinkler systems, water purification systems, and well systems. Different specialties offer high pay scales, but they may come with more risks. Someone working on boilers has a much higher risk of getting severe burns.
The Daily Operation of Being a Plumber
On a daily basis, those employed in the plumbing field will use blue prints, pipe cutters, Teflon tape, welding torches, hammers, pipe threaders, and pipe bending tools. It is important that any plumber be properly trained to diagnose problems and use the tools to fix the problem quickly and effectively. Plumbers installing new water fixtures often work in new buildings that are not heated. A tolerance to the cold is often necessary, especially in areas of Northern California.
Training and Education
Apprenticeships can be difficult to get in California, so a number of schools now offer vocational programs to help interested men and women learn Plumbing Technology and enter the field of interest. A typical program includes instruction on reading blueprints, installing pipes, working with gas and water heating systems, and working with septic or sewer systems. Wyotech offers the best plumbing program in California, but the school has no tolerance for partying. Those expecting to attend college and party will quickly find that Wyotech’s Zero Tolerance policy ensures students are there to learn, not play.
During a plumbing degree program, it is usually required to work with a licensed plumber during schooling, usually for a total of four years before going out on his or her own. Plumbing can be very tiring and tedious work. Upper body strength is involved, especially for pipe layers who are hefting copper or PVC piping around all day. Plumbing can be extremely messy, especially for plumbers who work on residential emergencies. Outdoor leaks can mean water pipes need to be unearthed first making for muddy conditions. Sewer issues are also messy and very unpleasant.
Often plumbing apprentices split their time between a job site and school. Schooling takes up a few hours a week, and then the apprenticeship is a full thirty to forty hours a week. This leads to long and exhausting days.
A plumber who deals in residential issues often spends time in an office waiting for emergency situations to arise in between scheduled appointments. People often call plumbers to install dishwashers, new sinks, toilets, shower fixtures, and water purification systems. When pipes leak, plumbers receive calls to repair the cracked/damaged pipe or fixture that is causing the problem. Due to the emergency situations, many plumbers work much later than the average 9am to 5pm worker. Weekend work is also necessary due to emergency situations.
The Importance of a Job Well Done
Reputations can make or break a plumber. If a plumber botches up a job, word of mouth can ensure that that plumber never gets another job. Quality control is extremely important for those who want to earn a living plumbing. Passing the California Plumbing (C-36) Exam is not always enough to build a decent clientele.
The Plumbing Exam consists of seven sections that must be completed successfully in order to become a licensed plumber. The test is easy if a person studies their trade well. The seven parts are: Safety, Remodeling Plumbing Systems, Repairing Plumbing Systems, Installation, Rough Plumbing, Testing, and Plumbing Project Planning. The exam covers everything from how to design the system to installing it to testing it out to ensure it is fault free.
Memorization plays an important part in any plumber’s life. The State of California requires all new constructions and plumbing projects meet the state’s strict building codes. A plumber who has to refer to the codes in a book regularly will waste valuable time on the job site. It is important to have the codes memorized in advance. As codes change, the plumber must keep up with the changes.
Plumbing is a profitable career that offers the opportunity to become self-employed. Many people dream of being their own boss, and plumbers can easily make that happen. With a proper education and apprenticeship, a student interested in plumbing can become a licensed, self-employed plumber within five years time. The challenges are there, but the knowledge is certainly worthwhile. The world will never stop needing plumbers!
If you are intersted in becoming a plumber, check out our list of schools in California that offer plumbing programs.
Surgical technologists act as surgeon assistants during operations and surgical procedures. Qualified surgical technologists are in high demand and the pay scales are in the $35,000 range. Surgical technologists can work in a doctor’s office, dental, or hospital setting and the salaries vary depending on the field entered. In general, surgical technologists in dental settings tend to earn the highest incomes while hospital surgical technologists earn the lowest incomes.
Salaries vary due to the different tools used during medical and dental procedures. It is a surgical technologist’s responsibility to quickly locate and hand surgeons the proper tools while also handling sterilization of the tools and room following a surgical procedure. There are many duties that a surgical technologist must perform, they include:
- Preparing trays with the necessary tools needed for the surgical procedure before hand
- Assembling necessary equipment following safety procedures
- Ensure surgical equipment is functioning correctly
- Preparing the patient for surgery, including sterilizing the area where the procedure will be performed, shaving the incision site if necessary, and cleansing the incision site with a disinfecting solution
- Help the surgeon and medical/dental team get into their gowns, gloves, and other sterile clothing
- Handing surgical instruments to the doctor or dentist during the dental procedure
- Apply suctioning when required
- Keep track of patient’s vital signs during the procedure
- Monitoring the patient for signs of pain or need for more anesthesia
- Ensure the equipment, including sponges, are all back on the tray before the incision site is closed
- Some surgical technologists also bring the patient to the recovery room and monitor their recovery
- Pick up all tools used in the surgery, and wash and sterilize them for the next time
- Remove all sheets, pads, and other protective material used on the tables and chairs during the surgical procedure
- Set up the surgery area for the next procedure
Surgical technologists work with many patients on a daily basis and can become exposed to communicable diseases from colds to the flu to hepatitis. Smells of disinfectants can be troublesome, so those with allergies to strong cleaners may find the job to be intolerable. Surgical technologists work in bright lights and in a temperature controlled climate, so these situations are to be expected. Finally, some surgical technologists work far more than 40 hours per week. Emergencies and night time procedures are common, so one must have a very flexible schedule and be available weekends, nights, and holidays.
All surgical technologists must complete an accredited program before they can start working as a surgical technologist. It is important for someone entering into this field that they understand they must have strong memorization skills, capable of viewing blood and other bodily fluids, remain alert and often predict the doctor or dentist’s next move, be able to stand for long periods of time, and enjoy working under the close supervision of others. Surgical technologists must pass the CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) certification exam before taking a job as a surgical technologist. The certification must be renewed every four years and requires continuing education and reexamination.
Before one can take the CAAHEP exam, they must complete a Surgical Technologist Certificate or Associate Degree program. Higher pay scales are given to those who take the full two-year Associate program, but the job can be attained after the year long Certificate program. Before one can qualify for any of these programs, they must usually successfully pass a course in Body Systems for Health Professionals, Medical Terminology, and Pharmacology. Other courses that are required include:
- Anatomy
- Clinical Practices
- Patient Care
- Surgery Procedures
- Surgery Specialties
- Surgery Technology
On top of this, college settings require all students who are interested in the field of surgical technology to have all immunizations, including Hepatitis, up to date. They also require students to be able to lift and carry 50 pounds and be able to maneuver 100 pounds. They must be able to squat, bend, and kneel, have steady hands, speak fluent English, have good eyesight and hearing, be able to stand for long periods of time, be able to see colors (no colorblindness), be capable of staying calm in high stress situations, remain organized, work well with others, follow orders precisely, and be able to work quickly without error.
Those who enjoy working with people, can think quickly, make few errors, and enjoy helping others will find that working as a surgical technologist is a rewarding career. It does require one or two years of college before starting a career, but this is far less required schooling and job availability is strong. Anyone with an interest in surgery or anatomy who do not want to invest many years in medical school will find surgical technology to be an excellent option.
View a our Medical Training programs page to view a list of surgical technology programs in California.
If there are businesses in California that do not use computers, they are few and far between. In businesses and homes, people rely on their computer for research, record keeping, email, and many other important tasks. Without a working computer, people can go through serious withdrawal symptoms and they may find it hard to function entirely. Computer repair specialists are necessary to maintain and repair computer systems.
While some computer repair specialists learn through an apprenticeship, it is often best to complete a vocational program or college program to gain a degree or certificate in computer repairs. The schooling can be tough, and it is definitely geared towards those who like working with their hands and don’t mind assembling items.
What to Expect when Working as a Computer Repair Specialist
Computer repair specialists often set their own hours and own their own businesses. They can work within a larger corporation, but with the high demand for computer repairs, it can be just as easy to set up a home office and work privately. Business is always steady, but workloads can fluctuate, so proper scheduling is necessary in order to keep busy.
Within a corporate setting, computer repair specialists maintain, upgrade, and repair the computers used throughout a business. Updates must often be scheduled for after hours, so working late into the night is common. Troubleshooting is important and must be done quickly in order to keep a business operational and making a profit. Computer repair specialists often spend time helping workers navigate through computer programs and fixing user errors. Phone support is used to fix smaller problems without having to go to the office where the computer is located. Computer repair specialists must be able to give clear instructions over the phone. Patience is required, especially given the fact that many people are less knowledgeable with the interiors of a computer.
From a home setting, computer repair specialists will often drive to a person’s home and fix the computer as needed. If the computer needs major repairs, computer repair specialists will take the computer home, take it apart, and replace broken parts such as hard drives, fans, and modems. Thorough knowledge of the manner in which a computer is built is required, therefore a computer repair degree is required.
A Day in the Life of a Computer Repair Specialist
In general, computer repair specialists spend their days:
- Setting up or fixing networks
- Installing virus, spyware, and spam software
- Scanning for viruses, spyware, and spam and removing any troublesome issues
- Installing firewalls
- Installing software
- Troubleshooting and repairing computer problems
- Reformatting hard drives
- Helping get computer systems set up in a home or office
- Setting up wireless modems
- Helping recover lost data
- Backing up data
- Computer Upgrades
- Installing computer components such as printers and scanners
- Setting up new computers and removing unnecessary or unwanted software
- Tweaking settings for improved computer speeds and performance
On a typical day, a computer repair specialist working from home will often start out working on a computer in his or her home repair shop. If an emergency call comes in, the computer repair specialist will travel to the company or home that calls up and troubleshoot the computer’s problem. This can take a few hours to travel, troubleshoot, and then explain the problem and necessary fix. With a business, it is important to get their computerized system up and running quickly due to the costly loss of business.
Computer repair specialists will also take appointments for routine maintenance or upgrades on a daily basis, so emergency situations must be worked around these regular appointments. Routine appointments may require software upgrades, installations of a new printer to be shared by a number of office workers or private users, or routine cleanings of fans and disk drives.
In California, computers are also used in thousands of classrooms. School districts often hire computer repair specialists to work within the school setting working to upgrade outdated computer systems, install new computers, and solve problems that may occur in both classroom and office computers. School settings often require a lot of patience because it is easy for children to push a wrong button causing frozen screens and more. Additionally, many classroom computers are used for internet research making it easy for some students to end up in sites where spyware and viruses are prevalent.
Computer repair specialists have one of the most important jobs in the world. Without them, computers would become outdated, fail to run properly and cost businesses incredible amounts of money in replacing. The pay is excellent, and work flow is steady. Due to the freedom of either working for a company or working as an entrepreneur, computer repair is a field that is growing steadily and drawing more and more people in.
View a list of schools in California that provide computer repair or support programs.
Before anyone can enjoy their first day as an accountant, a college degree must be achieved. To receive a Bachelor’s degree, a number of courses must be completed successfully. In California, this list includes:
- Accounting, both Financial and Managerial
- American Culture
- Business and IT Environments
- Business Communications
- Business Finance
- Business Operations
- Business Writing
- Calculus
- Cultural Anthropology
- Economics
- Exports-Imports Financing
- Geography
- Information Systems and Applications
- Macroeconomics
- Management
- Marketing
- Microeconomics
- Politics
- Probabilities and Statistics
- Psychology
- Securities
- Sociology
- Writing
The coursework is generally hard for the majority of students, so people should not expect to breeze through college easily. In addition, before receiving the Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, all California students must pass the EWP (Examination in Writing Proficiency) with at least a 71%. Accountants constantly use basic math procedures to record debits and credits. Those who detest math will find that a career in accounting can be very tedious.
Getting Started
Proper college schooling only lands a person a degree. Many employers will not hire those with accounting degrees that have no actual work experience. It can be extremely tough to find a high-paying job right off the bat. An apprenticeship in college can help provide on-the-job training that can help land a good job after graduation. Other men and women holding a degree in accounting should expect to start on the lower-rung of a corporate ladder and work their way up. Starting salaries for an accountant average $40,000 in California. After a number years in the job, these salaries can rise to a little over $100,000. It is, however, rather difficult to afford suitable housing in many Californian cities on $40,000 a year. Any person interested in this career must learn to scrimp while starting out!
Specializing
Many accountants hold specialties in certain industries. For example, a construction accountant will have a general knowledge of construction terminology, the method in which construction projects go together, and general prices for equipment and supplies. General Ledger Accountants maintain the ledgers for a company. Tax accountants deal strictly with personal or business taxes. The same is true for the travel industry, entertainment, banking, and major corporations.
Accountants are responsible for keeping that specific company’s financial records current. Usually, companies hire an accountant and at least one helper. The accountant’s duties include:
- Recording and maintaining all general ledger (records) of debits and credits (expenses and revenue.)
- Budgeting money for supplies, salaries, and other necessary expenses, including emergencies, that are necessary to a business’s operations.
- Handling all month end and year end financial reports.
- Review and approve all financial transactions to ensure they are legal.
- Hire and manage accounting staff.
- Selecting and operating accounting software.
- Keep financial information securely stored away and keep financial information private and out of conversations.
In addition, many companies require their accountants to help with weekly or bi-weekly payrolls, year end taxes, and often researching finance regulations and other financial issues is involved.
For those who are lucky enough, a travel agency accountant is very enjoyable and beneficial because of the job perks. Many accountants in a travel setting work the average 9 to 5 hours Monday through Friday and are eligible for travel discounts, including hotels, airfare, package vacations, and cruises, which makes it a highly sought after specialty. Take a look at the day in the life of an accountant for a travel agency:
Every Monday, an accountant in this type of business must gather up the previous week’s ticket sales and perform the ARC (Airline Recording Corporation) reports. This report tallies up all of the airline ticket sales and then the travel agency’s commissions, if any are involved, are reduced from the amount the travel agency then sends out to the ARC. While a travel agency is paid for the full ticket price for any airline ticket, only a portion of that money is legally theirs. If an airline offers a 5% commission on a ticket that cost $500, the travel agency only gets to keep $25 of that money. The rest is sent to the ARC to be distributed to the airlines.
During the rest of the week, accountants pay the bills, budget for upcoming expenses like rent, business supplies, and employee salaries. Many accountants in travel agencies also handle weekly payroll, business taxes, insurance plans, and customer refunds if necessary.
Accounting is an extremely rewarding career, though it does require a solid, four-year education. Those seeking the highest pay scale will need to finish their college degree and then study for the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam. This difficult and lengthy exam covers all aspects of accounting including legal issues, the basics, and more. The four exam sections take a total of fourteen hours and include Auditing & Attestation, Business Environment & Concepts, Financial Accounting and Reporting, and Regulations. Many states are starting to look into making the CPA exam a mandatory step in becoming an accountant, so current uncertified accountants may want to look into the CPA soon.
By gaining an Associates or Bachelor’s degree in business administration, a number of careers are available. For most, the biggest problem is narrowing the field while in college. It is best to specialize in one area (Accounting, Communications, Finance, Information Systems, Health Services, Hospitality, Human Resources, Management, Sales/Marketing, and Small Business) because many careers look for those with specialized skills. Job duties and salaries vary greatly.
Specializing in Accounting
One who has a degree in Business Administration with accounting as a specialty can then go on to gain jobs working alongside an accountant, work as a bookkeeper for a small company, or work as a tax consultant. Those interested in this specialty should enjoy working with calculators, financial software such as Quickbooks, and have an eye for detail. One mistaken figure can throw financial records off.
Specializing in Communications
A Business Administration degree with a specialty in Communications is great for those interested in becoming a technical writer. This is a growing field as more companies are in need of men and women who can write thorough, easy to follow computer manuals, training materials, instruction guides, and more. Often these people must have high typing speeds, an excellent grasp of grammar, and enjoy writing detailed material. Work days include plenty of time spent typing up and editing these guides, but working from home is an intriguing option.
Specializing in Finance
Today’s world seems to revolve fully around money. A Business Administration degree concentrating on finance allows a man or woman to work in banking, financial firms, and other related businesses. Again, a person interested in this field must enjoy working with numbers and must have an eye for detail. Pay in this field is often higher than in other fields due to the natures of the businesses.
Specializing in Information Systems
Information Systems are necessary in any business because they are the programs that keep customer records, sales records, and more. Those with this specialty will work with computers regularly maintaining computer records and software. Due to the wide range of businesses out there, those with this degree can work for virtually any computer helping with data entry, reports, and the programs themselves.
Specializing in Insurance
Health insurance companies are growing in leaps and bounds and there is a strong need for conscientious workers who can process medical and dental claims, handle patient records while following the strict privacy laws, and also help run a medical or dental office. Those whose degree focuses on Health Services often find high paying jobs quickly and easily because of the high demand. Job duties may include checking in patients, coding medical forms following a patient’s visit, or handling insurance claims to ensure the doctor is paid.
Specializing in Hospitality
Working in a hotel or resort is a dream job to many. By gaining a Business Administration degree with a focus in hospitality, a student is prepared to run the front desk in a hotel, restaurant, or other travel or entertainment venues. Often a job of this nature comes with a discount that makes the job highly desirable. Pay scales are not as high in this field, but the perks make up for it!
Specializing in Human Resources
Those interested in handling payroll, employee benefits, hiring/firing, and labor relations should go for a degree that focuses on Human Resources. Job duties often include running a front office, handling payroll, handing out paychecks, scheduling vacations, interviewing potential employees, managing and researching job benefits, and handling exit interviews for exiting employees.
Specializing in Management
A degree with management as a specialty is necessary for anyone interested in managing a business or department. This can be a rather stressful job as many loathe their boss because it is that person who assigns work. Pay scales are higher though and with good management skills, it is easy to gain friends with your employees.
Specializing in Marketing
Sales and Marketing is a perfect career for the outgoing men and women who want to spend long hours talking to potential customers. Sales can be high pressure and often salaries are based on commissions, so to make a lot of money, one must succeed at selling. Public relations is another option for those with degrees in marketing. Public Speaking skills are important, but one spends plenty of time meeting with other men and women, going out on business lunches, or dinners that the company pays for making it an intriguing career.
Specializing in Business
Finally, if you have every dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur, a Business Administration degree with a focus in Small Business is the best way to go. This degree shapes people to eventually own and run their own business. Hours can be very long while starting out, and often there are money struggles while building the business, but once a business is successful, the owner can set his or her own hours, work from home when desired, and have the freedom of being his or her own boss.
Find a program in business administration in California.
Within the field of Aviation, there are a number of careers available. Different jobs entail different education paths, so it is important to decide which career appeals most before entering technical training or college. The list of jobs is wide:
- Aerospace Engineers
- Aircraft Assembly
- Aircraft Engine Inspectors
- Aircraft Mechanic
- Airline Customer Service
- Airplane Designers
- Air Traffic Control
- Aviation Administration
- Baggage Handlers
- Emergency Crew
- Flight Attendants
- Helicopter Mechanics
- Pilots
- Runway Crew
- Security Officers
Getting the Education You Need for a Career in the Aviation Field
Schooling is required for some aviation careers, but others require little more than on-the-job training and a high school diploma. Each job requires different tasks. For example, a flight attendant goes through a flight attendant training program and then must be willing to fly from area to area regularly. Flight attendants spend more time on a plane than in their own home or apartment. They handle waiter/waitressing tasks, in-flight safety instructions, customer complaints, passenger control, check-in, and more. An airline customer service representative, on the other hand, usually receives on the job training and is required to make reservations, handle telephone or live complaints or questions, check-in baggage, and other duties related to getting a passenger onto a plane.
One of the most rewarding careers within the aviation field, however, is that of an airframe and powerplant technician. Even better, jobs in this field are quite plentiful.
Working as an Airframe and Powerplant Technician
Throughout the world, airframe and powerplant technicians inspect planes before flights ensuring that the plane is in top condition and working properly. This makes the airframe and powerplant technician one of the more important jobs in the field of aviation.
To prevent airline crashes, all airlines must be thoroughly inspected before the flight. Everything from landing gear to engines to the mechanical controls are checked to ensure they are in prime condition and will not fail during a flight. While the occasional accident does occur, airframe and powerplant technicians are the best change to prevent catastrophes and quickly fix problems so that flights are not delayed for incredible amounts of time.
To become an airframe and powerplant technician, a number of courses are required.
- Aircraft or Helicopter Theory and Operations – Understanding how aircraft or helicopter works
- Airframe and Powerplant Fuel Systems – Proper techniques used when fueling aircraft and how to inspect the fueling system and fuel lines
- Airframe Assembly
- Airplane Maintenance – Step by step instruction in handling an in – depth inspection of a plane prior to a start
- Avionic Circuits – Learning how an avionic circuit board is assembled
- Avionic Regulations – Learning all the rules and regulations involved in avionics that pilots and flight crews must follow, includes laws regarding pre – flight maintenance and inspections
- Communication Systems – Inspecting and repairing, if necessary, the communication system on an airplane or helicopter
- Engine Repairs – Simple and extensive repairs to an airplane or helicopter’s engine system. Usually involves learning how to build an engine from scratch
- Environmental Controls – Learn how to prevent engine ice – ups or other environmental issues that can cause engine failure
- Gas Turbine Engines – Learn how to repair and inspect gas turbine engines
- General Maintenance – How to perform routine oil changes and routine engine maintenance
- Helicopter Maintenance – Specialized maintenance procedures that are mandatory in helicopters
- Hydraulics and Landing Gears – Learn how to inspect the airplane or helicopter’s hydraulic system and the landing gears
- Ignition Systems – Steps for inspecting an airplane or helicopter’s ignition system
- Instrument Panel – Understanding the function of all aircraft instrument panels including why they are used and how to troubleshoot problems with their functioning
- Lubricating Systems – Maintenance and inspection, including repairing, the airplane or helicopter’s lubrication system
- Materials, Processes, and Welding – How to make general repairs to the airplane’s form, includes how to weld metal, clean metal, and check all hardware for rust and corrosion
- Navigation Systems – Inspect and repair the airplane or helicopter’s navigation system
- Pneumatics – Inspect, assemble, and repair the pneumatics system
- Principles of Electricity – Understanding all circuits, including series – parallel circuits, parallel circuits, AC/DC circuits, and the Ohms laws
- Propellers – Learn how to inspect, repair, assemble, and disassemble the propellers
- Reading Blueprints – How to read for design an engine’s blueprint
- Record Keeping – How to maintain proper records for all airplane or helicopter inspections
- Structural Repairs – Use sheet metal and welding skills to repair damage to the airplane or helicopter’s exterior and interior
- Weight and Balance – Inspecting aircraft for safe loads to prevent an overweight plane or helicopter from taking off
- Working with Sheet Metal – Principles to reforming a plane or helicopter’s exterior using sheet metal for repairs
Following this intensive program, students are expected to prepare for and then successfully pass the GROL exam (FCC’s General Radiotelephone Operations License) before one can take on work as an airframe and powerplant technician. Due to the extreme importance in doing a job correctly, it is important for all aviation airframe and powerplant technicians to be licensed and well trained.
Are you interested in a career in aviation? Take a look at our list of schools in California offering avaiation programs.
August 2008
A Q&A session with Michelle, a medical assistant, who works at a local hospital in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Michelle has worked as a CNA for 3 years and has worked as a medical assistant for 5 years.
Q: What type of education or training did you need in order to become a medical assistant?
A: I first became a CNA through the Certified Nursing Assistant class at Lakeshore Technical in Cleveland, Wisconsin. I learned about taking care of people as well as how to perform my duties. I did this for three years before the hospital needed medical assistants. I applied for the class at Lakeshore Technical. The class was the next step up for me. I plan to continue my education and become a nurse.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: I like being able to work as both a CNA and a medical assistant. It gives me more flexibility. I am scheduled for medical assistant three days a week and as a CNA two days a week. I like the freedom to work anywhere in the hospital or at other places such as nursing homes and retirement homes.
Q: What do you dislike most about your job?
A: The one thing I dislike is that we are always short-handed it seems. They need more healthcare workers. I work long hours sometimes. It does take its toll on you mentally and physically.
Q: How would you describe your typical day on the job?
A: A typical day starts at 5 AM. I pass out medications to my patients. This usually takes me two hours to do. Then I do blood pressure checks and see how the patients are doing. If they need something, I get it for them. I answer call buttons and help with moving patients to the bathroom when the CNAs are running short. By the time this is all done, it is time to go home. The day goes by fast.
Q: What is your next career step?
A: I want to start my classes in the fall to become a registered nurse. It will take me some time, but I plan to work full time and continue my education. The only time I will have to take leave from work is when I do my clinicals, unless I can do them at my hospital. The hospital pays for the continuing education, so it is well worth it for me.
Q: What previous job history prepared you for your job?
A: My CNA training helped me prepare for the medical assistant job. You do not need previous job history to become a medical assistant but it helps. It was my motivation to further my career.
Q: What kind of traits does a person need to have in order to be successful at this job?
A: You need dedication. The medical field can be demanding and leaves little time for family. You need to be able to separate yourself from your patients. Being polite and friendly is needed, but you cannot let yourself get emotionally involved. You need to be strong. Many people are demanding so having a strong personality that can take things with a grain of salt is needed.
Q: Would you recommend this job to someone else? Why or why not?
A: I would recommend this job to someone that wants to make a difference. If the person is emotional, this is not the job for them. You have to accept death almost every day. That can burn you out. You need to find a place inside of you that you can go to get away from your job sometimes.
Take a look at a list of medical assisting programs in California to take the next step towards becoming a medical assistant.
September 2008
A Q&A session with a Darcy K, the owner of DarcyK Designs, which is an interior design company located in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Q: Can you tell us who you are currently employed with?
A: DarcyK Designs. We are located in Las Vegas, and our focus is on interior design for nightclubs and ultra clubs located throughout Vegas.
Q: What is the most requested service you provide?
A: Design and implementation. Creating proposals and design drawings takes up an incredible amount of an interior designer’s time if you didn’t know it. Club owners expect to have our vision on display prior to an approval of the features. Once our design is accepted, making the vision a reality for our client is what we do best. Working in Las Vegas as an interior designer is demanding work. The expectations are high. Club owners are looking to offer tourists the best. Successful nightclubs have a combination of amenities that make them successful, and environment is one. Our job is to give the club owner the best opportunity to become, or stay, successful.
Q: How long has DarcyK designs been working in Las Vegas?
A: 4 Years. It’s been a wonderful experience after putting in the time to train and travel. To have come as far as I have comes with a great sense of satisfaction. I took everything I learned and put it together with a great place to work and live. The industry here gives me an opportunity to do what I love to do, and do it a lot.
Q: Can you tell us a little about your training and school experience?
A: I grew up in Burlington, Vermont. The opportunity to travel to many different locations around the world was available to me, and the more I traveled, the more I began to notice the differences in taste and culture. I was attracted to the different designs and features of the places I visited. I graduated from the well-known FIDER design program at Virginia Tech, and after my training at the FIDER school, I attended the American International University in London studying hospitality design, European architecture, and photography.
Q: What’s your favorite part about being an interior designer?
A: I consider myself pretty lucky. This was a dream that became reality after much hard work and being able to fulfill a dream is what most of us hope to do, isn’t it? Our clients are our friends. Through the entire process, our attention to what the client wants and needs brings us closer to our clients than other business relationships. Our knowledge of design must work with the clients’ vision. By the time the project is finished, the relationship between designer, owner, and design is complete. We are regularly invited back to do more work for our friends who love what we do for them.
Q: What is the worst part?
A: As far as what I don’t like about my job, I must say that sometimes our vendor relationships could be better. There are too many businesses that are willing to take advantage of others. It is always an upsetting feature of working with other businesses to keep your business working. When problems arise, it’s been our best policy to only accept what responsibility is ours and move on. If a vendor doesn’t perform as expected, we stay prepared to handle any situation that may arise. That’s the worst part: underperformers.
Q: Tell us about an average day at DarcyK Designs.
A: Our office hours are standard 9 to 5. Office hours are different than working hours though. We hope to begin working before and end our day after those hours, but on an average day I would say the day starts about 8:30AM. I’ll go to the studio to go over the calls and reply to customers that came in from the previous day. I will make any appointments I have scheduled. I like to schedule two sets of appointments when necessary so I’ll be at an appointment around 10:30. So, between the time I get to my desk and the time to leave at 10:00, I’ll work on any project set-ups that need attention. I’ll make notes and adjustments that need to be made to the mockup and my staff will complete the idea. Meeting with clients usually means I have my display with the proposal design. It may be just a walk-through, or it may be a status update, the point is, appointment time means business. The same thing will happen in the afternoon at 1:30, and after the appointments, I visit jobsites or return to the studio to finish new work. Add-in the time spent talking to new clients, old clients, potential clients takes up the what the vendors don’t take, and I should get home around 7:00PM.
Q: What are your future career goals?
A: I would want to create a business profile that others want to emulate. I wouldn’t mind having DarcyK Design franchises dotted around the world. Why not? Stopping here just means I’ve concluded my dreams. It may be franchises; it may be a different kind of art or architecture. Anything is possible.
Q: Did your previous work history have anything to do with your current business position?
A: If you consider my schooling to be previous work history then yes. I became an interior designer and built up my own position because of my education and life experiences. I did not work with other designers, but I learned from them when I had the chance.
Q: As an interior designer, what kind of benefits do you receive from the work place?
A: Our company offers all our employees the basic health and vacation benefits. As founder, I retain my own set of health and vacation options, as well as retain revenue profits in the form of my salary. I think the biggest benefit from my job is freedom to run my business and work the way I see fit. That’s the biggest benefit.
Q: Speaking of your salary, would you mind telling a little about the money you make?
A: Our company makes a percentage of the cost build that ranges from 8-20%. The business expenses and liabilities the company has must all be met before a salary is retained by me. On average, I will earn $60,000 after everything is said done.
Q: What makes someone good at this profession?
A: The ability to develop creative designs drawn from the knowledge of various measures of interior design. A commitment to the client and a love for design must be present at all times. What makes someone good at anything is that they enjoy what they do, so what makes someone want to be a good interior designer is a desire to develop creative design implementation.
Q: Would you recommend this career path to others?
A: Yes, interior design is something that I love. Even when I discussed some of the things I do not like about the business, it pales in comparison to the enjoyment I get from my work. My clients are friends, I love the work, I enjoy taking something that is rough and working it out until it shines. I believe that interior design offers everyone the same ability and benefits. I would suggest that those who are interested in this business become well trained in some exacting procedures prior to attempting to do this as their job. Reputation is important in this business, and many unskilled designers have had short lived careers because of being poorly trained and unable to accomplish some of the basics that come with the business.
If you want to pursue an interior design career like Darcy K., start by viewing a list of interior design programs available in California.
October 4, 2005
A Q&A session with Barbara Kavalvs, an X-Ray Technician, who works at Scripps Hospital in Encinitas, CA. Barbara provides great insight into the career of an X-Ray Technician.
Q: Describe your average daily routine. What types of tasks are you expected to complete as part of your job?
A: To take x-rays of people that come into the ER. If they break a bone, we are there to x-ray. If there is a trauma (car accident, etc.) we are there immediately to take x-rays before the patient can be moved. We also take x-rays in the operating room (OR) while surgery is being performed. Mostly for orthopedics, when screws or plates need to be inserted to hold bones together. We also x-ray internal organs by injecting contrast materials that is radiopaque. This includes stomachs, intestines, colon, kidneys, uterus, fallopian tubes, etc. We use a method called fluoroscopy, which is a live x-ray, like a movie.
Q: What do you like the most about being an X-Ray Technician?
A: I enjoy helping people. I also enjoy how interesting the human body is.
Q: What do you dislike, if anything, about being an X-Ray Technician?
A: You are exhausted at the end of your shift. At times it is very stressful, especially if you work at a trauma center. The pace is extremely fast at hospitals.
Q: What is your work environment like?
A: My work environment is very busy and very stressful. You just learn how to work under these conditions. I work with great people and that makes all the difference.
Q: What is your work schedule like?
A: I work 8 hour shifts, but at places you can work 12 or 16 hour shifts. Grave yard shift if tough to stay awake, but some people love it. You can also take “call” overnight which means if they get busy they will call you to come in.
Q: Where did you get the training necessary for your job?
A: I took a 2 year college program and earned an AS degree in radiology. You must also complete so many clinical hours. You then must take a registry exam earning you an “RT” degree. This will allow you to be licensed in the state. The program is difficult and involves a lot of math, physics and anatomy. It is a very interesting field, but right now there is a waiting list at some colleges.
Q: Would you recommend your job as an X-Ray Technician to another person?
A: I love my job and yes, I would recommend it to anyone who wants to make a difference. My daughter just joined the program as well.
Q: What is the next step in your career?
A: I will be staying as an x-ray technician for the foreseeable time being.
View a list of schools in California offering x-ray programs.
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