Diagnostic Medical Sonographers

What Diagnostic Medical Sonographers Do

Echoes are sent to the ultrasound machine, which processes them and displays them as images.

Diagnostic medical sonographers use special imaging equipment that directs sound waves into a patient’s body (in a procedure commonly known as an ultrasound, sonogram, or echo cardiogram) to assess and diagnose various medical conditions.

Duties

Diagnostic medical sonographers typically do the following:

• Prepare patients for procedures by taking a patient’s history and answering any questions about the procedure
• Prepare and maintain imaging equipment
• Apply a gel to aid the sound waves’ ability to show the inside of the body
• Operate equipment to get diagnostic images of areas in the patient’s body
• Analyze the images to check for quality and adequate coverage of the area needed for diagnosis
• Recognize the difference between normal and abnormal images
• Analyze images to provide preliminary findings for physicians
• Record findings and keep track of patients’ records

Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. The sonographer presses an instrument called an ultrasound transducer to the parts of the patient’s body that are being examined. The transducer emits pulses of sound that bounce back, causing echoes. The echoes are then sent to the ultrasound machine, which processes them and displays them as images.

Diagnostic medical sonographers specialize in different parts of the body. The following are examples of specific types of sonographers:

Abdominal sonographers specialize in imaging a patient’s abdominal cavity and nearby organs, such as the kidney, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, or spleen.

Breast sonographers specialize in imaging a patient’s breast tissues. Sonography aids mammography in the detection of breast cancer.  Breast sonography is also used to track tumors in breast cancer patients.

Musculoskeletal sonographers specialize in imaging muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints.

Neurosonographers specialize in imaging a patient’s nervous system, including the brain.

Obstetric and gynecologic sonographers specialize in imaging the female reproductive system. Many pregnant women receive ultrasounds to track the baby's growth and health.

Cardiovascular and vascular technologists use sonography to assist physicians in diagnosing problems with a patient’s heart, arteries and veins.

Work Environment

Diagnostic medical sonographers must understand how to operate complex machinery.

Diagnostic medical sonographers work in healthcare facilities such as  hospitals, physician’s offices , medical and diagnostic laboratories: 

·         Hospitals; state, local, and private

·         Offices of physicians

·         Medical and diagnostic laboratories

·         Outpatient care centers

Diagnostic medical sonographers do most of their work at diagnostic imaging machines in dimly lit rooms, but they may also perform procedures at patients' bedsides. Sonographers may be on their feet for long periods and may need to lift or turn patients who are disabled.

Work Schedules

Most diagnostic medical sonographers work full time. Because imaging is sometimes needed in emergencies, sonographers sometimes work evenings, weekends, or overnight.

How to Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic medical sonographers must work closely with patients.

Diagnostic medical sonographers need formal education, such as an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Many employers also require professional certification.

Education

Colleges and universities offer both associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs in sonography.. Employers prefer a degree or certificate from an accredited institute or hospital program. The accredited programs usually follow a specific course of study and include clinical training. These programs also include courses in medical terminology and interpreting sonographic images. Most programs are divided into the specialized fields that correspond to the relevant certification exams, such as abdominal sonography or breast sonography.

High school students who are interested in diagnostic medical sonography should take courses in anatomy, physiology, and mathematics.

Licenses and Certification

Most employers prefer to hire sonographers who have professional certification. A sonographer can get certification by graduating from an accredited program and passing an exam. Most exams relate to the specialty that the sonographer is most interested in—for example, an exam to be become certified in abdominal sonography. A few states require diagnostic medical sonographers to be licensed. Typically, professional certification is required for licensure; other requirements vary. Sonographers must take continuing education to keep their certification current.

Important Qualities

Detail oriented. Diagnostic medical sonographers must follow precise instructions to obtain the images needed to diagnose and treat the patient. They also must pay attention to the screen while scanning a patient's body because the cues that contrast healthy areas with unhealthy ones may be subtle.

Hand-eye coordination. To get quality images, diagnostic medical sonographers must be able to move equipment on the patient’s body in response to what they see on the screen.

Interpersonal skills. Diagnostic medical sonographers must work closely with patients. Sometimes patients are in extreme pain or mental stress, and the sonographer must get cooperation from the patient to create usable images.

Stamina. Diagnostic medical sonographers work on their feet for long periods and must be able to lift and move patients who need assistance.

Technical skills. Diagnostic medical sonographers must understand how to operate complex machinery and computerized instruments.

Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians

What Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians Do

An airplane mechanic repairs an engine. Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform scheduled maintenance on airplanes and helicopters. They also inspect airplanes and helicopters as required by their employer

Duties

Aircraft mechanics typically do the following:

•          Examine aircraft frames and parts for defects

•          Diagnose mechanical or electrical problems

•          Measure parts for wear, using precision instruments

•          Read maintenance manuals to identify methods of repair

•          Repair wings, brakes, electrical systems, and other aircraft components

•          Replace defective parts, using hand tools

•          Test aircraft parts with gauges and other diagnostic equipment

•          Inspect completed work to ensure that it meets performance standards

•          Keep records of maintenance and repair work

Avionics technicians typically do the following:

•          Test electronic instruments, using circuit testers, oscilloscopes, and voltmeters

•          Interpret flight test data to diagnose malfunctions and performance problems

•          Assemble components, such as electrical controls and junction boxes

•          Install instrument panels, using hand tools, power tools, and soldering irons

•          Repair or replace malfunctioning components

•          Keep records of maintenance and repair work

Today’s airplanes are highly complex machines that require reliable parts and service to fly safely. To keep an airplane in peak operating condition, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians do scheduled maintenance, make repairs, and complete inspections.

Some mechanics work on many different types of aircraft, such as jets, propeller-driven airplanes, and helicopters. Others specialize in one section of a particular type of aircraft, such as the engine, hydraulics, or electrical system of a jet. In small, independent repair shops, mechanics usually inspect and repair many different types of aircraft.

Most mechanics who work on civilian aircraft have the FAA’s Airframe and Power plant (A&P) certificate. Mechanics who have this certificate are authorized to work on any part of the aircraft, except electronic flight instruments. Maintaining a plane’s electronic flight instruments is the job of avionics technicians.

The following are types of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians:

Maintenance mechanics specialize in preventive maintenance and inspect aircraft. Every aircraft must be inspected regularly. The schedule for inspection may be based on hours flown, days since the last inspection, trips flown, or a combination of these factors.

Maintenance mechanics inspect aircraft engines, landing gear, instruments, brakes, air conditioning systems, and other parts. They use precision instruments to measure wear and replace worn out parts.

They inspect a plane’s exterior and repair metal sheets. They may use x rays and magnetic inspection equipment to check for cracks that can't be seen. They check for corrosion, distortion, and cracks in the aircraft's main body, wings, and tail.

In planes equipped with aircraft monitoring systems, mechanics can gather valuable diagnostic information from electronic consoles. After completing all repairs, mechanics must test the equipment to ensure that it works properly. Mechanics also must keep records of all maintenance that they do on an aircraft.

Repair mechanics specialize in repair work rather than inspection. They find and fix problems that pilots describe. For example, during a preflight check, a pilot may discover that the aircraft's fuel gauge is not working. Mechanics must figure out the problem and replace any defective electrical parts. They must work as fast as safety permits so that the aircraft can be put back into service quickly.

Avionic technicians repair and maintain a plane’s electronic systems, such as radio communications, radar systems, and flight instruments. As the use of automated technology increases, more time is spent maintaining a plane’s computer systems. Technicians are often needed to analyze and solve complex electronic problems.

Work Environment about this section

Airplane mechanics often have to climb, reach, and balance on a plane’s exterior. Aircraft mechanics and avionic technicians held about 142,300 jobs in 2010. Approximately 87 percent were mechanics and the rest were avionic technicians. 

Employment of aircraft mechanics and avionic technicians is concentrated in a small number of industries. The following industries employed the largest numbers of aircraft mechanics:

•   Scheduled air transportation 
• Support activities for air transportation (including airports)
• Aerospace products and parts manufacturing
• Federal government, excluding postal service
• Nonscheduled air transportation

The following industries employed the largest numbers of avionics technicians:

• Aerospace products and parts manufacturing
• Support activities for air transportation (including airports)
•   Federal government, excluding postal service
•   Scheduled air transportation
•    Navigational, measuring, electro medical, and control instruments manufacturing

Mechanics and technicians work in hangars, in repair stations, or on airfields. They must often meet strict deadlines to maintain flight schedules. At the same time, they must maintain safety standards, and doing both can cause stress.

Most mechanics and technicians work near major airports. Airline mechanics often work outside, on the airfield, while repair and corporate mechanics work in climate-controlled shops.

Injuries

Mechanics often lift heavy objects, handle dangerous chemicals, or operate large power tools. They frequently stand, lie, or kneel in awkward positions and work on scaffolds or ladders. Noise and vibrations are common when engines are being tested, so ear protection is necessary.

Because airline mechanics work outside, they must often endure hot and cold temperatures. Although their work is not inherently dangerous, aircraft mechanics and service technicians experience rates of injuries and illnesses that are higher than the average across all occupations.

Work Schedules

Mechanics and technicians usually work full time on shifts. Day shifts are usually reserved for mechanics with the most seniority.

How to Become an Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanic or Technician about this section 

Aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians must be certified according to the requirements of the local regulators.  Most mechanics learn their trade at an Approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School.

Education and Training

Coursework normally lasts 18 to 24 months and provides training with the tools and equipment used on the job.

Some of these schools award 2- or 4-year degrees in avionics, aviation technology, or aviation maintenance management. Increasingly, employers are looking more favorably on those with a bachelor’s degree.

Aircraft trade schools are placing more emphasis on technologies being used in new airplanes, such as turbine engines, composite materials, and aviation electronics. These technical advances require mechanics to have stronger backgrounds in composite materials and electronics.

Courses in mathematics, physics, chemical engineering, electronics, computer science, and mechanical drawing are helpful because they teach the principles involved in operating an airplane. Mechanics often need this knowledge to figure out what is wrong and how to fix it.

Courses that develop writing, communication, and management skills are important for mechanics who want to move into senior positions.

Certification

Local regulators requires that aircraft maintenance be done by certified mechanics or under the supervision of a supervised mechanic. Regulators  separate certifications for airframe mechanics and engine mechanics, but most airlines prefer to hire mechanics with a combined Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate.

To qualify, mechanics must be of the age specified by the regulator, be fluent in the language used locally, and have experience working on airframes and engines. However, completion of a program at an Aviation Maintenance Technician School approved by the local regulator can substitute for the experience requirement.

In addition to having experience or formal training, applicants must pass written, oral, and practical exams that demonstrate required skills. Candidates take the written tests on a computer at one of many designated testing facilities around the world. 

Advancement

As aircraft mechanics gain experience, they may advance to lead mechanic, lead inspector, or shop supervisor. Opportunities are best for those who have an aircraft inspector's authorization.

A bachelor’s degree has become increasingly important for career advancement, some mechanics continue their education.

Important Qualities

Agility.  Mechanics should be able to climb on airplanes, balance, and reach with no fear of heights.

Detail oriented. Mechanics should be able to adjust airplane parts to exact specifications. For example, mechanics often use precision tools to tighten wheel bolts to an exact tension.

Manual dexterity.  Mechanics should be able to precisely coordinate the movement of their fingers and hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble parts.

Technical skills.  Mechanics should be able to interpret engine noises, gauges, dials, and other technical instruments to determine whether a plane’s mechanical systems are working properly.

Troubleshooting skills. Mechanics should be able to diagnose complex problems and evaluate options to correct those problems.

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Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technician

What Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians Do

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians work to make sure that testing goes smoothly.

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians operate and maintain equipment used in testing new aircraft and spacecraft. Increasingly, their job requires programming and running computer simulations that test new designs. Their work is critical in preventing the failure of key parts of new aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles. They also help in quality assurance, testing, and operation of high-technology equipment used in producing aircraft and the systems that go into the aircraft.

Duties

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians typically do the following:

Make sure that test procedures go smoothly and safely

Operate and calibrate computer systems to comply with test requirements

Record data from test parts and assemblies

Meet with aerospace engineers to discuss details and implications of test procedures

Build and maintain test facilities for aircraft systems

Make and install parts and systems to be tested

Install instruments in aircraft and spacecraft              

Monitor and assure quality in producing systems that go into the aircraft           

New aircraft designs undergo years of testing before they are put into service because the failure of key parts during flight can be fatal. As part of the job, technicians often calibrate test equipment, such as wind tunnels, and determine causes of equipment malfunctions. They also may program and run computer simulations that test new designs.

Work Environment

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians install instruments in aircraft and spacecraft.

They usually work full time in laboratories, offices, and manufacturing or industrial plants. Many are exposed to hazards from equipment or from toxic materials, but incidents are rare as long as proper procedures are followed.

Industries that employed the largest numbers of aerospace engineering and operations technicians include:

Aerospace products and parts manufacturing
Navigational, measuring, electrometrical, and control instruments manufacturing
Architectural, engineering, and related services
Scheduled air transportation
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians are physically active in constructing the designs that aerospace engineers develop. Consequently, these technicians often work directly in manufacturing or industrial plants, where they help to assemble aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft away from an office environment.

How to Become an Aerospace Engineering or Operations Technician

Aerospace engineering and operations technicians work to prevent the failure of key parts of new aircraft, spacecraft, or missiles.

An associate’s degree is becoming increasingly desired by employers of aerospace engineering and operations technicians, although vocational programs that grant certificates or diplomas also offer good preparation. Some aerospace engineering and operations technicians work on projects that are related to national defense.

Education

High school students interested in becoming an aerospace engineering and operations technician should take classes in math, science, and, if available, drafting. Courses that help students develop skills working with their hands also are valuable, because these technicians build what aerospace engineers design. Employers also want these technicians to have a basic understanding of computers and programs to model or simulate products.

Vocational-technical schools include postsecondary public institutions that emphasize training needed by local employers. Students who complete these programs typically receive a diploma or certificate. 

Important Qualities

Communication skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians receive instructions from aerospace engineers. Consequently, they must be able to understand and follow the instructions, as well as communicate any problems to their supervisors.

Critical-thinking skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians must be able to help aerospace engineers figure out why a particular design does not work as planned. They must be able to evaluate system capabilities, identify problems, formulate the right question, and then to find the right answer.

Detail oriented. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians make and keep precise measurements needed by aerospace engineers. Consequently, they must make correct measurements and keep accurate records.

Interpersonal skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians must be able to take instruction and offer advice. An ability to work well with supervising engineers, other technicians, and mechanics is critical as technicians increasingly interact with people from other divisions, businesses, and governments.

Math skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians use the principals of mathematics for analysis, design, and troubleshooting in their work.

Technical skills. Aerospace engineering and operations technicians must be able to help aerospace engineers by building what the engineers design and helping with the processes and directions required to move from design to production. They must have both the hands-on skills of mechanics and some technical knowledge of aerospace engineering.

Certification

Although certification is not required, skills-based certification programs help students prepare for certification. Certification may be beneficial because it shows employers that a technician can carry out the theoretical designs of aerospace engineers.

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