The Aircraft Electronics Association is an important trade organization for both avionics shops and aircraft owners, and as the 69th annual AEA trade show and convention opened in Dallas today, a major focus was on training avionics techs. As the avionics market struggles with a shortage of qualified technicians and the challenge of training new ones, AEA recently developed the Certified Aircraft Electronics Technician (CAET) credential. In the last 12 months, the CAET has quickly become the industry standard that validates the knowledge of avionics techs who install and troubleshoot modern, complex systems.
The CAET is a knowledge-based certification for entry-level technicians and requires passing a written exam taken online through the Unmanned Safety Institute (USI). The credential is the foundation for a series of stackable certifications for avionics technicians. “When a technician holds this second-level certification, employers know they can work independently. The CAET-Advanced positions avionics professionals for lead technician roles, and it shows employers you’ve been evaluated and signed off on real systems,” AEA President and CEO Mike Adamson said in his opening remarks as the packed convention got underway.
Taking the training one step forward, the CAET-Advanced requires technicians to demonstrate competency through a three-part assessment: a hands-on practical qualification, a written exam, and an oral board. The certification covers more than 60 practical tasks across eight system categories, from wire harness fabrication to flight management systems. It aligns with Level 2 of the ASTM standard for aircraft electronics technicians and is built for technicians who are actively working in Part 145 repair stations, enrolled in apprenticeship programs, or transitioning from military avionics roles. The third level of the CAET’s stackable certification—the CAET-Pro—will be available in 2027 and is designed for experienced technicians and avionics managers. It assesses skills needed to successfully lead a team of professionals.
Quint DeGroot, owner of Spencer Avionics, was recognized as the 2026 AEA member of the year for his decades of service to the aviation industry and his commitment to supporting small aviation businesses. Aircraft audio system pioneer PS Engineering was recognized for the company’s decades of innovation and service in aircraft communications.
This year’s keynote speaker was aerobatic ace Mike Goulian, who dazzled showgoers with footage and commentary of his air racing career. Goulian operates a Cirrus training and maintenance shop (Mike Goulian Aviation) outside of Boston. The AEA convention is generally the first place manufacturers unveil new products to avionics shops—often well in advance of introducing them to end users. AvBrief is on hand at the convention and will be providing exclusive coverage of products and services.
