This guide provides helpful information for those considering to enlist in the Navy Reserve as an Aviation Electrician’s Mate (AE) during Fiscal Year 2025.
A fighter jet isn’t just a machine—it’s a promise. A promise that when it takes off, it’ll land safely. That it’ll complete the mission. That the pilot inside has everything they need to navigate, communicate, and, if necessary, fight.
But none of that happens without power.
This is where Aviation Electrician’s Mates (AEs) come in. They make sure every electrical system on an aircraft works flawlessly, from the cockpit to the tail.
What an AE Does
An Aviation Electrician’s Mate (AE) is a Navy technician specializing in aircraft electrical systems, ensuring power generation, flight controls, and avionics operate flawlessly. They diagnose, repair, and maintain everything from navigation and communication systems to complex wiring, keeping military aircraft mission-ready.
An aircraft isn’t much use without power. AEs handle everything that keeps it running:
- Power Generation & Distribution – Batteries, generators, circuit breakers—AEs manage the flow of electricity.
- Flight Control Systems – Hydraulics, landing gear, engine power—many of these systems rely on electrical inputs.
- Avionics & Communication – Navigation, radar, encrypted comms—an aircraft is just a metal shell without these.
AEs don’t just troubleshoot problems. They prevent them. A pilot stepping into a cockpit never wonders whether the systems will work—that’s the AE’s job, and they take it seriously.
Why the AE Rating in the Navy Reserve?
This job isn’t just about keeping aircraft in the sky. It’s about mastering high-tech electrical systems that lead to serious opportunities.
What Makes It Worthwhile
- Elite Technical Training – Hands-on experience with some of the most advanced avionics and electrical systems in the world.
- Career Growth – Promotions, leadership roles, and certifications that open doors in and out of the military.
- Civilian Career Crossover – The FAA, aerospace companies, electrical engineering—AE skills translate directly into high-demand jobs.
Reservists vs. Active Duty
- Active Duty AEs serve full-time, attached to squadrons, constantly deploying and working on aircraft worldwide.
- Reservist AEs train part-time but stay ready. They step in when needed, balancing military service with civilian careers and bringing their Navy skills into the private sector.
The work is the same. The level of expertise is the same. One just wears the uniform full-time, while the other blends military service with a civilian career.
Both ensure that when an aircraft powers up, it stays that way.
Aviation Electrician’s Mate (AE) Rating in the Navy Reserve
What is an AE in the Navy Reserve?
The modern naval aircraft is a floating electrical grid, a nervous system of circuits and wires, each one carrying a current that keeps the machine alive.
The engines roar, but without the right electrical inputs, they don’t start. The wings move, but only if the control surfaces obey the pilot’s commands.
A failure in any of these systems isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s the difference between launching and staying grounded.
That’s where the Aviation Electrician’s Mate comes in. Their job is not just fixing what’s broken; it’s keeping aircraft in a state of constant readiness.
They diagnose electrical faults that haven’t even happened yet. They inspect, test, repair, and replace components that pilots don’t think twice about—because when an AE does their job right, the systems just work.
In the Navy Reserve, AEs do this part-time. They drill one weekend a month, train two weeks a year, and, when activated, step seamlessly into the fleet.
The same tools, the same aircraft, the same responsibilities—just a different rhythm.
Why the AE Rating is Critical to Naval Aviation
Consider this: a jet on the flight deck, ready to launch. The pilot runs through the preflight checklist. Everything looks good—until a single warning light flickers on.
It could be nothing. It could be everything. The flight is scrubbed. An AE is called.
Electrical issues aren’t always obvious. A radar that won’t scan. A fuel gauge reading empty when the tanks are full. A weapons system that won’t lock onto a target.
AEs operate in the space between routine maintenance and high-stakes problem-solving, ensuring that these malfunctions don’t happen at the wrong time.
Active Duty AEs work on whatever aircraft their squadron is assigned—F/A-18 Super Hornets, MH-60 Seahawks, EA-18G Growlers.
Reserve AEs do the same, but depending on their unit, they might also maintain support aircraft, logistics planes, or specialized platforms. The work doesn’t change, just the application.
And when they’re not in uniform? Some work in aviation, applying their skills to commercial aircraft. Others work in entirely different industries—electrical engineering, tech, automation—but bring those problem-solving skills back with them.
The Navy gets experienced technicians without having to train from scratch. The Reservists get to serve while building civilian careers. Everybody wins.
Career Path & Pay Grades
AE Rank Structure & Pay Grades (FY24-25)
The AE rating follows a structured rank progression, from apprentice-level Airman to Master Chief.
But in the Navy Reserve, promotions aren’t just about time served—they’re tied to qualifications, evaluations, and available billets.
A junior AE in a high-demand unit might move up quickly, while another could spend years waiting for an open spot at the next paygrade.
For Reservists, there are two distinct paths:
- Drilling Reservists (SELRES): Part-time service, one weekend a month, two weeks a year. Paid per drill period.
- Full-Time Support (FTS): Active-duty roles within the Reserve, providing continuity and training for part-time Sailors. Paid on the standard military salary scale.
Pay Grades for Drilling Reservists vs. FTS (FY24-25)
| Rank | Paygrade | Drill Pay (Monthly, Approx.) | Annual Training Pay (Approx.) | FTS Active Duty Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEAN | E-1 | $311 – $340 | $1,244 – $1,360 | $1,917 – $2,354/mo |
| AE3 | E-4 | $452 – $661 | $1,808 – $2,644 | $2,500 – $3,050/mo |
| AE2 | E-5 | $492 – $830 | $1,968 – $3,320 | $2,800 – $4,100/mo |
| AE1 | E-6 | $537 – $1,008 | $2,148 – $4,032 | $3,200 – $5,500/mo |
| AEC | E-7 | $589 – $1,269 | $2,356 – $5,076 | $3,900 – $6,900/mo |
| AECS | E-8 | $640 – $1,494 | $2,560 – $5,976 | $4,500 – $8,000/mo |
| AVCM | E-9 | $705 – $1,794 | $2,820 – $7,176 | $5,000 – $9,300/mo |
- Drill Pay: Based on four drill periods per month.
- Annual Training Pay: Two weeks of active-duty pay.
- FTS Active Duty Pay: Base salary, does not include allowances (BAH, BAS).
Promotion Timeline & Average Time-in-Rate (SELRES AE Career Path FY24-25)
Advancement in the Navy Reserve follows a mix of standard promotion cycles and billet availability. AEs who earn qualifications early, take on leadership roles, and perform well in evaluations move up faster.
| Rank | Time-in-Rate Before Promotion (Avg.) |
|---|---|
| AEAN (E-1) → AE3 (E-4) | ~9 months – 3.4 years |
| AE3 (E-4) → AE2 (E-5) | ~5.5 years |
| AE2 (E-5) → AE1 (E-6) | ~10.3 years |
| AE1 (E-6) → AEC (E-7) | ~15 years |
| AEC (E-7) → AECS (E-8) | ~16.4 years |
| AECS (E-8) → AVCM (E-9) | ~20.9 – 23.4 years |
Some AEs advance faster than average, especially if they take on critical leadership positions or fill high-demand billets.
Others remain at the same rank longer due to billet availability or performance evaluations.
Key Requirements for Advancement (Based on SELRES Promotion Guidelines)
Moving up in rank isn’t automatic—it’s a combination of time-in-rate, qualifications, and leadership. Here’s what matters most:
- Performance Evaluations: High marks in technical ability, leadership, and teamwork.
- Qualifications & NECs: Aviation Maintenance Technician (NEC 8342), Avionics Technician (NEC 8372), or other specialized NECs often factor into advancement eligibility.
- Leadership Roles: Leading Petty Officer (LPO), Work Center Supervisor, or other responsibilities that show readiness for the next rank.
- Billet Availability: Higher ranks require an open spot in the unit, meaning promotion can be competitive.
The AE career path in the Navy Reserve is a balance of skill, timing, and opportunity. Those who take initiative—earning qualifications early, volunteering for leadership roles—tend to move up the fastest.
Training Pipeline & NEC Specialties
Training & Schools for AEs
The journey to becoming an Aviation Electrician’s Mate in the Navy Reserve starts with training that builds a foundation in electrical theory, troubleshooting, and aircraft-specific systems.
Every AE, whether Active Duty or Reserve, follows the same core training pipeline before specializing in advanced systems.
Accession Training
- Recruit Training (Boot Camp) – 9 weeks
All enlisted Sailors begin at Great Lakes, Illinois, where they undergo physical training, military discipline, and basic naval instruction. Boot camp is less about technical skills and more about preparing recruits for life in the fleet. - AE “A” School – 14 weeks (Pensacola, FL)
This is where the real technical training begins. Located at NAS Pensacola, AE “A” School immerses students in electrical theory, circuit troubleshooting, and aircraft power systems. They learn to read wiring diagrams, diagnose faults, and repair components essential to safe flight operations. - Aircraft-Specific “C” School – Platform Dependent
After “A” School, some AEs continue on to “C” School, where they receive training tailored to the aircraft they will maintain. Not all AEs attend “C” School immediately—some are assigned to a squadron first and receive training later.
Technical Training & Certifications
Beyond “A” and “C” Schools, AEs can pursue specialized training through Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs). These certifications allow AEs to work on advanced aircraft systems, lead maintenance teams, or qualify for high-demand billets.
- Miniature/Microminiature Repair (2M MTR) Technician – NEC 730A
AEs with this qualification are trained in advanced circuit board repairs at the microscopic level. They can replace damaged components instead of swapping out entire systems, saving the Navy millions in maintenance costs. - Aviation Maintenance/Production Chief – NEC 770B
Senior AEs with this NEC oversee squadron maintenance operations, ensuring aircraft are mission-ready. This role involves logistics coordination, personnel management, and high-level troubleshooting. - Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technicians – NECs 700A, 701A, 702A
As UAVs become a larger part of naval operations, AEs with these NECs maintain drone electrical systems, navigation components, and power distribution networks. - F-35C Aircraft Systems Maintenance – NEC 780A
The F-35C represents the cutting edge of naval aviation, and AEs with this NEC specialize in maintaining its advanced electrical and avionics systems. This is one of the most sought-after NECs in the field. - C-130 / P-8A / MH-60R/S Electrical Systems Tech – NECs E14A, E17A, E24A
AEs with these NECs specialize in fleet support aircraft, including long-range reconnaissance (P-8A), heavy lift (C-130), and maritime helicopters (MH-60R/S). These platforms require expertise in electrical redundancy, mission-specific avionics, and power distribution systems.
The AE rating is more than just wiring and circuits—it’s a constantly evolving field where technical expertise can make or break a mission.
Whether working on frontline fighters, support aircraft, or UAVs, AEs who pursue advanced training set themselves apart in the Navy Reserve.
Work Environment & SEA/Shore Rotation
Where Do Navy Reserve AEs Work?
The Navy Reserve doesn’t just park Aviation Electrician’s Mates stateside and wait for emergencies.
They’re embedded in operational squadrons, deployed on aircraft carriers, and stationed at aviation maintenance hubs worldwide.
Their job is to ensure fleet aircraft are electrically sound—whether on a flight line in Virginia, the deck of a carrier in the Pacific, or a hangar in Bahrain.
SELRES AEs typically work in one of two environments:
- Operational Squadrons – These are the front-line aviation units, flying and maintaining aircraft that execute real-world missions. Reserve AEs integrate with these squadrons during drill weekends and Annual Training (AT), performing the same maintenance and troubleshooting as Active Duty Sailors.
- Fleet Readiness Centers (FRCs) – These high-level maintenance facilities handle deep repair and overhaul work. Unlike squadron AEs who focus on day-to-day upkeep, FRC AEs work on components pulled from multiple aircraft, troubleshooting down to the circuit level.
Assignments can take them to:
- Naval Air Stations (NASs): Key locations like NAS Jacksonville, NAS North Island, and NAS Whidbey Island serve as home bases for Reserve aviation units.
- Aircraft Carriers: When attached to a deploying squadron, SELRES AEs can find themselves at sea, supporting carrier-based aircraft.
- Aviation Facilities Overseas: Some SELRES billets exist at locations like Atsugi (Japan), Sigonella (Italy), and Bahrain, supporting forward-deployed aviation assets.
SELRES SEA/SHORE Rotation Expectations
Unlike Active Duty, Navy Reservists don’t follow a rigid SEA/SHORE rotation, but the expectation over a 20-year career is roughly 60% SEA / 40% SHORE.
This balance ensures AEs maintain operational readiness while also having stability between deployments.
Typical SHORE assignments include:
- Fleet Logistics Squadrons (VR): These units operate C-40 and C-130 transport aircraft, moving personnel and cargo worldwide. AEs in these squadrons focus on power distribution, avionics, and flight control systems unique to transport platforms.
- Patrol Squadrons (VP): Flying P-8A Poseidons, these units specialize in anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance. AEs ensure mission systems, radar, and electronic warfare suites remain operational.
- Helicopter Squadrons (HSM, HSC): Reserve AEs assigned to helicopter squadrons maintain MH-60R/S Seahawks used in anti-submarine and search-and-rescue missions.
Deployments with Active Duty Units
Reserve AEs aren’t just weekend mechanics. During Annual Training (AT), they integrate directly with Active Duty squadrons, often deploying for short-term assignments. Depending on their unit’s mission, this could mean:
- Embarking on an aircraft carrier for fleet exercises.
- Supporting humanitarian relief operations.
- Conducting forward-deployed maintenance at an overseas NAS.
For those who volunteer—or are mobilized—deployments can last longer, fully embedding them into Active Duty operations.
This flexibility makes SELRES AEs a critical extension of the fleet, ensuring naval aviation doesn’t slow down even when full-time personnel are stretched thin.
Enlistment & Retention Bonuses (FY25)
New Accession Training (NAT) Enlistment Bonus
For those stepping into the Navy Reserve as Aviation Electrician’s Mates (AEs) through the New Accession Training (NAT) program, the fiscal year 2025 offers tiered enlistment bonuses:
- Tier 1 (6-Year Contract): $20,000 total—$10,000 upfront upon completion of training, plus $2,000 annually over the next five years.
- Tier 2 (6-Year Contract): $15,000 total—$7,500 upfront, with $1,500 each year thereafter.
- Tier 3 (6-Year Contract): $10,000 total—$5,000 initially, followed by $1,000 annually.
These bonuses are structured to attract new talent into critical roles within the Reserve component.
Reserve Component Affiliation Bonus (For Prior Service AEs)
For seasoned AEs transitioning from Active Duty or other military branches into the Navy Reserve, the Reserve Component Affiliation Bonus provides financial incentives:
- Tier 1 (3-Year Contract): $20,000 total—$10,000 upfront upon affiliation, plus $5,000 annually for the remaining two years.
- Tier 2 (3-Year Contract): $15,000 total—$7,500 upfront, with $3,750 each subsequent year.
- Tier 3 (3-Year Contract): $10,000 total—$5,000 initially, followed by $2,500 annually.
These bonuses aim to retain experienced personnel, ensuring that their expertise continues to benefit naval aviation operations.
Incentives for Aviation Maintenance Specialties
Beyond general enlistment and affiliation bonuses, the Navy Reserve recognizes the importance of specialized skills within aviation maintenance.
To this end, additional incentives are offered for AEs who obtain critical Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs):
- Critical NEC Bonuses for SELRES AEs: AEs who achieve qualifications in high-demand areas—such as Miniature/Microminiature (2M) Repair Technician (NEC 730A) or F-35C Aircraft Systems Maintenance (NEC 780A)—may be eligible for additional bonuses. These incentives are designed to encourage Sailors to pursue advanced training, thereby enhancing the Reserve’s operational capabilities.
Tuition Assistance
The Navy Reserve is committed to the continuous professional development of its members. In support of this commitment, the following educational benefits are available:
- Tuition Assistance: Financial support is provided for Sailors pursuing higher education, covering tuition costs for courses that align with naval service and individual career advancement.
These educational incentives underscore the Navy Reserve’s dedication to fostering a well-trained, versatile force capable of meeting the evolving demands of naval aviation.
Civilian Career Opportunities & Industry Certifications
How AE Skills Translate to Civilian Jobs
An AE in the Navy Reserve doesn’t just gain experience fixing aircraft—they develop a highly transferable skill set that aligns with some of the most in-demand careers in the aviation and aerospace industries.
The ability to troubleshoot complex electrical systems, interpret technical schematics, and work under FAA-level maintenance standards makes former AEs strong candidates for a range of civilian roles.
FAA-Certified Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Roles
Many AEs transition directly into FAA-certified maintenance positions, working on commercial and private aircraft.
With the right certifications, they can become Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) mechanics, avionics technicians, or maintenance supervisors for airlines and repair stations.
Electrical & Avionics Technician Jobs
Major aerospace companies actively recruit former military AEs because they already have experience working on high-tech aircraft systems. Some of the top employers include:
- Boeing – Avionics and electrical system integration on commercial and military aircraft.
- Lockheed Martin – Electrical troubleshooting and maintenance on advanced fighter jets, including the F-35.
- Northrop Grumman – Aerospace electrical and radar system maintenance for defense contracts.
Federal & State Aviation Jobs
Beyond private industry, former AEs can find careers with government agencies that rely on aviation expertise:
- FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) – Aircraft inspection, regulatory enforcement, and maintenance oversight.
- NASA – Electrical and avionics technician roles supporting space and aeronautical projects.
- Homeland Security (CBP Air & Marine Operations) – Maintenance and repair of law enforcement aircraft used for border security and surveillance.
Certifications & Apprenticeships
To bridge the gap between military and civilian careers, AEs can take advantage of credentialing programs that translate their Navy experience into industry-recognized certifications.
FAA A&P License (Airframe & Powerplant Certification)
The FAA’s A&P certification is the gold standard for aircraft mechanics in the civilian sector.
While AEs don’t receive this license automatically, their military experience can satisfy many of the training requirements, making them eligible to take the exams without additional coursework.
Navy COOL Program (Paid Credentialing for Civilian Licenses)
The Navy Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) program covers the cost of civilian certifications, allowing Reservists to obtain:
- FAA A&P License
- Certified Electronics Technician (CET)
- Electrical and Avionics Repair Specialist Certifications
United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP)
For those looking to formalize their experience, the USMAP program allows AEs to earn Department of Labor-recognized journeyman certifications in aviation maintenance and electrical repair.
This can be a stepping stone to unionized trades or specialized technician roles in the civilian workforce.
The skills AEs develop in the Navy don’t just prepare them for military missions—they open doors to high-paying, high-demand careers across the aviation industry.
Career Planning & Advancement Tools
A successful Navy Reserve career doesn’t just happen—it’s built through training, qualifications, and strategic planning.
Whether an Aviation Electrician’s Mate wants to advance in rank, transition into a civilian career, or pursue higher education, the Navy offers structured tools to guide that process.
Navy Learning and Development Roadmap (LaDR)
Think of the LaDR (Learning and Development Roadmap) as a career GPS for AEs. It outlines the recommended training, certifications, and leadership milestones at each pay grade, from E-1 to E-9.
This roadmap helps Sailors stay competitive for promotions by showing exactly what qualifications and experience they should be working toward.
For SELRES AEs, following the LaDR means staying proactive—earning NECs, taking leadership roles, and completing required training ahead of promotion cycles. Those who do are the ones who move up the fastest.
MilGears Self-Assessment for Civilian Careers
Not every AE stays in for 20 years. Whether planning for a future outside the military or just exploring career options, MilGears is an invaluable tool.
It takes a Sailor’s military training, NECs, and work experience and translates them into civilian job qualifications.
MilGears helps Reservists identify:
- Civilian careers that match their military skill set.
- Industry certifications they already qualify for.
- Gaps they need to fill to meet job requirements.
For AEs considering careers in aviation maintenance, electrical engineering, or federal aviation roles, MilGears provides a clear roadmap for making that transition smoothly.
Navy College Program & Tuition Assistance
A Navy career doesn’t mean putting education on hold. The Navy College Program helps Sailors earn degrees while serving, with tuition assistance covering up to 100% of tuition costs for approved courses.
- Tuition Assistance (TA): Pays up to $250 per credit hour, with an annual cap of $4,500.
- GI Bill Benefits: Provides funding for college, vocational training, and apprenticeships after military service.
Many SELRES AEs use these benefits to earn degrees in electrical engineering, aviation technology, or business management—fields that directly align with both military and civilian career paths.
Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA) for E-8 / E-9 Leadership Training
For those aiming for Master Chief (E-9), leadership training isn’t optional—it’s expected.
The Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA) is the Navy’s premier leadership program for senior enlisted personnel, preparing them for high-level management roles.
The SEA curriculum focuses on:
- Strategic leadership in Navy operations.
- Policy development and decision-making.
- Effective mentorship and command-level leadership.
For AEs who reach Senior Chief (E-8) or Master Chief (E-9), attending SEA isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a career-defining experience that sets them up for leadership at the highest levels.
Is the AE Rating Right for You?
Some jobs in the Navy are about brute force—lifting, loading, moving. Aviation Electrician’s Mate isn’t one of them. This is a thinking job. A problem-solving job.
One where a single wiring fault could mean the difference between an aircraft launching or being grounded.
Who Should Consider Becoming an AE in the Navy Reserve?
This rating isn’t for everyone. It’s technical, precise, and requires patience. A good AE is someone who:
- Loves working with their hands but also likes figuring things out. You’re not just tightening bolts—you’re tracing circuits, diagnosing faults, and making sure multi-million-dollar aircraft work flawlessly.
- Has an eye for detail. A missed connection, a loose wire, a miscalibrated sensor—small mistakes have big consequences.
- Works well under pressure. When a pilot is waiting to launch, and something isn’t working, AEs are the ones fixing it—fast.
- Wants a skill set that translates to civilian careers. Aviation, aerospace, electrical engineering—AE training sets you up for all of it.
Pros & Cons of the AE Rating
Like any military job, being an AE comes with ups and downs. Some thrive in the role. Others realize it’s not the right fit.
Pros:
- High-demand skill set. Whether you stay in the military or transition out, electrical and avionics expertise is always needed.
- Strong civilian career options. Airlines, aerospace companies, and federal agencies all hire former AEs.
- Hands-on work. You’re not stuck behind a desk—you’re in the hangar, on the flight deck, or inside an aircraft.
- Promotion potential. AEs with strong technical skills and leadership ability advance quickly.
- Job variety. Work on everything from helicopters to fighter jets to UAVs, depending on your unit.
Cons:
- Technical training takes time. AE “A” School is 14 weeks, and advanced NECs can take months to earn.
- High responsibility. A mistake in this job isn’t just paperwork—it could ground an aircraft or create a safety risk.
- Physically demanding. Climbing inside aircraft, working in tight spaces, and troubleshooting under pressure comes with the territory.
- Deployments are a possibility. While SELRES AEs serve part-time, mobilizations happen, and some billets require extended time away.
Next Steps: How to Enlist & Begin Your Career as a Navy Reserve AE
If the AE rating sounds like the right fit, here’s how to get started:
- Talk to a Navy Recruiter. Ask specifically about SELRES AE opportunities and current bonuses.
- Take the ASVAB Test. AEs need strong scores in Electrical (EL) and Mechanical (MK) sections.
- Attend Boot Camp. Nine weeks at Great Lakes, IL, to complete basic training.
- Go to AE “A” School. Fourteen weeks in Pensacola, FL, learning electrical and avionics systems.
- Receive Your First Assignment. You’ll be placed in a Reserve squadron or maintenance unit based on fleet needs.
From there, your career is what you make it—whether you stay in the Navy for 20 years, use your training to land a civilian job, or work your way into leadership.
The best AEs don’t just fix aircraft. They make sure they fly—safely, reliably, and whenever they’re needed.
You might also be interested in other Navy Reserve enlisted jobs, such as:
