The COVID-19 crisis is forcing the aerospace and defense (A&D) industries to conduct their work with fewer people and farther apart. This reality poses tremendous challenges to manufacturers everywhere. Fortunately, through innovation, the A&D communities had remained nimble and adaptive; although uncertainty persists. Aviation Week Network conducted a workforce study to answer urgent questions about what the A&D industry have been implementing in response to the pandemic, and how covid-19 have changed industry practices. The study also highlighted progress made toward diversity and inclusion, along with data concerning hiring practices and trends in retirement.
Separately, surveys were conducted for college students pursuing related careers, and young professionals across 12 companies nationwide. These surveys aim to identify factors in students’ career decision-making as well as describe the demography of the target population.