When it comes to the aerospace industry, there is no room for compromises in quality, consistency and safety. In 2025, flying hours are expected to hit record highs, requiring even more aircraft and services than what are currently available. With growing pressure, manufacturers face numerous challenges, including finding suitable suppliers amidst supply chain uncertainty, stocking up on inventory and continuing to produce quality products that help ensure safety for end use.
One of the key components of ensuring that manufacturers create products that meet industry standards is certification to AS9100: Quality Management Systems – Requirements for Aviation, Space, and Defense Organizations(AS9100). Aerospace auditors are crucial in auditing manufacturers to the standard; however, the industry is facing an extreme shortage of auditors that will only continue to grow without significant retention and recruitment. This critical issue affects aerospace manufacturers, suppliers and government contracts worldwide. Industry professionals must understand the importance of AS9100 auditors, the reasons auditors are leaving the field and why a career move to auditing is not only useful, but how it can also help the industry meet demands.