Way back in 1992, I was hired by a business aviation company to provide writing services involving updating flight, mechanic and cabin crew manuals, as well as writing related newsletters for crewmembers and staff. Though I didn’t have an aviation background, I quickly learned quite a bit about the different jobs related to business aircraft and realized that a career as an aviation mechanic was a good path for some to follow.
Almost every mechanic I met was a guy, but there were a handful of gals who chose this field too. Because they worked in business aviation (private jets) their pay was quite good, with most making between $35-60,000 annually, even higher if they’ve been at it for some time and were working in a supervisory capacity.
Aviation Mechanic Training
Some aviation mechanics received their training through the military while others learned their skills via the private sector. But, quite a few attended one of the many aviation maintenance technical schools located across the nation, FAR 147 recognized programs where they received either powerplant or airframe mechanic training, sometimes both. In addition, many of these same schools offer avionics training which includes aircraft electronics and instrumentation.
School lasts from twelve to twenty-four months, with many operating year round. This means you’ll be attending class throughout the year, with a week off here or there for summer or Christmas holiday or a semester break. Though you’ll receive a certificate for successfully completing your studies, you’ll still be required to sit for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams to obtain a license.
You’ll Want To Obtain A License
By the way, you can work on an aircraft if you don’t have a license as long as you are working in the company of someone who has one. Of course, if good pay and having the opportunity for advancement are both important to you, then obtaining your license is a must.
When working as an aviation mechanic, you can expect to work in conditions not too dissimilar from what an auto mechanic experiences. Instead of a garage, you’ll do some of your work in a hanger or on the field if the aircraft is outside. In some cases you’ll be expected to fly to a separate destination to work on a plane. If you’re really good at what you do, you may be able to accompany a private jet around the world to see that all maintenance checks are performed. This is rare, but it does happen.
Financial Aid And Your Schooling
Like colleges, trade schools offering aviation mechanic certification understand that the cost of attending school can be expensive, therefore a number of them have a financial aid officer on hand to discuss your options. Private and government student loans are a possibility as well as Parent PLUS loans. Even some college scholarships are directed to the aviation sector, a great way to reduce your financial burden.
Photo Credit: Paul Campbell
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