Aircraft Mechanic and Technician Careers

Did You Know…??? May 24th is Aviation Maintenance Technician Day! On AMT Day, we honor the men and women who ensure the safety and security of our aircraft!

Aviation Maintenance Technicians who can troubleshoot, repair, and maintain powered aircraft are in high demand to ensure safe aircraft operations. Factors contributing to this demand include the expansion of the global fleet, an aging workforce, and increasingly complex aircraft technology. At the same time, the aviation industry is experiencing a shortage of qualified maintenance technicians. This means that graduates from reputable aviation maintenance schools will find strong job prospects in aircraft mechanic and technician positions.

There are many job titles for people who perform maintenance on aircraft, including:

• Aircraft Mechanic
• Aircraft Technician
• Aircraft Engineer
• Aviation Engineer
• Airframe and Powerplant Technician
• A&P Mechanic
• Aircraft Maintenance Technician
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
• Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer
• Aviation Maintenance Technician
• Aviation Maintenance Engineer
• Avionic Technician

Several of these terms are often used interchangeably, and some of the skills may overlap, but they do have some distinctions based on their focus and responsibilities. For example, let’s look at the difference between an Aircraft Mechanic, Aircraft Technician, and Avionic Technician.

Aircraft Mechanic: This role primarily involves hands-on maintenance, repairs, and inspections of mechanical systems like engines, landing gear, brakes, and hydraulics. In the U.S., the term is commonly associated with professionals holding an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification.

Aircraft Technician: This is a broader term that includes both mechanical and electrical systems. The electrical system is essential to the proper functioning of any modern aircraft and is responsible for running everything from the auxiliary fuel pump and engine starter motor, to the lights and air conditioning.

Avionic Technician: Unlike aircraft mechanics, there’s only really one term for avionics (aviation electronics) technicians. Avionics technicians specialize in electronic instruments such radio communication devices, radar systems, and navigation aids. They will run cables, mount antennas, and connect instruments that aid in engine monitoring.

While an Aircraft Maintenance Technician can diagnose and repair mechanical and/or electrical problems on an aircraft, only avionics technicians work on electronic equipment. So the choice between these roles depends on your interests—such as whether you’re drawn to traditional mechanical and electrical systems, or the technical intricacies of avionics. Which one sparks your curiosity?

Education and Training

Developing aviation maintenance skills requires a blend of education, hands-on training, and experience. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Formal Education
   1. Enroll in an FAA-certified Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS). These schools offer programs that prepare you for the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certifications.
   2. Study fields like mechanical engineering, aeronautics, or avionics for a deeper understanding.
2. Obtain Certifications
   1. Earn the A&P certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This is a fundamental credential for aviation maintenance technicians.
   2. Look into additional certifications, such as those for specific aircraft systems or components.
3. Practical Training
   1. Gain experience by working on real aircraft through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions at maintenance repair organizations (MROs), airlines, or the military.
   2. Focus on areas like inspecting, repairing, and maintaining various aircraft systems (e.g., engines, hydraulics, electronics).

4. Stay Updated

1. 1. Follow industry trends and emerging technologies in composite materials, digital avionics, and unmanned aerial systems.
   2. Attend aviation maintenance conferences or join professional organizations like the Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Association (AMTA).

5. Develop Related Skills

1. 1. Enhance problem-solving abilities and technical expertise by working with complex machinery or systems outside of aviation.
   2. Practice reading and interpreting technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics.

Aviation Maintenance Schools

Here are some reputable aviation maintenance schools you might consider:

• Aviation Institute of Maintenance (Phoenix, AZ) – Offers hands-on training and strong industry connections to prepare students for aviation maintenance careers.
• Chandler-Gilbert Community College (Mesa, AZ) – Known for its Aviation and Applied Technology Division, offering comprehensive programs in aviation maintenance.
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Prescott, AZ) – Often referred to as “The Harvard of the Skies,” it provides rigorous programs in aeronautical science and aviation maintenance.
• National Aviation Academy (Clearwater, FL and Bedford, MA) – A long-standing institution with a focus on producing skilled aviation professionals.
• Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (Multiple Locations) – Renowned for its aviation maintenance programs and strong graduate employment rates.

Military Aircraft Maintenance Programs

The military can be an excellent way to get training in aircraft maintenance. Military aircraft maintenance programs are rigorous and comprehensive. You’ll have the opportunity to receive hands-on training with advanced aircraft systems, such as cutting-edge unmanned drones, that may not be available in civilian aviation.

The mechanics of the U.S. Air Force are called maintainers. Maintainers do the inspections, troubleshooting and repairs to make sure military aircraft are safe and ready to fly at a moment’s notice. The U.S. Army also offers a wide range of aviation training in the following categories:

Aircraft Pneudraulics Repairer – Inspect and perform maintenance on airplane and helicopter pneudraulic systems — the combination of hydraulic and compressed air pressure that powers aircraft parts, such as landing gear, rudders, and brakes.

Aircraft Powertrain Repairer – Inspect and perform maintenance on aircraft powertrains systems—disassembling and fixing parts such as transmissions, engines, and rotary wings to make sure planes and helicopters are safe and ready to fly.

Aircraft Powerplant Repairer – Inspect and perform maintenance on aircraft turbine engines and components. You’ll diagnose and troubleshoot problems and do operational and safety checks.

Avionic Mechanic – Perform maintenance on tactical communications, communications security, navigation, and flight control equipment.

AH-64 Armament / Electrical / Avionic Systems Repairer – Troubleshoot and maintain twin-engine attack helicopters including weapons, firing, and targeting systems.

Many military aircraft maintenance programs align with civilian certifications, such as FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) licenses in the U.S. This means that after serving, you may be well-positioned to transition into civilian aviation maintenance roles. Which type of training are you most interested in?