What to Expect from an Aviation Mechanic School Program
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in aviation, becoming an aviation mechanic is an excellent option. However, before you can become a licensed aviation mechanic, you’ll need to complete an accredited aviation mechanic school program. Here’s what you can expect from such a program.
Coursework
The coursework of an aviation mechanic school program typically covers a wide range of topics, including aircraft systems and structures, engine theory and maintenance, avionics systems and repair, and aircraft welding. You’ll also learn about safety standards and regulations that govern the industry.
In addition to classroom lectures, you’ll have hands-on training in the form of lab work. This will allow you to apply the knowledge you’ve gained in the classroom to real-world situations. You may also have the opportunity to work on actual aircraft under the supervision of experienced mechanics.
Certifications
Once you’ve completed your coursework, you’ll need to pass written and practical exams administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These exams cover all aspects of aircraft maintenance and repair.
Passing these exams will earn you one or more FAA certifications depending on which tests you take. For example, passing the Airframe exam will earn you an Airframe certification while passing both Airframe and Powerplant exams will earn you both certifications.
Career Opportunities
With your FAA certification(s) in hand, there are many career opportunities available to you as an aviation mechanic. You may choose to work for airlines or other commercial carriers that operate their own repair facilities or for independent maintenance providers that service multiple clients.
You could also work for manufacturers that build aircraft or their components or for government agencies such as NASA or the military that operate their own fleets of planes and helicopters.
Salary Expectations
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $64,090 as of May 2019. However, salaries can vary widely depending on your experience, certifications, and location.
For example, mechanics who work for commercial airlines tend to earn higher salaries than those who work for smaller repair shops. Mechanics who hold both Airframe and Powerplant certifications also tend to earn higher salaries than those who hold only one certification.
In conclusion, an aviation mechanic school program provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to become a licensed aviation mechanic. With your FAA certification(s), you’ll have many career opportunities available to you in the aviation industry. And while salaries can vary widely, a career as an aviation mechanic can be both rewarding and lucrative.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
