Have you always loved airplanes? Have you always wanted to really see what's inside them and work with them every day? You should look into getting your college training in aircraft maintenance, maybe even a college degree. Those who do aircraft maintenance are often called aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics or aircraft service technicians. Those involved in aircraft maintenance make sure that aircraft are maintained and repaired properly so they can fly high and safe. Aircraft service technicians are responsible to inspect aircraft engines, landing gear, and all other parts required for safe flying. They also do preventive maintenance and keep records on all maintenance that is performed.
Most aircraft service technicians get their education through an Aviation Maintenance Technician school certified by the FAA. There are about 170 of these schools throughout the United States. THE FAA requires by law that these schools necessitate students to have at least 1900 class hours. These training programs generally last anywhere from 12 months to 24 months. Some schools actually award associate's degrees (2 years of study) and bachelor's degrees (4 years of study) in avionics, aviation technology, or aviation maintenance management.
Employment Outlook for Aircraft Maintenance is Soaring High
The employment outlook for aircraft maintenance is very positive. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, this field is expected to see about a seven percent increase in growth between now and 2018. This growth will mostly be created by a need to fill positions being left by retiring mechanics and also growth in the smaller regional airline market. This is also where the best positions will be offered on the smaller airline level. There may also be more job opening as fewer technically skilled individuals enter this field and go into college computer programs instead.
Great Salaries Available for Aircraft Maintenance Repair Technicians
The aircraft maintenance repair field offers some great salaries. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, aircraft mechanics had median hourly wages over $24.00 per hour in 2008. Those who worked on jets generally made a little higher hourly wage. The highest paying industries for aircraft mechanics were schedule air transportation and the federal executive branch of government.
Great Programs Available in Aircraft Maintenance
Colleges certified by the FAA are offering excellent programs in aircraft maintenance right now. These schools offer certification programs that take anywhere from 1 year to 24 months to complete. They also offer associate's degrees (2 years of study) and bachelor's degrees (4 years of study).
If you are interested in earning a degree in Aircraft Maintenance, click here to request more information.
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