6 answers
Keyla
Student
Hollywood, Florida
1
Question
Asked
3477 views
Entry Level Aircraft Maintenance Apprenticeship?
Where is a good place to find an apprenticeship to get into a entry level aircraft maintenance career? I've gone on several websites and applied to many positions that don't require any experience and get no response or a "no" response even after explaining i have some familiarity with mechanics and am studying to get an A&P license (which seems to meet their expectations from the description and requirements presented on their applications).
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6 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hello there,
Alright, Keyla, I see what’s going on here. You’re doing everything right—applying to jobs that say no experience required, explaining your background, and still getting ghosted or rejected. Annoying, right? I get it. And honestly, Dinesh gave some solid advice, but I think there are a few things missing that might help you crack into the industry.
First, Let’s Address the Elephant in the Hangar—No Experience!!!
Even if a job says no experience needed, what they really mean is we want you to already know what you're doing but just not officially. I know—makes no sense. That’s where hands-on exposure comes in. Since you're studying for your A&P, you need to get as close to the action as possible.
So, What Can You Do? 🤔 Weeeell....
1. Go Local and Knock on Some Doors
You're in Hollywood, FL, which means you're right next to Miami and Fort Lauderdale—two massive aviation hubs. Companies like AAR, FEAM, STS Aviation, and even Spirit Airlines have maintenance facilities nearby. Instead of just applying online and waiting for rejection emails, show up. Talk to the HR reps, mechanics, or hiring managers. Let them see you’re serious. Sometimes, that face-to-face interaction can open doors.
2. Find a "Foot-in-the-Door" Job
If an apprenticeship isn't happening right away, try applying for any entry-level job inside the aviation world. Ramp agents, fuelers, aircraft cleaners, or even warehouse positions at MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) companies can be golden. Why? Because once you're in, you start making connections. You’ll hear about openings before they hit job boards, and if you're already in the system, it’s way easier to transition into a maintenance role.
3. Use the FAA’s Apprenticeship and Internship Resources
Most people don’t realize this, but the FAA and Florida’s CareerSource program sometimes list apprenticeships that aren’t widely advertised. Check out the Department of Labor’s apprenticeship site too. It takes a little digging, but there are real opportunities out there.
4. Network Like You’re Running for Office
You’re in an industry where who you know matters as much as what you know. Try this:
Join aviation Facebook and LinkedIn groups—you’d be surprised how many mechanics post job leads there.
Go to airport job fairs—MIA and FLL have these all the time.
Talk to mechanics in training programs—some schools have partnerships with airlines, and students hear about openings first.
5. Stay Persistent—It’s a Numbers Game 😏
Look, it sucks getting rejected, but here’s the thing—every rejection brings you one step closer to a "yes." Keep applying, keep following up, and keep showing up in person when possible. Once someone gives you that first break, you’re in, and from there, it only gets easier.
So yeah, Dinesh was on point with his advice, but I’d say focus more on local networking, face-to-face connections, and getting your foot in the aviation door by any means necessary. You got this—just keep going, and something will land soon. We are here for you and don't hesitate to reach out if need be!🤗
Network directly with local aircraft maintenance shops, FBOs (Fixed Base Operators), and regional airlines—visit in person, express your eagerness to learn, and ask if they offer apprenticeships or need helpers. Face-to-face persistence often works better than online applications.
Alright, Keyla, I see what’s going on here. You’re doing everything right—applying to jobs that say no experience required, explaining your background, and still getting ghosted or rejected. Annoying, right? I get it. And honestly, Dinesh gave some solid advice, but I think there are a few things missing that might help you crack into the industry.
First, Let’s Address the Elephant in the Hangar—No Experience!!!
Even if a job says no experience needed, what they really mean is we want you to already know what you're doing but just not officially. I know—makes no sense. That’s where hands-on exposure comes in. Since you're studying for your A&P, you need to get as close to the action as possible.
So, What Can You Do? 🤔 Weeeell....
1. Go Local and Knock on Some Doors
You're in Hollywood, FL, which means you're right next to Miami and Fort Lauderdale—two massive aviation hubs. Companies like AAR, FEAM, STS Aviation, and even Spirit Airlines have maintenance facilities nearby. Instead of just applying online and waiting for rejection emails, show up. Talk to the HR reps, mechanics, or hiring managers. Let them see you’re serious. Sometimes, that face-to-face interaction can open doors.
2. Find a "Foot-in-the-Door" Job
If an apprenticeship isn't happening right away, try applying for any entry-level job inside the aviation world. Ramp agents, fuelers, aircraft cleaners, or even warehouse positions at MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) companies can be golden. Why? Because once you're in, you start making connections. You’ll hear about openings before they hit job boards, and if you're already in the system, it’s way easier to transition into a maintenance role.
3. Use the FAA’s Apprenticeship and Internship Resources
Most people don’t realize this, but the FAA and Florida’s CareerSource program sometimes list apprenticeships that aren’t widely advertised. Check out the Department of Labor’s apprenticeship site too. It takes a little digging, but there are real opportunities out there.
4. Network Like You’re Running for Office
You’re in an industry where who you know matters as much as what you know. Try this:
Join aviation Facebook and LinkedIn groups—you’d be surprised how many mechanics post job leads there.
Go to airport job fairs—MIA and FLL have these all the time.
Talk to mechanics in training programs—some schools have partnerships with airlines, and students hear about openings first.
5. Stay Persistent—It’s a Numbers Game 😏
Look, it sucks getting rejected, but here’s the thing—every rejection brings you one step closer to a "yes." Keep applying, keep following up, and keep showing up in person when possible. Once someone gives you that first break, you’re in, and from there, it only gets easier.
So yeah, Dinesh was on point with his advice, but I’d say focus more on local networking, face-to-face connections, and getting your foot in the aviation door by any means necessary. You got this—just keep going, and something will land soon. We are here for you and don't hesitate to reach out if need be!🤗
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Gil Newball
Aircraft mechanic
3
Answers
Boynton Beach, Florida
Updated
Gil’s Answer
Hi Keyla.
Apprenticeships can be hard to locate. It was for me, and at the time, I was not far from you; I was in Palm Beach County.
Attend Broward College, honestly. Their program is solid and has been around for decades. The work experience will come. And once some shops see that you do have experience in school, you will have an easier chance of landing an apprenticeship. I have to admit to being a bit partial to Broward College…I am a teacher there.
Ask questions at North Perry Airport. Check out “Bobby’s Landing” near BC.
But also be aware that most places do not provide tools; you will need to provide your own tools (SAE, not metric). It can get expensive very quickly.
Experience is experience. Some here have said some interesting things about general aviation (propeller-driven airplanes). Jets are very similar. I went from working at an avionics shop working on propeller planes into the airlines from one week to the next. You never know what your journey will bring!
Apply to Broward College, and go for a tour either Tuesday or Thursday at 10:00 AM.
Visit North Perry Airport, and just ask questions; be curious.
Ask them about the tools you will need; you often have to buy your own tools.
Start local, and as you build your experience, you will work well in expanding your experience and your network.
Apprenticeships can be hard to locate. It was for me, and at the time, I was not far from you; I was in Palm Beach County.
Attend Broward College, honestly. Their program is solid and has been around for decades. The work experience will come. And once some shops see that you do have experience in school, you will have an easier chance of landing an apprenticeship. I have to admit to being a bit partial to Broward College…I am a teacher there.
Ask questions at North Perry Airport. Check out “Bobby’s Landing” near BC.
But also be aware that most places do not provide tools; you will need to provide your own tools (SAE, not metric). It can get expensive very quickly.
Experience is experience. Some here have said some interesting things about general aviation (propeller-driven airplanes). Jets are very similar. I went from working at an avionics shop working on propeller planes into the airlines from one week to the next. You never know what your journey will bring!
Gil recommends the following next steps:
David R
Aircraft maintenance
1
Answer
San Diego, California
Updated
David’s Answer
In my experience, Military service is a great pathway to an A&P license. The military isn’t for everyone, but if it is for you, you can leave the military with your A&P for free. The military can act as your apprenticeship, gaining in depth experience in aircraft maintenance. After 30 months of experience as an aircraft mechanic, you are eligible to test for your A&P for the airframe and powerplant rating, or 18 months experience for just the airframe OR powerplant rating by itself.
The military also offers grants, such as the Marine Corps C.O.O.L. Program, that will pay for testing as well as schools that will help you prepare for your tests. You can also use grants such as FAFSA. All of this can be done on active duty time, and it would cost no money out of pocket.
If the military is not for you, find a technical school that offers apprenticeships with an A&P program. As an example, George Stone is a technical school in northwest Florida that offers apprenticeships through Amentum, which is a company that contracts aircraft maintenance for the military.
My last piece of advice would be to not give up. The field you’ve chosen is extremely competitive, but will be needed in this country for decades to come. It can be discouraging to hear “no” all the time, but eventually you’ll get your food in the door and you’ll do great from there!
Good luck!
The military also offers grants, such as the Marine Corps C.O.O.L. Program, that will pay for testing as well as schools that will help you prepare for your tests. You can also use grants such as FAFSA. All of this can be done on active duty time, and it would cost no money out of pocket.
If the military is not for you, find a technical school that offers apprenticeships with an A&P program. As an example, George Stone is a technical school in northwest Florida that offers apprenticeships through Amentum, which is a company that contracts aircraft maintenance for the military.
My last piece of advice would be to not give up. The field you’ve chosen is extremely competitive, but will be needed in this country for decades to come. It can be discouraging to hear “no” all the time, but eventually you’ll get your food in the door and you’ll do great from there!
Good luck!
Dinesh Singh
Senior Solution Architect
72
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Dinesh’s Answer
Embarking on a journey to find an apprenticeship in aircraft maintenance can be exciting and rewarding. Here are some paths you can explore:
Aviation Maintenance Schools: Many technical schools and colleges offer Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) programs. These institutions often have strong ties with airlines and maintenance companies, which can lead to apprenticeships or cooperative education opportunities.
Airlines and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Companies: Leading airlines and MRO companies like Delta, United, and American Airlines, as well as AAR Corp and Lufthansa Technik, frequently have apprenticeship programs. Keep an eye on their career pages for new openings.
Trade Associations: Groups like the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) or the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) can be great resources for finding apprenticeships and entry-level positions.
Government Programs: In some countries, aviation authorities or labor departments may offer or list apprenticeship programs. For instance, in the U.S., the Department of Labor's apprenticeship website is a good place to look.
Job Boards and Career Websites: Websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn often feature listings for aircraft maintenance apprenticeships. You can set up alerts to be notified about new opportunities that fit your criteria.
Networking: Attending industry conferences, seminars, or local aviation events is a fantastic way to meet professionals who might guide you to apprenticeship opportunities. Online forums and social media groups focused on aviation maintenance are also valuable resources.
Military Service: If you're open to it, serving in the military through branches like the U.S. Air Force or Navy offers excellent training and experience in aircraft maintenance, which can be a great asset for a civilian career later on.
By exploring these avenues, you're taking positive steps toward finding the right apprenticeship in aircraft maintenance. Keep pushing forward, and your efforts will lead to success!
Aviation Maintenance Schools: Many technical schools and colleges offer Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) programs. These institutions often have strong ties with airlines and maintenance companies, which can lead to apprenticeships or cooperative education opportunities.
Airlines and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Companies: Leading airlines and MRO companies like Delta, United, and American Airlines, as well as AAR Corp and Lufthansa Technik, frequently have apprenticeship programs. Keep an eye on their career pages for new openings.
Trade Associations: Groups like the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) or the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) can be great resources for finding apprenticeships and entry-level positions.
Government Programs: In some countries, aviation authorities or labor departments may offer or list apprenticeship programs. For instance, in the U.S., the Department of Labor's apprenticeship website is a good place to look.
Job Boards and Career Websites: Websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn often feature listings for aircraft maintenance apprenticeships. You can set up alerts to be notified about new opportunities that fit your criteria.
Networking: Attending industry conferences, seminars, or local aviation events is a fantastic way to meet professionals who might guide you to apprenticeship opportunities. Online forums and social media groups focused on aviation maintenance are also valuable resources.
Military Service: If you're open to it, serving in the military through branches like the U.S. Air Force or Navy offers excellent training and experience in aircraft maintenance, which can be a great asset for a civilian career later on.
By exploring these avenues, you're taking positive steps toward finding the right apprenticeship in aircraft maintenance. Keep pushing forward, and your efforts will lead to success!
Thank you so much! I appreciate the time you took to provide this information.
Keyla
Larry Apfel
Aircraft Mechanic
17
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Keyla,
There are 2 ways to get an A&P license. One way is to go to a school for aviation maintenance and the other is on-the-job training. The school route takes typically 2 years. The o-t-j training takes a minimum of 3 years.
That being said....you want to intern so you want on-the-job training. Most airlines are looking for experienced (2 years) applicants. General aviation which consists mostly of piston driven aircraft with propellers are the better chance of getting hired without experience. Every airport has a FBO (fixed base operator) where general aviation maintenance is performed. If those places are not actively looking, it might worthwhile for you to visit them in person and ask them for a job. They are the kind of places that would consider a part-time student helping out and learning the trade. The up side for them is you might come work for them full-time after you become an A&P mechanic.
The aircraft mechanic field is in high demand right now and employers are looking for good people to fill their ranks; plenty of work available for the foreseeable future.
Best of luck,
Larry A.
There are 2 ways to get an A&P license. One way is to go to a school for aviation maintenance and the other is on-the-job training. The school route takes typically 2 years. The o-t-j training takes a minimum of 3 years.
That being said....you want to intern so you want on-the-job training. Most airlines are looking for experienced (2 years) applicants. General aviation which consists mostly of piston driven aircraft with propellers are the better chance of getting hired without experience. Every airport has a FBO (fixed base operator) where general aviation maintenance is performed. If those places are not actively looking, it might worthwhile for you to visit them in person and ask them for a job. They are the kind of places that would consider a part-time student helping out and learning the trade. The up side for them is you might come work for them full-time after you become an A&P mechanic.
The aircraft mechanic field is in high demand right now and employers are looking for good people to fill their ranks; plenty of work available for the foreseeable future.
Best of luck,
Larry A.
Devin Bush
ADME|ART/DESIGN/MEDIA/ENTRTNMNT
2
Answers
West Hollywood, California
Updated
Devin’s Answer
You're in Hollywood, there's a school in Los Angeles California the address is 1670 Wilsher Blvd. Los Angeles, California 90017
Set up a call with a coordinator here's a number (213) 413-6714
Tell her you're interested in (Your field of choice)
Devin recommends the following next steps: