4 answers
Emmanuel
Student
Tucson, Arizona
1
Question
Updated
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Is an aeronautic engineering degree a necessity to work in aircraft maintenance?
I'd really like to know if it's possible to start a career in aircraft maintenance with only an high school diploma.
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4 answers
Jeff Nguyen
Technical Recruiter + Mentor
17
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Emmanuel,
Aerospace is a pretty big industry that umbrellas various careers, many of which are involved with maintenance and repair. If I am to assume you're referring to the more hands-on work, an engineering degree is not universal for most positions in this field. Instead, there are various programs that only require a High School Diploma or offer certificates/classes for those who want to learn the more hands-on skill.
https://www.west-mec.edu/aviation-technology/
This is a program that I found available in the Arizona area, that might require a bit more looking into. Please note that programs like these usually have hefty tuition fees so be sure to always schedule appointments with counselors or advisors before committing to a program. Please note that if you were to plan some kind of vertical career growth, a formal college degree would ideally help!
Aerospace is a pretty big industry that umbrellas various careers, many of which are involved with maintenance and repair. If I am to assume you're referring to the more hands-on work, an engineering degree is not universal for most positions in this field. Instead, there are various programs that only require a High School Diploma or offer certificates/classes for those who want to learn the more hands-on skill.
https://www.west-mec.edu/aviation-technology/
This is a program that I found available in the Arizona area, that might require a bit more looking into. Please note that programs like these usually have hefty tuition fees so be sure to always schedule appointments with counselors or advisors before committing to a program. Please note that if you were to plan some kind of vertical career growth, a formal college degree would ideally help!
Thank you for this information Jeff.
Emmanuel
Lee Brewster
1
Answer
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Lee’s Answer
Hi! Yes, you can start a career with only a high school diploma! To be a certificated aircraft maintenance technician you will need to obtain the FAA Airframe and Powerplant certifications. You can do this through formal training through an FAA Part 147 school, the military, or through documented experience.
Formal training can be through tech schools, community colleges, and four-year universities. You can use this link to search for schools according to location: https://www.atec-amt.org/school-map.
If you want to start working in the industry as you get your Airframe & Powerplant certificates, you can look for entry-level positions at and around the airports. These companies include repair stations, MROs, and FBOs. These companies support the airlines, cargo operations, business/corporate aviation, and general/private aviation.
Don't forget you can also volunteer. Many airports have museums or vintage aircraft organizations, and they are always looking for people to help.
Find information about the different career options and scholarships: https://aerocareers.net
Find an FAA Part 147 School: https://www.atec-amt.org/school-map
Formal training can be through tech schools, community colleges, and four-year universities. You can use this link to search for schools according to location: https://www.atec-amt.org/school-map.
If you want to start working in the industry as you get your Airframe & Powerplant certificates, you can look for entry-level positions at and around the airports. These companies include repair stations, MROs, and FBOs. These companies support the airlines, cargo operations, business/corporate aviation, and general/private aviation.
Don't forget you can also volunteer. Many airports have museums or vintage aircraft organizations, and they are always looking for people to help.
Lee recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Emmanuel
Aftab Ursani
Flight EngineerB747 at Japan Airlines
41
Answers
Torrance, California
Updated
Aftab’s Answer
As far as I remember, A&P certificate from FAA is mandatory to work as Aircraft mechanic.
A stands for Airframe
P stands for Power Plant.
One way is to join an FAA accredited aviation school and get class room and hands on training and then pass the required FAA exam at FAA certified schools.
A stands for Airframe
P stands for Power Plant.
One way is to join an FAA accredited aviation school and get class room and hands on training and then pass the required FAA exam at FAA certified schools.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3765
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Subject: Aeronautic Engineering Degree: A Necessity for Aircraft Maintenance?
Hi Emmanuel,
Do you need an aeronautic engineering degree to work in aircraft maintenance?
In the realm of aircraft maintenance, an aeronautical engineering degree isn't a hard and fast requirement. While such a degree can certainly pave the way for more advanced career prospects in the aviation sector, it isn't always a prerequisite for entry-level aircraft maintenance positions.
Kickstarting Your Aircraft Maintenance Career Post-High School
You can indeed commence a career in aircraft maintenance armed only with a high school diploma. Numerous individuals initiate their aviation careers by pursuing certifications, licenses, or training programs offered by airlines, maintenance facilities, or technical schools. These programs equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to work on aircraft systems, engines, structures, and avionics.
Certifications and Licenses: Your Passport to Aircraft Maintenance
To function as an aircraft mechanic or technician, you typically need to secure the right certifications from aviation regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Europe. These certifications validate that you have achieved the requisite standards of knowledge and competency to carry out aircraft maintenance tasks safely and proficiently.
Learning on the Job
Many airlines and maintenance facilities provide on-the-job training programs for those keen on carving out a career in aircraft maintenance. These programs often marry classroom instruction with practical experience on actual aircraft under the watchful eyes of seasoned mechanics. Through on-the-job training, you can hone the practical skills and expertise needed to maintain and repair various types of aircraft.
Elevating Your Career
While commencing with a high school diploma is feasible, those who aim to climb the career ladder in aircraft maintenance might consider pursuing additional education or certifications over time. Advanced degrees in aeronautical engineering or related fields can open doors to higher-paying roles, specialized positions, or managerial opportunities within the aviation sector.
In summary, an aeronautical engineering degree isn't a strict requirement for a career in aircraft maintenance. You can embark on this career path with a high school diploma by securing relevant certifications, licenses, or participating in on-the-job training programs offered by aviation organizations.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Consulted:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook
Stay blessed!
James Constantine.
Hi Emmanuel,
Do you need an aeronautic engineering degree to work in aircraft maintenance?
In the realm of aircraft maintenance, an aeronautical engineering degree isn't a hard and fast requirement. While such a degree can certainly pave the way for more advanced career prospects in the aviation sector, it isn't always a prerequisite for entry-level aircraft maintenance positions.
Kickstarting Your Aircraft Maintenance Career Post-High School
You can indeed commence a career in aircraft maintenance armed only with a high school diploma. Numerous individuals initiate their aviation careers by pursuing certifications, licenses, or training programs offered by airlines, maintenance facilities, or technical schools. These programs equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to work on aircraft systems, engines, structures, and avionics.
Certifications and Licenses: Your Passport to Aircraft Maintenance
To function as an aircraft mechanic or technician, you typically need to secure the right certifications from aviation regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in Europe. These certifications validate that you have achieved the requisite standards of knowledge and competency to carry out aircraft maintenance tasks safely and proficiently.
Learning on the Job
Many airlines and maintenance facilities provide on-the-job training programs for those keen on carving out a career in aircraft maintenance. These programs often marry classroom instruction with practical experience on actual aircraft under the watchful eyes of seasoned mechanics. Through on-the-job training, you can hone the practical skills and expertise needed to maintain and repair various types of aircraft.
Elevating Your Career
While commencing with a high school diploma is feasible, those who aim to climb the career ladder in aircraft maintenance might consider pursuing additional education or certifications over time. Advanced degrees in aeronautical engineering or related fields can open doors to higher-paying roles, specialized positions, or managerial opportunities within the aviation sector.
In summary, an aeronautical engineering degree isn't a strict requirement for a career in aircraft maintenance. You can embark on this career path with a high school diploma by securing relevant certifications, licenses, or participating in on-the-job training programs offered by aviation organizations.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Consulted:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook
Stay blessed!
James Constantine.