How to Begin a Career in Aircraft Maintenance Technology
According to Enlow and Associates, aircraft maintenance technology encompasses the entire range of technical and operational capabilities that enable safe and efficient flight. Aside from civil aviation aircraft, airships and balloons require routine maintenance as well. These cars are often composed of composite materials such as carbon fiber and fiberglass. A technician must be trained in the proper installation and maintenance of these materials, as well as the use of appropriate tools and equipment.
The A&P certificate is frequently sufficient to work in a wide range of aircraft environments, including commercial and military airlines. Large airlines, on the other hand, normally only engage one technician per aircraft to work on a single sector. They typically work on the airframe, engines, hydraulics, and electrical systems. Wind turbines and drones, both of which are unmanned aerial vehicles, require similar upkeep as aircraft. Similarly, theme parks often engage one technician to undertake ride maintenance, even if these are not federally certified.
Aside from a technical education, aviation maintenance personnel must also have personal integrity. Technicians must follow directions and not leave anything out. It’s crucial to know that aviation mechanics have a lot of documentation to complete, including strict safety standards. Regardless of their experience, technicians must adhere to strict safety regulations. Keeping safety and aircraft integrity at the forefront of one’s thoughts is critical to advancing in the field of airplane maintenance. However, if you want to work as an airplane maintenance specialist, there are other routes you can take.
Students in the AMT program learn about many parts of airframe mechanics, such as hydraulics, electrical systems, and structural members. They will also be able to work on FAA-certified aircraft. They will be qualified to take the FAA certification exams when they graduate, ensuring that they are qualified to operate in the field. The best thing is that this curriculum will prepare you for your certification examinations as a maintenance technician.
Enlow and Associates believes that many individuals who pursue a career in aircraft maintenance technology begin as floor mechanics at major airlines or regional airlines. These professions typically demand seven years of experience, as well as ongoing education to keep up with new aircraft and parts. An individual interested in becoming an aircraft maintenance technician may consider enrolling in an aviation maintenance technology degree program at a recognized technical college.
The BSAMT program is meant to provide students with hands-on experience, classroom education, and teacher evaluations. A trained instructor is a wonderful mentor, and they may also recommend after-school activities. It should also be FAA-approved so that they can receive the requisite training. It is critical to select a school that is cheap. If you’re unsure about the cost, talk to a financial assistance advisor about your choices.
The expansion of the aviation industry has offered new career prospects for those interested in aircraft repair. A growing demand for qualified technicians will result in thousands of new jobs being created each year, many of which will offer good perks. A career in airplane maintenance technology has few limitations. With the advent of unmanned aerial systems and helicopters, this business is expected to expand more in the coming years. With the number of aircraft expected to expand over the next decade, the future is bright for qualified airplane maintenance workers.
AMT professionals can also work in the federal government, assisting with regulatory monitoring and technical duties. As nondestructive inspection methods such as thermography/infrared and magnetic particle become more popular, AMT specialists will profit from technological advancement. Most graduates will likely find work as an aircraft mechanic or technician after graduation. However, these roles are highly specialized and necessitate a high level of education and training. There is no reason to put off entering this industry.
A certificate degree in aircraft maintenance technology prepares students for professions in the aviation industry, which includes structural manufacturing. While this degree can prepare you for a job in aircraft repair, it does not guarantee promotion. All courses in the Associate of Applied Science in Aircraft Maintenance Technology program must be completed with a grade of C or above. Earning a certificate, like any other degree program, is a crucial step towards a career in aviation.
Enlow and Associates feels that mechanics perform routine inspections on airplanes and ensure that they are functioning properly. They also check the tension in control cables, inspect the rust on aircraft parts, and look for fractures and distortion in the fuselage and wings. When repairs are required, mechanics adhere to manufacturer requirements. However, they frequently face a shortage of resources and competence, which can have a negative impact on their work.