AVIATION TECHNICIAN CAREER PATH

Aviation mechanics, also known as aviation technicians, get to work on some of the world’s biggest machinery. They can be found in a variety of industries, from commercial airlines that transport people to destinations around the world, to manufacturers and businesses that ship vital goods and equipment.

If you enjoy working with your hands and are interested in training to become an aircraft mechanic, keep reading to learn about the aviation technician job outlook and how it might impact your future.¹

Aviation Mechanic Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there’s a demand for aviation mechanics. In fact, the aircraft mechanic career outlook for total aviation technician employment in the United States is expected to exceed 148,000 by 2033.⁷¹

Also according to the BLS, there were 137,630 aircraft mechanics and service technicians in the U.S. in May 2023. Every state throughout the country employed these technicians.

Aviation Mechanic Careers

When you go through an aviation technician training program, you could gain the skills that can prepare you for an entry-level aviation mechanic job, as well as other career paths. Most of our grads are prepared to work as entry-level technicians or entry-level roles. As with any industry, over time, they may be able to advance in their career with experience and hard work. Some entry-level and advanced roles could include:⁷⁷

Aircraft mechanic (entry-level)

An aircraft mechanic job description includes diagnosing electrical and mechanical problems, repairing aircraft components, replacing defective parts and testing aircraft components. Aircraft mechanics perform scheduled maintenance, fix issues and complete inspections following regulations set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Aircraft mechanical installer (advanced)

An aircraft mechanical installer uses hand or power tools to install aircraft structural, electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and plumbing accessories and components.

Helicopter mechanic (advanced)

Helicopter mechanics specialize in working on helicopter aircraft. Helicopters may be used for purposes including recreation, private transportation and emergency medical services transportation.

Avionics technician (advanced)

Avionics technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining electronic instruments in aircraft. These include radar systems, navigation aids and radio communication equipment and devices.

Aviation Training in Our Programs

Graduates of the Airframe & Powerplant Technician program (A&P) at UTI are eligible to apply and test for A&P certification from the Federal Aviation Administration.^79,128

You can train at our Avondale, Arizona; Long Beach, California; Miramar, Florida; Canton, Michigan; or Houston, Texas campuses. Our campus in Canton also offers an associate of applied science (AAS) degree in Aviation Maintenance!

Talk to an Admissions Rep for more information.

Our program is designed to be completed in less than 2 years and teach skills that include:

• Airframe electrical
• Airframe fire protection
• Assembly and rigging
• Basic sheet metal and welding familiarization
• Hydraulics and pneumatics
• Navigation and communication systems
• Non-destructive testing
• Non-metallic structures
• Paints and finishes
• Powerplant lubrication systems
• Propellers
• Reciprocating engine operation
• Turbine engine designs

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to apply and test for A&P FAA certification and will be prepared to apply for entry-level jobs in the aircraft technician field.