As an instructor at Universal Technical Institute’s Avondale campus, Abraham Garcia is a nose-to-tail kind of guy when it comes to aircraft.¹ He's just about seen it all.

"My biggest strength is all my practical hand skills, and being straight out of a shop, I know what it’s like to work at a shop like this,” Abraham shares.

From the U.S. Air Force maintaining F-35s at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, Abraham is now sharing his insights with the next generation. And there are three important things you’ll need to learn as an A&P student. Read below to find out!

First in The A&P Course Breakdown: The Foundation

When students first start their A&P training at UTI, it’s about building a foundation, all the way down to learning how to turn a wrench. Students learn basic math, physics and the science behind what makes aviation operate. In the training labs, students develop skills hands.on starting with small projects to start problem-solving. According to Abraham, this is the launchpad necessary before training on the large equipment.

“We start with the general … because we’ve got to build that strong foundation to lead us into the more heavy stuff,” Abraham explains.

Next Comes the Heavy Stuff: Airframe & Powerplant Hands-on Training

After completing the first few courses, students gain a more comprehensive understanding of avionics and handling tools, and that’s when it’s time to crack into the Airframe & Powerplant side — often the more exciting part of training, as Abraham tells us. Students get their hands on engines, learning how the engine and fuel work, and putting the pieces together. They’ll look at smaller cable-based engines and dive into electronics for bigger planes.

“We’re breaking down engines, we’re breaking apart sheet metal and riveting it together … We definitely try to set them up for success here,” adds Abraham.

The third (and most important) piece: Safety

Above all, when training in airframe and powerplant technology, Abraham tries to instill safety in each of his students. This includes following guidelines and having the confidence to know what to do when a problem arises.

“At the end of the day, people’s lives are at stake when they fly in that aircraft,” Abraham explains. “So, the main thing I try to instill in my students is that safety aspect.”

The Goal: FAA Testing

"The main thing we want to work toward is FAA testing to get our license," Abraham emphasizes.¹²⁸

Earning an FAA A&P license can help open doors toward opportunities, according to Abraham. And it’s not just maintenance on aviation! Learning to maintain powerplant operations may   lead to skills other types of employers might notice.⁸⁰ For example, Abraham’s colleague is now working on hydro pumps for John Deere!

“It’s nowhere near aviation, but because he built those hand skills through an A&P program, he was able to use them,” he shares. 

Earning an A&P license takes intensive testing, and that’s why instructors like Abraham go out of their way to support you how they can. Abraham holds tutoring sessions to help students review practice questions, and each instructor comes with real-world experience.

“We have a strong group right now of instructors that know what they’re doing and know what they’re talking about,” shares Abraham.

What Makes a Good A&P Tech? It's All in the Hands (and the Head!)

According to Abraham, a good A&P tech needs two things: top-notch hand skills and critical thinking skills.

 "Not everyone can turn a wrench. It takes skill," he says. But that's what the A&P training is for. This program allows for no prior experience as students dive into every aspect of training while learning the theory.

Abraham also explains that developing trust in yourself is important as you go through the program. While a manual is a great guide in making repairs, it won’t always have the answers. That’s why A&P training is important: to help students gain the skills needed to know how to handle different situations, which is crucial to keeping machines functioning safely.

On the Fence? Here's Some Advice from Abraham

When determining what career path is right for you, Abraham stresses this career path isn’t just essential. It’s also fun.

"Once you are elbow-deep doing maintenance, it’s really enjoyable. You have a good crew with you. It’s just fun,” says Abraham. “There’s nothing more fun than turning a wrench on an airplane, especially when you know that airplane is going to fly."

To learn more about the Airframe & Powerplant Technician program, head to our Programs page. Join us at UTI to dive into aviation training hands-on. Who knows, you might just find your wings here!

To get started training for a career where you can work with your hands doing what you’re passionate about, head to our Get Info page.