Next Start

December 4th

Is Becoming an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic a Good Career Plan?

6/24/2024

Are you wondering if becoming an airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanic is a good career move? A&P maintenance is a field with a demand for A&P mechanic skills. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects aviation technician employment to surpass 146,200 by 2032.71 

Did you know that airframe and powerplant mechanics also play an essential role in keeping our skies safe while promoting economic growth and international trade by keeping aircraft in operating condition? If you want to learn more about this specialized career path before preparing for it, keep reading! 

In this blog post, we'll discuss what an A&P mechanic does, why we think it’s a good career path to train for, and how you can get started. 

What Is an A&P Mechanic? 

Airframe and powerplant mechanics are responsible for ensuring safe aircraft performance by carrying out routine maintenance. As generalists, they are well-versed in the entire aircraft structure, from the nose to the tail. 

But their work doesn't stop at maintenance. A&P mechanics also test, diagnose and repair various components and systems within the aircraft, using non-destructive tools to investigate them.

From inspecting and diagnosing mechanical and electrical issues to replacing faulty parts and testing for proper operation, A&P mechanics cover the bases necessary to ensure aircraft can take off and land safely. They have the knowledge and expertise to repair the wings, brakes, electrical, landing and air conditioning systems. With attention to detail, they also maintain records of maintenance and repair, while adhering to strict safety standards.

Reasons to Pursue an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Career 

Airframe and powerplant mechanic skills are in demand across the nation. A report showed that the U.S. was home to over 200,000 aircraft in 2021.

Many aspiring A&P mechanics pursue the path because they want a career they can take pride in. Knowing that they’re contributing their knowledge to a field that needs it while keeping people safe can be an exciting responsibility to fulfill. 

The career also proves a good fit for those who enjoy: 

  • Working with their hands and on their feet 
  • Problem-solving and overcoming challenges
  • Opportunities to travel 
  • Continual chances to learn something new and perfect their skill  

But, what about pay?

When it comes to salary, the BLS reported the median annual salary for aviation maintenance technicians in the United States as $75,020 in May 2023.57 This means half earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area.

How to Train to Become an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic 

According to the BLS, most A&P mechanics enter the field after attending a trade school approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, some mechanics receive training from the military or receive on-the-job training after graduating from high school, although high school graduates may find it more difficult to break into and advance in the industry without further specialized education.

Graduates of FAA-approved schools receive a document recognized by the FAA and are eligible to take professional certification exams as soon as they complete their training.

Universal Technical Institute (UTI) offers an 18-month Airframe & Powerplant program at its Avondale, Arizona; Long Beach, California; Houston, Texas; and Miramar, Florida, campuses and a 20-month program in Canton, Michigan.1,79 Students who successfully complete the 20-month program can continue studying to earn an Associate of Applied Sciences (AAS) degree in Aviation Maintenance!

Our educators worked alongside industry leaders to create a curriculum that prepares students to pursue jobs servicing aircraft after graduation.

When asked what it was like to work at United Airlines while attending school, student Jason Martinez shared, “When I work on these aircraft and I service these aircraft, I’m looking at the things I had just learned the night before in class. It’s a way better learning experience and my education prepared me for it.”

Students like Martinez train hands-on in labs outfitted with technologies and instruments found in the professional world. Our courses cover topics that include: 

  • Non-Destructive Testing
  • Sheet Metal and Welding Familiarization
  • Assembly and Rigging, Airframe Fire Protection
  • Airframe Electrical I and II
  • Navigation and Communication
  • Hydraulics and Pneumatics
  • Reciprocating Engine Operation
  • Propellers
  • Powerplant Lubrication Systems
  • Turbine Engine Designs
  • Non-Metallic Structures
  • Paints and Finishes

Once students graduate from technical school, they can test for FAA mechanic certification. The certification can help candidates pursue their first entry-level role, as the FAA only permits maintenance performed by or under the supervision of a certified mechanic.  

FAQ 

Is Becoming an A&P Mechanic Hard?

Training to become an airframe and powerplant mechanic requires diligence and dedication. However, an industry-aligned training program led by industry professionals can help students prepare to pursue their goals. 

Is Obtaining A&P Certification Worth It? 

Yes. Obtaining an A&P certification may assist aspiring A&P mechanics in their career pursuits. While A&P mechanics can work without certification, all their work then has to be approved by a certified mechanic due to FAA regulations, potentially slowing operations. 

How long do A&P certifications last?

A&P certifications do not expire. However, mechanics who do not work for six months or longer cannot exercise their certification privileges until they’ve worked under another mechanic for at least six months. 

Pursue an Education in Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics

The airframe and powerplant industry is advancing. Students can gain the technical skills and sharpen the traits needed to break into the field at UTI. 

From practicing using industry-standard tools and equipment to becoming qualified to test for certification, we can help students prepare to pursue an entry-level A&P job.128 Get started today by requesting additional information. Once you do, an Admissions Representative will reach out to advise you on the next steps! 

REQUEST MORE INFO 

YOU COULD START YOUR EXCITING NEW CAREER AS A MECHANIC OR TECHNICIAN TODAY.
With classes starting every 3-6 weeks, no need to wait to start your career.
Hands-on training.Get hands on experience with the industry's leading brands.
No Pressure to commit.Get answers to your questions without any obligations.
Or Call Now 800.834.7308

1 ) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2 ) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
57 ) Estimated annual salary is for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians as published in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wages. The Airframe & Powerplant and Aviation Maintenance Technology programs prepare graduates to pursue entry-level careers in the aviation industry or related fields. Graduates are eligible to apply and test for an FAA-issued mechanic certificate. Career options may be limited without an FAA-issued mechanic certificate, and salaries may be lower. Some graduates get jobs within their field of study in positions other than as aviation maintenance technicians, such as turbine technicians or field technicians. Entry-level salaries are lower for graduates. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. Graduates’ achievements vary. Individual circumstances and wages depend on economic factors, personal credentials, work experience, industry certifications, the location of the employer, and their compensation programs. Salary information for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The average annual entry-level salary for persons employed as Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians (49-3011) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is $54,890 (Massachusetts Labor and Workforce Development, May 2022 data https://lmi.dua.eol.mass.gov/lmi/OccupationalEmploymentAndWageAllIndustries/OEWResult?A=01&GA=000025&OG=493011&Dopt=TEXT#). Salary information for North Carolina: The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the hourly median wage for skilled aviation technicians in North Carolina is $31.19 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wages, Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians). The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish entry-level salary data. However, the 25th and 10th percentile of hourly earnings in North Carolina are $27.78 and $21.93, respectively.
71 ) The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that total national employment for Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians will be 148,700 by 2033. See Table 1.2 Occupational projections, 2023–33, and worker characteristics, 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, viewed November 4, 2024. UTI aviation maintenance programs prepare graduates to apply and test for FAA mechanic certification. Graduates who don’t obtain certification may have fewer career opportunities. Some graduates get jobs in aviation or related industries other than as aviation maintenance technicians. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment, salary or FAA certification.
79 ) UTI aviation maintenance programs prepare graduates to apply and test for FAA mechanic certification. Graduates who don’t obtain certification may have fewer career opportunities. Some graduates get jobs in aviation or related industries other than as aviation maintenance technicians. UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment, salary or FAA certification.
128 ) UTI will pay for certain third-party FAA certification exam fees for qualifying students. See catalog for details and requirements.

Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

TRAINING FOR A NEW CAREER STARTS HERE

Take 60 seconds and find out how you can get trained.

By submitting this form, I agree that Universal Technical Institute, Inc., Custom Training Group, Inc., and their affiliates and representatives may email, call, and / or text me with marketing messages about educational programs and services, as well as for school-related communications, at any phone number I provide, including a wireless number, using prerecorded calls or automated technology. I understand that my consent is not required to apply, enroll, or make any purchase. I further understand and agree that I may instead call UTI at 1-800-913-7524 to request admissions information. I understand that if I do submit this form, I may unsubscribe within marketing emails or opt-out of text messages at any time by replying “STOP.” Standard text message and data rates may apply.

By submitting this form, I further understand and agree that all information provided is subject to UTI’s Privacy Policy available at www.uti.edu/privacy-policy and UTI's SMS Terms and Conditions available at www.uti.edu/sms-terms-conditions.