AVIATION TECHNICIAN CAREERS IN A CRITICAL FIELD

Aircraft don’t stay flight-ready on their own.

Aviation mechanics, also known as aviation technicians, are the skilled pros who help keep aircraft operating at their best. You can find them working across a range of industries, from commercial air travel to manufacturing and cargo operations that keep people, products and equipment moving.

At Universal Technical Institute, the Airframe & Powerplant Technician and Aviation Maintenance Technology programs give students the chance to train on aircraft systems and build hands-on skills used in the field. By helping prepare graduates to apply and test for FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification, UTI’s Aviation program supports those who want to pursue an aircraft mechanic career and better understand where this path can lead.^79,128

If hands-on work appeals to you and you’re interested in training for an aircraft mechanic career, explore the aircraft mechanic career outlook and how it may shape your next step.

Aircraft Mechanic Career Outlook

According to the BLS, there's a demand for aviation mechanics. The aircraft mechanic job outlook indicates that total employment in the United States is projected to exceed 144,000 by 2034, reflecting the need for skilled professionals to maintain and repair the nation’s expanding fleet of aircraft.⁷¹

Demand for skilled aviation mechanics

According to the BLS, the aviation industry continues to see a demand for skilled aircraft mechanics and service technicians, with 11,000+ estimated average annual aviation technician job openings in the U.S.⁶⁵

Aviation Mechanic Careers

When you go through aviation technician training, you can gain the skills that can prepare you for an entry-level aviation mechanic job, as well as other aircraft mechanic career paths.

Universal Technical Institute's grads are prepared to pusue entry-level roles upon earning certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).^79,128 As with any industry, over time, technicians may be able to advance in their careers with experience and hard work. Some entry-level and advanced roles could include:⁷⁷

Aircraft maintenance technician (entry-level)

An aircraft maintenance technician job description includes diagnosing mechanical and electrical problems, inspecting aircraft systems and components, repairing or replacing defective parts, and testing equipment to help ensure proper operation. Aircraft maintenance technicians perform scheduled maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and complete inspections in accordance with FAA regulations and approved maintenance procedures.

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 at Universal Technical Institute

The aviation technician programs help prepare students to apply and test for A&P certification from the Federal Aviation Administration.^79,128 UTI has two programs you can choose from:

• Airframe & Powerplant Technician: available at our Avondale, Arizona; Long Beach, California; Miramar, Florida; Canton, Michigan; and Dallas and Houston, Texas campuses.
• Aviation Maintenance Technology: offered at UTI Canton, UTI San Antonio, and UTI Atlanta. This path offers an associate of applied science (AAS) or associate of occupational studies (AOS) degree.

VA benefits may not be available at all locations.

Talk to an Admissions Rep for more information.

Aviation technician courses

Our program is designed to be completed in two years or less and teaches course topics such as:³³

• 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

Graduates are qualified to apply and test for A&P FAA certification. Once certified, they will be ready to apply for entry-level jobs in the aircraft technician field.^79,128

Prepare to test for aviation certification

The Airframe & Powerplant FAA certification is an important credential that shows an aviation technician's ability to inspect, repair and maintain aircraft to meet industry safety and performance standards.

Upon completing UTI's aviation technician training, graduates are prepared to pursue the certification exams.^79,128

Hands-on training with aircraft systems

We offer hands-on training with aircraft systems as part of the Aviation program. Students get to train directly on real aircraft systems like hydraulics, fuel systems and electrical systems. They also learn skills like how to test engines, fix parts and use tools that are common in the aviation industry. The program is designed to give students the skills they need to get ready for FAA certification and pursue an aircraft mechanic career.^79,128

Why Consider an Aircraft Mechanic Career?

In-demand career

The need for qualified aircraft mechanics is projected to remain as air travel continues to expand. With thousands of job openings expected each year, this field offers opportunities for skilled professionals.⁶⁵

Career opportunities

Aviation is a broad industry, which means the skills you gain could open doors to opportunities across many sectors. From commercial airlines to private fleets and manufacturers, aviation technicians are needed in a variety of settings.

Pride in keeping aircraft safe and reliable

Aircraft mechanics play a direct role in ensuring the safety of passengers and crews. Knowing their work keeps aircraft reliable and flight-ready provides a sense of pride and purpose in a technician’s aircraft mechanic career.