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.
*Program coming to San Antonio and Atlanta pending FAA approval. 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.
AIRCRAFT MECHANIC CAREER FAQS
According to the BLS, there’s a demand for aviation mechanics. In fact, total aviation technician employment in the United States is expected to exceed 144,000 by 2034.71
A common path is to complete aviation technician training and prepare to apply and test for Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). UTI’s aviation programs are designed to help students build the hands-on skills needed to pursue this path.79,128
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), total aviation technician employment is projected to exceed 144,000 by 2034.71 This reflects the ongoing need for skilled professionals who can inspect, maintain and repair aircraft.
Aircraft mechanics diagnose electrical and mechanical problems, repair aircraft components, replace defective parts and test aircraft systems. They also perform scheduled maintenance, inspections and repairs according to FAA regulations.
A&P certification refers to Airframe & Powerplant certification from the FAA. It is an important credential that shows an aviation technician has the knowledge and skills needed to inspect, repair and maintain aircraft to industry safety and performance standards.
Begin Your Aircraft Mechanic Career Path
Flight-ready aircraft start with skilled technicians. Universal Technical Institute’s Aviation program, which can be completed in two years or less, is designed to help students build hands-on experience, prepare to pursue FAA certification and work toward entry-level roles in the aviation field.79,128
If you’d like to learn more about training for a career in aviation repair and maintenance, click the button below or call 800-834-7408.79 We’ll reach out ASAP to answer your questions!
Ready to start training? Apply now.