Advice from the Voice of Experience

The world of aviation maintenance is complex and unforgiving of errors; it can, however, be profoundly rewarding, both in job satisfaction and compensation, when correctly approached. The approach, then, is the key to success. So we've polled some of the most highly regarded, successful mechanics we know, whose own careers had humble beginnings and meteoric ascents into leadership positions and beyond, to equip you with the knowledge to thrive in this demanding industry. Up for a challenge? Then let's go!

Licensure

To the uninitiated, getting the Airframe and Powerplant license may seem like an immense hurdle to overcome when unlicensed opportunities abound at the entry-level. If you're ready to enter the workforce but don't yet have your license, these can be a great stepping stone, but the importance of becoming licensed cannot be overstated. Without a license, advancement opportunities are nearly non-existent, and licensure is a minimum requirement for many of the most sought-after jobs in the industry. Fortunately, many employers offer programs to help you get your license while you work. This is at the top of the list for a reason! Get licensed!

Learn

Throughout your aviation career, whether you're an A&P mechanic, structures mechanic, avionics technician, NDT technician, or inspector, learning is a constant process. You'll learn maintenance techniques, terminology, systems knowledge, different airframes and engines, FAA regulations, your employer's processes and policies, and the list goes on. The key is to keep a mindset of learning, and use the experience of your peers.

Prove Yourself

Aviation maintenance, as an industry, is a smaller group of people than you might perceive. While the number of maintainers is staggering, you'll find that after a few years in the industry, you'll have contacts within numerous organizations, and you'll realize that your reputation begins to precede you, for better or worse. In that case, you'll want to ensure it's the former. Establish yourself as a skilled worker, with a great work ethic, a positive attitude, and a teachable disposition, and you're on the fast track to success. When you're first starting out in aviation, or starting a new job, you have something to prove, so prove it well!

Know Your Value

Your labor is worth money. The exact value is up to you, and the market, to decide. Don't get caught in a situation where you are undercompensated and don't know to change it. With employers struggling to hire competent talent, there's never been a better time to negotiate a fair price for your wages. Do your research and go in prepared to ask for a fair offer. The current market puts the impetus on the employer, not the laborer, so don't underplay your hand. Websites like bls.gov are great jumping off points to determine fair wages in the industry.

Don't Stagnate

Don't be the mechanic retiring at 70 years old, never having advanced beyond entry level for your entire career. It is easy to get complacent in a position and let inertia carry you to mediocrity. Get licensed, if you aren't already, pursue some professional development certifications, and work towards replacing your boss. And then do it again. No room to grow in your current company? Look elsewhere. Your career is what you make it.

This article is not intended to address job function mandates, like following tech data or company policy. You should, of course, do what it takes to keep the flying public safe, the aircraft you maintain airworthy and compliant, and your livelihood intact. But when you want to build your career and not just a paycheck, be sure to reference this article, and more, from AviationJobsGuy.com.