To work on an aircraft as an aircraft mechanic, an interested individual must attend and complete an approved aviation maintenance training program. Thankfully, candidates in Missouri will be glad to know there is no shortage of such programs to consider.
While the guide below outlines some of the best and most notable of these institutions, it continues beyond there. We also discuss the steps involved in starting an aircraft mechanic career in Missouri, the possible licensure and certification requirements, and the potential salary to expect.
When candidates finish this article, they will have what they need to launch a successful aircraft mechanic career and take advantage of specialization and advancement opportunities.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Missouri
Below are some key steps in launching a successful aircraft mechanic career in Missouri.
Step 1: Preparatory Steps
There are two ways to qualify for the FAA examinations (all candidates must take to become certified aircraft mechanics in Missouri). The first is through the civilian route, while the second is through the military route.
As a civilian hoping to become an aircraft mechanic in Missouri, you just have a high school diploma or GED, be fluent in English, and be at least 18 years old. From there, you must complete a training program and acquire practical experience while learning.
As someone in the military looking to become an aircraft mechanic, you must complete the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council Training Course and then proceed to pass the relevant FAA licensing exams.
Step 2: Graduate from a Training Program
Meeting the requirements in the first step should be enough to help civilian candidates secure admission into a training program. Individuals must also choose a training program that the FAA has approved.
All of the entries on the list below meet this requirement.
Furthermore, aviation maintenance is typically divided into Airframe (A) and Powerplant (P). Candidates may choose either of these as an area of specialization, and those who do not wish to specialize may obtain training in both areas.
Step 3: Passing the Airframe and Powerplant Exams
The FAA tests for future aircraft mechanics in Missouri (and the rest of the country) include 60 written questions. However, candidates must also be prepared to complete a practical demonstration under the supervision of a licensed expert.
Candidates who specialize in an area only have to take the exams about that specialty area. In contrast, those without specialization must complete both the Airframe and Powerplant exams (including written and practical sessions).
The exam is available for both civilian and military candidates.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Missouri will be glad to know they don’t have to register or receive an additional license/certification from the state before they can start applying for jobs and practicing professionally. The license acquired by passing the FAA Airframe and Powerplant examination is enough to become a legitimate professional.
While the scope of an aircraft mechanic’s duties is large and complex, they are limited to a certain extent. Candidates must acquire the Inspection Authorization credential for even more advanced repair projects.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Missouri
Future aircraft mechanics in Missouri may consider the top-class destinations below for a complete training curriculum.
State Technical College of Missouri
Linn, MO Campus + Online
State Technical College of Missouri in Linn offers FAA-approved aviation maintenance technology training and boasts a 93% job placement rate.
Tuition
$215 - $430 per CreditContact
(573) 897-5000
info@statetechmo.edu
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Kansas City, MO Campus + Online
Students at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance are trained to work on airframes and powerplants, including specialized topics related to aircraft components and systems such as hydraulic systems, instrumentation, propellers, warning signals, piston engines, and environmental systems.
Email: infoaviation@aviationmaintenance.edu
Tuition
$47,410 - $50,510 per ProgramContact
(816) 753-9920
Email in Bio
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO Campus + Online
The University of Central Missouri’s Department of Aviation offers students the opportunity to attain expertise in Aviation Maintenance Technology.
Tuition
$285 - $733 per CreditContact
(660) 543-8411
jgamble@ucmo.edu
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Salary & Career Outlook
As a fresh aircraft mechanic in Missouri, the annual average salary to look forward to is $82,287 - on par with the national average. Missouri City is the highest-paying city in Missouri to practice as an aircraft mechanic, with an annual average salary of $100,840.
Perryville follows with an annual average salary of $83,992, St. Louis with an annual average salary of $82,839, and Kansas City with an annual average salary of $81,909.