Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Montana

A career as an aircraft mechanic in Montana is ideal for anyone who loves aviation and enjoys working with complex technical systems. Of course, before they can consider themselves professional aircraft mechanics, candidates must first put themselves in a position to acquire relevant skills.

Since aviation is a highly important and highly regulated industry, candidates must also meet requirements set by major regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration.

The following guide outlines the key aspects of developing technical expertise as an aircraft mechanic in Montana and meeting federal certification requirements. We also explore top programs and annual average salary potential.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Montana

The steps below are needed to become an aircraft mechanic in Montana.

Preparing for Training

Candidates in Montana may prepare valuable certificates and credentials, such as a high school diploma or GED, to prepare for aviation maintenance training. It is also beneficial to start cultivating transferable skills, such as reading comprehension and critical thinking, as early as possible.

Attending an Approved Program

The majority of aircraft mechanics start their careers by attending an academic program, but this is not the only approach. The FAA allows prospective aircraft mechanics to receive necessary training at a repair station under the supervision of a licensed aircraft mechanic.

Veterans with military experience are also allowed to take the certification examinations.

For individuals seeking the on-the-job approach, 18 months of training are required for either the airframe or powerplant specification, while 30 months are needed to acquire both.

Veterans also need 18 months of training in one rating or 30 months of training in both.

Specialty & Ratings

The FAA specifies two distinctions for aircraft mechanics. The first group consists of those who hold an airframe rating, enabling them to work on the external parts of an aircraft, while the second group comprises those who hold a powerplant rating, allowing them to work on the engine and internal components of an aircraft.

Candidates may enroll in programs that focus on just one aspect of these specialty areas or combine both. Below, we discuss the certification requirements for candidates pursuing these ratings.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an auto mechanic in Montana

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Aircraft mechanics in Montana don’t need a state license or approval to begin their professional careers, as certification from the FAA is sufficient to secure employment. Concerning the FAA certification examinations, candidates should be prepared to participate in an oral, written, and practical test.

Additionally, individuals will be able to sit for these exams in their chosen specializations. Those who are going for both the airframe and powerplant ratings must pass relevant examinations in each area.

Subsequently, after working for 3 more years, aircraft mechanics in Montana will be able to pursue the more advanced Inspection Authorized credential.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Montana

Below are some of the top programs for individuals seeking to become aircraft mechanics in Montana.

Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Montana by city:

• Aircraft mechanic schools in Billings

Salary & Career Outlook

The highest-paying cities for aircraft mechanics in the state of Montana are as follows:

• Belgrade, with an annual average salary of $100,840;
• Butte, with an annual average salary of $90,677;
• Saint Ignatius, with an annual average salary of $88,025 and
• Great Falls, with an annual average salary of $83,936.

As important as location is in determining the annual returns of professionals in this field, it is not the only important factor. Factors such as experience level, professional credentials, and work environment are just as important, if not more so.

Without focusing on any one of these factors, aircraft mechanics in Montana can be divided into three broad categories. The lowest-paid is in the first category, with an annual average return of around $56,011.

In the second category, the average annual salary is around $75,373. In contrast, the top 10% in the last category earn an annual average salary of around $101,428 or more.