Aircraft Mechanic Schools in North Dakota

There is no limit to what individuals in North Dakota can achieve as aircraft mechanics. Apart from working as entry-level professionals, candidates can rapidly grow their expertise in just a few years to the point where they are able to sign off on large repairs and even manage their aircraft repair stations.

The journey to achieve all of these objectives starts with proper foundational education. Fortunately, there is no shortage of destinations offering such training in North Dakota.

Below, we outline the general steps required to become an aircraft mechanic in North Dakota, including top training programs, certification requirements, annual average salary projections, and other relevant details.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in North Dakota

Successful aircraft mechanics in North Dakota typically start their careers by following the steps below.

Attend a Technical School

It is usually common for aircraft mechanics in North Dakota to attend a technical school to start their aviation mechanic career. These schools excel at helping candidates develop essential skills and prepare for certification examinations.

Usually, they provide 400 hours of training in aircraft fundamentals and 750 hours of specialized classes. The training may last 18 to 24 months, depending on factors such as the award or degree in sight and specialty classifications.

Specialty Classifications

An aircraft mechanic may choose to specialize as an airframe expert or a powerplant specialist. Airframe experts are knowledgeable about an aircraft’s external structure and construction, while powerplant specialists are responsible for maintaining and repairing every part of a plane’s engine and fuel system.

It is common for professionals to focus on both specialty areas rather than choosing only one.

On-the-Job Education

As an alternative to attending a technical school, candidates can learn everything there is to know “on the job” and qualify for FAA certification in this way. They require at least 18 months of work experience to qualify for certification in a single rating.

Candidates pursuing both airframe and powerplant ratings must have at least 30 months of work experience in the field.

Employment and Career Growth

Many training institutions leverage their connections and alumni networks to help candidates secure direct job placement. Once employed, aircraft mechanics must continually improve their knowledge and pursue more advanced credentials to assume complex duties.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become a CNC machinist in North Dakota

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Certification for aircraft mechanics in North Dakota is carried out solely at the federal level, eliminating the need for state registration or licensing. Candidates who have met the requirements above may begin the process by passing the certification examination.

During their examination, candidates are expected to take the written test first, followed by the practical test. They will also have to pass an oral test administered by a designated examiner.

Candidates have several opportunities throughout their careers to earn even more advanced certifications. One of these is the Inspection Authorized credential, which gives an aircraft mechanic the authority to approve flights for takeoff.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in North Dakota

All of the entries below are notable for their strong aircraft mechanic training programs, which allow students from North Dakota to pursue their education.

Explore aircraft mechanic schools in North Dakota by city:

• Aircraft mechanic schools in Fargo

Salary & Career Outlook

Without considering any specific factor, the general annual average salary for an aircraft mechanic in North Dakota is $81,988. Of course, professionals can optimize their returns to improve their annual earnings.

By doing so, aircraft mechanics in the state can earn approximately $111,301, which places them in the top 10% of the salary range. Those who start below the median figure can make an annual average salary of $60,395, putting them among the lowest earners.

Gaining more experience, acquiring high-level credentials, changing work environments, and relocating can help professionals enhance their returns. Currently, Dickinson, Mandan, and Fargo are the cities in North Dakota where aircraft mechanics earn the highest salaries.

The figures here are $106,090, $84,853, and $81,988, respectively.