Aircraft Mechanic Schools in West Virginia

Residents of West Virginia who wish to become aircraft mechanics must understand that they will need to develop both technical and transferable skills. Technical skills can range from knowledge of troubleshooting and documentation to composite materials and other related areas.

Transferable attributes, such as dexterity, problem-solving, effective communication, and reading skills, are all absolutely non-negotiable. In the following guide, we break down everything an individual in West Virginia needs to know to acquire these skills and establish their career as an aircraft mechanic on the best possible foundation.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in West Virginia

The following information is essential for candidates to know to start a successful career as an aircraft mechanic in West Virginia.

Basic Requirements

When pursuing a career as an aircraft mechanic in West Virginia, having a high school diploma or a GED can help candidates establish a strong foundation by enabling them to secure admission to the best schools. Possessing transferable attributes such as effective communication, comprehension, and critical thinking skills can also give candidates a significant edge very early in their careers.

Educational Options

There are three broad educational options for becoming an aircraft mechanic in West Virginia. They include:

Academic Programs

Most aspiring aircraft mechanics begin their careers by enrolling in an academic program. This route allows students to learn in a structured environment and acquire both theoretical and practical skills.

Some aviation maintenance programs can be completed in around 18 months, while some take 24 months. Candidates can also earn a certificate or an associate’s degree to boost their potential.

On-the-Job Programs

The FAA permits individuals to gain hands-on experience at a certified repair station under the supervision of a licensed aircraft mechanic.

For those opting for on-the-job training, 18 months of experience are required for either an airframe or powerplant certification, while 30 months are needed to obtain both. Veterans must also meet the same training requirements—18 months for one certification or 30 months for both.

Military Programs

Military veterans with relevant experience can also qualify to take the certification exams. The Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council is responsible for providing aircraft mechanic training and education to service members.

Explore trades with similar paths:

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

The FAA handles certification and authorization to practice as an aircraft mechanic in West Virginia at the federal level. Candidates don’t have to worry about registering with a state agency before they can practice professionally.

However, they do have to worry about passing the FAA certification examinations. If they wish to practice in both categories, they must also pass both the airframe and powerplant exams.

Additionally, each exam includes a written and a practical aspect, along with an oral test administered by a designated expert.

Finally, after passing all these examinations and acquiring three years of on-the-job experience, aircraft mechanics can earn more advanced credentials, including the Inspection Authorization credential.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in West Virginia

Below are some top training programs to consider for aspiring aircraft mechanics in West Virginia.

Explore aircraft mechanic schools in West Virginia by city:

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Salary & Career Outlook

As an aircraft mechanic in West Virginia, it is common to start a career with an annual average salary of $70,525. Candidates will quickly be able to improve their returns as they acquire more experience, enhance their expertise, and accumulate additional credentials.

Ultimately, they will be able to make an annual average salary of $80,763, putting them among the median earners. As they continue to optimize key factors, aircraft mechanics in West Virginia can earn an annual average salary of up to $92,488 in the highest-paying category.

Candidates may also work on optimizing their location for the same effect. Currently, Cheat Lake is where aircraft mechanics in West Virginia earn the highest average annual salary in the state, at around $88,491. Also notable are Bridgeport and Charleston, with annual average salaries of $81,983 and $80,294, respectively.