There are many reasons to consider becoming an aircraft mechanic. Not only does the profession involve working with high-end aircraft that too many signify some of the very best achievements in engineering, but it also involves analyzing and understanding some complex systems.
And, of course, let’s not forget the fact that being an aircraft mechanic comes with impressive compensation and ample opportunity for growth.
So yes, there are numerous reasons to become an aircraft mechanic. But how exactly does one go about it in the state of Arizona? Well, the guide below includes everything you need to know in this regard.
How To Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Arizona
The most important step in becoming an aircraft mechanic in Arizona is to get certified by the FAA. But to do so, you must fulfill one of the following requirements.
- Obtain training on the job through a recognized company and amass the preliminary work hours specified by the FAA.
- Obtain training on the job through a recognized military unit and amass the preliminary work hours specified by the FAA.
- Obtain training through a formal education program.
Usually, the third option is the most popular one. Not only does it provide a highly structured path, but it is also quite fast and provides all the information you will need to pass the FAA tests.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Arizona
In case you too would like to become an aircraft mechanic in Arizona by obtaining training through a formal program, you’ll be glad to know that Arizona boasts of some of the best aircraft mechanic programs around. Below are some of the most prominent.
1. Pima Community College
PCC Aviation Technology Center,
7211 S. Park Avenue Tucson Arizona
Pima Community College in Tucson offers students the chance to become certified aircraft mechanics through one of the most dynamic and respected programs in the country.
With a highly specialized Airframe and Powerplant course approved by the FAA, students get to experience real-world, hands-on scenarios on commercial transport aircraft.
Apart from the technical aspect of the training, the program also teaches teamwork, safety, and situational awareness.
2. Chandler-Gilbert Community College
2626 East Pecos Road Chandler Arizona
Graduates of Chandler-Gilbert Community College leave with a certificate of completion and the satisfaction of having received all the preparation necessary to pass the written and oral aspects of the Airframe and Powerplant tests administered by the FAA.
Among other things, students who graduate from this program will be able to utilize inspection and diagnostic tools, service, repair, and overhaul aircraft engines, and follow industry regulatory standards.
3. Americas Best AMT
Goodyear Airport,
1300 S Litchfield Rd, Goodyear Arizona
One of the top tier schools for A&P certification training in Arizona, Americas Best AMT is located in Goodyear and offers a fast-track training program with high ratings and a very lovely ground for aspiring aircraft mechanics.
The school has been in operation since 2014 and has produced more than 4,500 successful graduates.
4. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
3700 Willow Creek Rd Prescott, Arizona
The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is located in the mountain city of Prescott and offers a handful of rigorous programs for aviation enthusiasts, including courses for aspiring airplane pilots, helicopter pilots, and of course, aircraft mechanics.
The school is known to attract some of the brightest minds in the state and companies often send their employees to acquire training here.
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Licensure and Certification Requirements
Once you’re done with the training and education aspect of the process, the next step to becoming an aviation mechanic is to become certified officially.
One thing that’s worth noting in this regard is that, unlike most professions, certification for aviation mechanics or aviation maintenance technicians is not carried out by any particular state body but by the FAA.
Now the FAA specifies two distinct ratings for certifying aircraft mechanics. The first is the Airframe (A) rating, while the second is the Powerplant (P) rating. It is possible to get certified for both ratings at once. This is usually referred to as an A&P certificate.
Among other things, to become A&P certified, you must be 18 years old, be able to read, write and speak English, and must have gone through a recognized training program as highlighted earlier.
Salary and Job Outlook
Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Arizona can look forward to earning a salary of around $67,113 every year. Entry-level professionals who are just starting out may fall a little short of this number and end up with a salary of around $45,328.
But with time, they can look forward to surpassing even the average salary and earn as high as $99,370.
Along with the base salary, aircraft mechanics also enjoy perks such as paid time off, tuition reimbursement by companies, retirement plans, health insurance, 401k, and vision insurance, among other things.
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