Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Chicago would be glad to know that the city remains one of the best places to pursue a career in the field. Not only do aircraft mechanics in Chicago receive an annual average salary that can compete with anywhere else in the country, but they also get to enjoy incredible job security and the opportunity to grow and advance their careers when they want to.
To begin the journey as an aircraft mechanic in Chicago – and indeed anywhere else – one of the most important steps is to find an accredited training program to enroll in. In case you’ve been looking for the best aircraft mechanic schools in the area, you have come to the right place.
Below you’ll find a list containing some of the most notable options to consider, along with a concise note on what makes them stand out.
How To Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Chicago
Earlier, we mentioned that one of the most important steps to become an aircraft mechanic in Chicago is to enroll in an approved training institution. While this remains true, it is not the only possibility available to interested candidates.
Those who do not wish to enroll in a formal training program can choose instead to acquire training on the job. Those who do so must work under the supervision of a licensed aircraft mechanic for at least 18 months before they can become licensed themselves.
Military personnel who have experience in the field may also apply to take the licensure test. Generally, however, for most people, going through an approved training program remains the most popular alternative.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Chicago, Illinois
Now that we’re familiar with the general pathways involved in becoming an aircraft mechanic, below are some of the best programs to consider in and around Chicago, Illinois.
1. Lewis University
1 University Parkway, Romeoville Illinois 60446
Lewis University in Romeoville offers a high-quality aviation maintenance program founded in 1932. The program has provided numerous successful professionals in the field and continues to produce more thanks to the wonderful facilities and high-quality instructors.
Approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, this program’s graduates can take both their airframe and powerplant license tests. The school also offers an opportunity for working adults to earn their licenses while working by taking lectures online and meeting for the corresponding lab sessions five times a week beginning by 5:30 p.m.
Lewis University’s aviation maintenance program claims to be the only one that offers this flexibility.
Graduates can work as aviation maintenance technicians, aircraft maintenance directors, aircraft maintenance supervisors, and more.
2. Aviation Institute of Maintenance
3711 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60609, USA
Aviation Institute of Maintenance is a popular academy that provides training for aspiring aircraft mechanics nationwide. Their campus in Chicago offers an Aviation Maintenance Technician program that adheres to the standards set by the academy nationwide.
The program is certified by the FAA and the school itself is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
For students who wish to receive financial assistance, they may do so by applying for the aid program or the military tuition assistance initiative.
Classes take place during the day and in the evening and the school also offers job placement assistance for graduates.
Explore detailed steps and certification requirements:
3. Southwest Illinois College
500 Carlyle Avenue, Belleville Illinois 62221
Southwest Illinois College is another veritable destination for aspiring aircraft mechanics in the state. The school boasts of a state-of-the-art training facility where students can earn a degree in aviation maintenance under the tutelage of experienced instructors.
The school is one of the few training programs in the entire country where students can enroll in an Airframe and Powerplant certificate program that can be completed in just one year.
4. Southern Illinois University Carbondale
665 N Airport Rd, Murphysboro Illinois 62966
Southern Illinois University Carbondale has been in existence since 1960 and has produced successful graduates in several areas of aviation and avionics. The school boasts of experienced faculty with beautiful facilities and an internship program that is one of the best in the industries.
Here, students get to earn a degree in aviation management while taking advantage of the school’s financial aid initiative if they wish to do so. Southern Illinois University also has campuses in 3 other locations across the nation.
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