Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Iowa

Aircraft mechanics can be very rewarding, not only in terms of salary and employment opportunities but also in helping candidates turn their passion into a successful career. Anyone in the state of Iowa can become an aircraft mechanic as long as they meet the requirements set by the FAA for their chosen focus areas.

In the guide below, we break down these requirements and possible specialty focus areas. Additionally, we explore possible educational approaches, licensing and certification requirements, and potential training programs to ensure the best education.

The final section of the guide examines the key factors that influence the annual average salary of an aircraft mechanic in Iowa.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Iowa

Below is a step-by-step overview of how to become an aircraft mechanic in Iowa.

Basic Requirements

While not rigid or established by law, employers and training programs for prospective aircraft mechanics in Iowa have the prerogative to set a few requirements before admission can be granted. Sometimes, for example, applicants are expected to have a high school diploma or GED before their admission requests can be favorably considered.

AMTS Graduation

Graduating from an aviation maintenance technician school is the most common approach to becoming an aircraft mechanic. Although the FAA specifies two other pathways, pursuing an accredited program is popular because it enables structured learning, awards degrees, and provides adequate preparation for FAA certification examinations.

These programs last between 18 and 24 months, depending on the specific ratings.

AMTS Alternatives

Other alternatives to graduating from an aviation maintenance technician school include work experience in an FAA-certified repair station or military experience. Candidates require 30 months of experience for those pursuing both airframe and powerplant ratings.

Eighteen months of work experience should be sufficient for individuals interested in only one rating (i.e., either airframe or powerplant).

Employment & Career Advancements

Before they can call themselves professional aircraft mechanics, candidates in Iowa must have qualified for the FAA certification exams through any of the pathways above and successfully passed the examinations. They can then begin to work on acquiring additional certifications to enhance their career opportunities.

We explore both issues in more depth below.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an auto mechanic in Iowa

Licensure & Certification Requirements

The examinations to become certified as an aircraft mechanic in Iowa by the FAA are divided into three major parts. The first part involves written tests to ensure that candidates possess the necessary theoretical knowledge in their chosen specialty.

The second part involves an oral examination conducted by a designated mechanic examiner. Lastly, candidates must also participate in a practical examination designed to assess their hands-on maintenance skills.

Once they pass all three examinations, professionals will be issued their aviation mechanic certificate, which enables them to secure job placement as aircraft maintenance technicians.

Candidates may also choose to pursue other advanced certificates after a few years on the job. These include the Inspection Authorization, Avionics Technician, and FAA Repairman certificates.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Iowa

The schools listed below all have strong reputations for producing successful aircraft mechanics in Iowa.

Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Iowa by city:

• Aircraft mechanic schools in Des Moines

Salary & Career Outlook

An aircraft mechanic’s salary in Iowa can depend on their level of experience. It can also show how far they have come in terms of professional credentials and continuing education.

Professionals who are among the top 10% in the state are typically those who have considered these factors. Data shows that they end the year with an average salary of $104,155.

For those still determining the factors, it is common to earn an annual average salary of $64,809 in the bottom 10% category and $82,159 in the median-earning bracket.

Location can also be quite crucial in determining where professionals fall in the earnings bracket. Recent data shows that Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and Dubuque are the cities with the highest pay for aircraft mechanics in Iowa.

The annual average salaries here are $98,164, $90,799, and $86,008, respectively.