To work on aircraft as an aircraft mechanic, an individual must complete an approved aviation maintenance training program. Thankfully, candidates in Missouri will be glad to know there is no shortage of such programs to consider.
While the guide below outlines some of the best and most notable of these institutions, it continues beyond them. We also discuss the steps to start a career as an aircraft mechanic in Missouri, potential licensure and certification requirements, and expected salaries.
When candidates finish this article, they will have what they need to launch a successful aircraft mechanic career and take advantage of specialization and advancement opportunities.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Missouri
Below are key steps to launch a successful career as an aircraft mechanic in Missouri.
Step 1: Preparatory Steps
There are two ways to qualify for the FAA examinations (all candidates must take to become certified aircraft mechanics in Missouri). The first is through the civilian route, while the second is through the military route.
As a civilian hoping to become an aircraft mechanic in Missouri, you have a high school diploma or GED, be fluent in English, and be at least 18 years old. From there, you must complete a training program and gain practical experience.
Military candidates may qualify based on documented maintenance training experience, and then pursue FAA testing (requirements vary)
Step 2: Graduate from a Training Program
Meeting the requirements in the first step should be sufficient for civilian candidates to secure admission to a training program. Individuals must also choose a training program approved by the FAA.
All of the entries on the list below meet this requirement.
Furthermore, aviation maintenance is typically divided into Airframe (A) and Powerplant (P). Candidates may choose either specialization, and those who do not wish to specialize may receive training in both areas.
Step 3: Passing the Airframe and Powerplant Exams
The FAA tests for future aircraft mechanics in Missouri (and across the country) include knowledge exams, as well as oral and practical testing administered by FAA-designated examiners.
Candidates who specialize in a particular area only need to take exams in that specialty. In contrast, those without specialization must complete both the Airframe and Powerplant exams (including written and practical sessions).
The exam is available for both civilian and military candidates.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Missouri will be glad to know they don’t need to register with the state or obtain an additional license or certification before they can start applying for jobs and practicing professionally. The license obtained by passing the FAA Airframe and Powerplant examination is sufficient to become a licensed professional.
While the scope of an aircraft mechanic’s duties is large and complex, they are limited to a certain extent. Candidates must obtain the Inspection Authorization credential to undertake more advanced repair projects.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Missouri
Future aircraft mechanics in Missouri may consider the top-class destinations below for a complete training curriculum.
State Technical College of Missouri
Linn, MO Campus + Online
State Technical College of Missouri in Linn offers FAA-approved aviation maintenance technology training and boasts a 93% job placement rate.
Tuition
$215 - $430 per CreditContact
(573) 897-5000
info@statetechmo.edu
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Kansas City, MO Campus + Online
Students at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance are trained to work on airframes and powerplants, including specialized topics related to aircraft components and systems such as hydraulic systems, instrumentation, propellers, warning signals, piston engines, and environmental systems.
Email: infoaviation@aviationmaintenance.edu
Tuition
$47,410 - $50,510 per ProgramContact
(816) 753-9920
Email in Bio
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO Campus + Online
The University of Central Missouri’s Department of Aviation offers students the opportunity to attain expertise in Aviation Maintenance Technology.
Tuition
$285 - $733 per CreditContact
(660) 543-8411
jgamble@ucmo.edu
Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Missouri by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
As a fresh aircraft mechanic in Missouri, the annual average salary to look forward to is $82,287 - on par with the national average. Missouri City is the highest-paying city in Missouri for aircraft mechanics, with an average annual salary of $100,840.
Perryville has an average annual salary of $83,992; St. Louis, $82,839; and Kansas City, $81,909.




