Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Montana

A career as an aircraft mechanic in Montana is ideal for anyone who loves aviation and enjoys working with complex technical systems. Of course, before they can consider themselves professional aircraft mechanics, candidates must first acquire the relevant skills.

Since aviation is a highly important and highly regulated industry, candidates must also meet requirements set by major regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration.

The following guide outlines the key steps to develop technical expertise as an aircraft mechanic in Montana and to meet federal certification requirements. We also explore top programs and annual average salary potential.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Montana

The steps below are needed to become an aircraft mechanic in Montana.

Preparing for Training

Candidates in Montana may obtain valuable credentials, such as a high school diploma or GED, to prepare for aviation maintenance training. It is also beneficial to start cultivating transferable skills, such as reading comprehension and critical thinking, as early as possible.

Attending an Approved Program

Most aircraft mechanics start their careers by attending an academic program, but this is not the only path. The FAA allows prospective aircraft mechanics to receive necessary training at a repair station under the supervision of a licensed aircraft mechanic.

Veterans with military experience are also allowed to take the certification examinations.

For individuals seeking the on-the-job approach, 18 months of training are required for either the airframe or powerplant specification, while 30 months are needed to acquire both.

Veterans also need 18 months of training in one rating or 30 months of training in both.

Specialty & Ratings

The FAA specifies two distinctions for aircraft mechanics. The first group comprises those with an airframe rating, which allows them to work on an aircraft’s external parts. In contrast, the second group comprises those who hold a powerplant rating, which allows them to work on an aircraft’s engine and internal components.

Candidates may enroll in programs that focus on just one aspect of these specialty areas or combine both. Below, we discuss the certification requirements for candidates pursuing these ratings.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an auto mechanic in Montana

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Aircraft mechanics in Montana don’t need a state license or approval to begin their careers, as FAA certification is sufficient to secure employment. For FAA certification examinations, candidates should be prepared to take an oral, written, and practical exam.

Additionally, individuals will be able to sit for these exams in their chosen specializations. Those pursuing both the airframe and powerplant ratings must pass the relevant examinations in each area.

After 3 more years of experience, aircraft mechanics in Montana will be eligible to pursue the more advanced Inspection Authorization (IA).

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Montana

Below are some of the top programs for individuals seeking to become aircraft mechanics in Montana.

Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Montana by city:

• Aircraft mechanic schools in Billings

Salary & Career Outlook

The highest-paying cities for aircraft mechanics in the state of Montana are as follows:

• Belgrade, with an annual average salary of $100,840;
• Butte, with an annual average salary of $90,677;
• Saint Ignatius, with an annual average salary of $88,025 and
• Great Falls has an average annual salary of $83,936.

While location is important in determining professionals’ annual returns in this field, it is not the only factor. Factors such as experience level, professional credentials, and work environment are just as important, if not more so.

Without focusing on any one factor, aircraft mechanics in Montana can be grouped into three broad categories. The lowest-paid are in the first category, with an average annual return of approximately $56,011.

In the second category, the average annual salary is around $75,373. In contrast, the top 10% in the last category earn an average annual salary of at least $101,428.