Aircraft mechanics are responsible for maintaining and repairing aircraft, including airplanes and helicopters. In the state of Nebraska, individuals with a passion for aviation can quickly become aircraft mechanics by pursuing one of the FAA-approved pathways to certification.
The following guide explains all of these pathways and what candidates can expect with each option. We also discuss some other steps involved in launching a career as an aircraft mechanic in Nebraska, including admission requirements, certification examinations, and career opportunities.
Readers will also gain a clear understanding of what to expect regarding their yearly returns once they secure employment in this field.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Nebraska
The following is a step-by-step guide to launching a career as an aviation mechanic in Nebraska.
Foundational Requirements
Starting a career as an aircraft mechanic with a high school diploma or a GED is a more enjoyable option. Foundational knowledge of sciences and engineering, along with transferable attributes such as comprehension, problem-solving, and communication skills, is also very important.
Educational Pathways
The following are the three major educational pathways to becoming an aircraft mechanic in Nebraska.
Academic Institutions
The first educational pathway to becoming an aircraft mechanic in Nebraska is to attend an academic institution accredited by the FAA to provide training in aviation maintenance technology. In an upcoming section, we analyze a few of the best institutions that meet this requirement.
It is also worth noting that the program length may range from 18 to 24 months, depending on several factors, including the specific rating that a student wishes to earn.
Work Experience
The second educational pathway to becoming an aircraft mechanic in Nebraska involves gaining work experience, typically through employment at an FAA-certified repair station and learning under the guidance of a certified aircraft mechanic. Time spent gathering work experience must reflect both observation and actual practice.
Military Pathway
Lastly, candidates may launch their aircraft mechanic careers in Nebraska through a military pathway if they have already spent some time working on military aircraft while in service. Of course, those who choose this approach must provide proof of their work experience to qualify for the certification examination.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Candidates in Nebraska can start working as fully qualified aircraft mechanics once they pass their certification examinations administered by the Federal Aviation Administration. This means that they will not be required to register with a state agency or obtain state approval to carry out their duties.
The FAA exam is divided into three major parts: the written test, the oral exam, and the practical exam. The written test assesses the candidate’s theoretical knowledge, while the oral examination, conducted by a designated expert, is equally crucial.
Lastly, the practical exam is where candidates actually demonstrate their maintenance and repair skills through hands-on demonstrations.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Nebraska
Below are some of the schools in Nebraska that offer high-quality aviation maintenance training.
Western Nebraska Community College
Alliance, NE Campus Only
Western Nebraska Community College offers a comprehensive aviation maintenance program designed to prepare students for certification and employment in the field.
Tuition
$109 - $128 per CreditContact
(308) 254-7448
juliusj1@wncc.edu
State Tech College
Linn, MO Campus Only
State Technical College in Linn provides a highly practical aircraft mechanic training program that immerses students in real-world learning experiences with various aircraft, including jets, helicopters, and single-engine planes.
Tuition
$225 - $580 per CreditContact
(573) 897-5000
admissions@statetechmo.edu
Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Nebraska by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Due to their typically less experienced status, fresh aircraft mechanics in Nebraska may earn an annual average salary of around $70,538, which is in line with the lowest-paid in the state. With time, more experience, and other relevant factors in their favor, professionals in the state may scale their earnings to around $99,748, which is what the top 10% of aircraft mechanics in Nebraska make at the end of the year.
Unsurprisingly, the majority of aircraft mechanics in the state will not fall at either end of the salary spectrum. Instead, they will be in the median category, making around $83,881 per year.
Location is another key factor in determining these figures. Kearney and Omaha have the highest annual average salaries for aircraft mechanics in Nebraska, at $91,825 and $83,669, respectively.
Those who work at Offutt AFB may expect an annual average salary of $82,313.
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