Several skills must be possessed before aspiring aircraft mechanics in Tennessee can secure employment and call themselves professional. These include an eye for detail, optimal dexterity, physical coordination, and excellent communication skills.
In addition to these skills, interested individuals must also complete specific educational and certification requirements before they can finally obtain their aircraft mechanic license.
We provide more details regarding all of these below.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Tennessee
Below are the key considerations involved in becoming an aircraft mechanic in Tennessee.
Choose a Training Option
The first significant step in becoming an aircraft mechanic in Tennessee is to choose your training route. According to the FAA, candidates can qualify for certification by attending an accredited program or obtaining training on the job. It is also possible to prepare for the credential exams by completing a military personnel training program.
Accredited Training Programs
Most accredited training programs take between 18 and 24 months to complete. They usually focus on subjects such as electricity, physics, aircraft operation, technical drawings, fuel systems, and turbine engines.
On-the-Job Training
On the other hand, to qualify through on-the-job training, candidates aiming for one specialization certification must acquire 18 months of work experience. Those who are going for both specializations must receive 30 months of experience.
Military Personnel
Military personnel may also qualify for the FAA certification exam without following the abovementioned steps. Instead, they must only complete the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council training course.
The FAA Certification Exams
The FAA’s certification exams include an oral and practical knowledge test session. The knowledge session includes written questions about general aviation mechanics, airframe, and powerplant standards. The oral test is practically an interview by a designated mechanic examiner. Lastly, candidates must also complete a practical test where they will showcase their acquired skills.
Securing Employment
After completing the steps above, aspiring aircraft mechanics in Tennessee may go on to create a resume and start applying for jobs. Individuals may increase their chances by joining professional organizations such as the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association or the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association. This will allow them to meet other members and learn about available positions.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
In Tennessee, aspiring aircraft mechanics are not expected to register or receive a license from any state board. Only a permit from the Federal Aviation Administration is required to start applying for jobs. Candidates will receive their airframe and powerplant licenses once they complete the three aspects of the FAA exams.
After spending three years on the job, candidates may also choose to acquire the Inspection Authorization credential. This will give them the authority to carry out advanced aircraft inspections and approve significant repairs.
Candidates with the IA certification can also operate aircraft repair stations.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Tennessee
Below are some of Tennessee’s most prominent aircraft mechanic schools for interested individuals to consider.
Middle State University
Middle State University runs an aviation maintenance technician training program called the Aerospace Maintenance Program. Students learn to work with aircraft components and perform critical repair and maintenance operations.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology
Another option for aspiring aircraft mechanics in Tennessee is applying for the Tennessee College of Applied Technology training program. This program is quite popular and known to operate at a very high educational standard. It includes 18 months of training and 1944 hours of classroom and hands-on instruction.
North Central Institute
Lastly, future aircraft mechanics in Tennessee may obtain their training from North Central Institute. The FAA accredits the program and it has existed for 20 years.
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Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary for aircraft mechanics in Tennessee is $81,589 – the same as the national average. This figure can be affected by various factors, ranging from experience and location to an aircraft mechanic’s particular industry inside the state.
Based on these criteria, an aircraft mechanic in Tennessee can earn up to as high as $119,881 (which is the figure for the highest paid aviation mechanics in the state) or as low as $55,529 (which is the figure for those who fall in the bottom 10%).
As for the highest paying cities to be an aircraft mechanic in Tennessee, they include Murfreesboro, with an annual average salary of $100,840; Memphis, with an average yearly salary of $90,809; and Alcoa, with an average annual wage of $89,347.
Aircraft mechanics in Chattanooga and Nashville earn annual average salaries of $82,369 and $74,245 respectively.
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