An aircraft maintenance apprenticeship will prepare you for a career as a mechanic or aircraft maintenance worker in the aviation industry. This is a challenging job that requires extensive training, and you must first complete your high school education. Many aircraft maintenance apprenticeship programs require a college diploma, though this is not always required. There are several options for obtaining such training: enroll in an aviation school that offers such programs, join the military and learn maintenance for free, or find an apprenticeship program with an aircraft manufacturer.
Joining the military for the purpose of obtaining an aircraft maintenance apprenticeship has both benefits and drawbacks. You won’t have to pay tuition for the skills you learn, and after completing an apprenticeship, you’ll be fully qualified to work on any aircraft. Of course, you’ll have to commit to serving in the military for a certain number of years, which could mean going overseas or working in dangerous environments. Military requirements differ from country to country, so be sure to research what you’ll be expected to do before applying for a military aircraft maintenance apprenticeship.
Coursework in aircraft maintenance is frequently offered by aviation schools. You can take such courses and then look for an apprenticeship after you graduate; this is a good way to get an aircraft maintenance apprenticeship because you will be well-qualified and prepared for the job, which may shorten your apprenticeship period and increase your chances of being chosen for an apprenticeship position in the first place. However, you will have to pay tuition to attend such a school, which can be quite costly. Before you enroll, think about how you will pay for your education.
You can also apply for an aircraft maintenance apprenticeship at a manufacturer or another aircraft firm. You will almost certainly require at least a high school diploma, and you will almost certainly require some college experience as well. The requirements for an apprenticeship can vary, and you may need to work in another entry-level position before applying. Make sure you know what the company is looking for in a candidate ahead of time and do your best to meet those requirements.