aircraft mechanics?

Question

What makes a good aircraft mechanic apprentice? This is for all the AMEs out there.

Answer 1

The best personal qualities I think would be a sharp attention for detail, willing to work in all types of conditions, honesty, and integrity. Its all about not being a "dirt bag". Be able to notice the small things and not try to half *** something just to get a plane out early. Having a love for aircraft also helps!
As far as experience? If you know nothing, someone will teach you. Even after you do it a while, you still learn. Be willing to start at the bottom. Everyone wants to hire experience, but not everyone has it. I started with helicopters in the military, now I work on CRJ's. The military is a good place to start. I had 7 years experience and took all the FAA tests for $900. The guys I work with that went to school say they paid $15000-$20000! And say its even more now. It will suck in the military a bit, but its good experience, and they get very in-detail and teach that. You say AME, which makes me think you are outside of the US, in which case government rules for mechnics may be different. If this is what you are looking to do personally, good luck!

Answer 2

This is a great question! It is hard to answer however since there can be so many variables. I have been an aircraft mechanic for over 11 years now. I have contracted overseas (Iraq) and made over $175,000 a year working 40 hours a week. I have friends that routinely take contracting jobs overseas and make 6 figures. Can you make that money in the states? Not very easily. High paying aircraft mechanic jobs are military government contractors, mechanics for aircraft assigned to forest fire contracts and of course the airlines, although the airlines have been under economic pressure for some time. Mechanics at an FBO will make less than an car mechanic more likely. FBO jobs are good for gaining experience however. I currently work as a EMS helicopter mechanic. Yes it is possible an auto mechanic makes more than me, however, pay is only part of the equation. I only work typically 3-4 days a week. I am salary. I know car mechanics that make $80,000 but they basically live at work. I personally would rather make less money and spend time with my kids. The other part of the equation is whether or not you enjoy aviation. If you think airplanes and helicopters are cool and you have a safety oriented mindset, aviation can be a very rewarding career and you can make great money at it. Aircraft mechanics are part of a small group of people who enjoy doing what they love. Sure, pilots get all the glory, but we all know that it is because of skilled mechanics that they are able to defy gravity and return to earth safely.

Answer 3

First and foremost, you must have a good attitude, if you don't have a good attitude most people won't take the time to show or help you. Second, the ability to follow instructions to the letter as most aircraft and engine has a strict procedure and if you deviate it can have some unforeseen consequences. Third, you must have a mechanical background and a good knowledge how basic tools are used. We do not want grease monkeys or back yard mechanics trying to be an aircraft mechanic. It is a very disciplined job governed by the FAA, unlike car mechanic where any idiot can pick up a wrench and call himself an expert mechanic. You also must remember every part is critical no matter how small it is. Always double check your work, and strive to improve all the time.

Answer 4

I haven't worked aircraft for a number of years but I want to add something to this discussion. IMO one of the more important things needed is a deep seated caring. Caring about the people who will fly in your airplane. This trait helps you focus on all the other things being discussed here.

I doubt there is a mechanic alive who can honestly say they NEVER made a mistake. I'm sure I did but I NEVER sent a plane down the runway that I wouldn't have flown on.

When I think about that I can sleep very soundly at night.

Answer 5

I am not a mechanic myself, but I did manage a maintenance shop for quite a few years and I have found that the best mechanics are the ones that are willing to always learn new things. You never know everything in aviation maintenance as the aircraft are changing and becoming more advance everyday. My lead IA would admit that he would learn from the A&Ps that workded underneath him and that made him and extrodinary mechanic.

Answer 6

The one I wanted with me,and have had some Good ones.
# 1 Safety Conscience-#2 Knows where tech.orders are.#3
takes dirty jobs,as well as good.# 4 He-She ask questions,with
right attatude,#5 Focused and last of all ever learning.I would rather have a person with me that truly wants to work,with no exp,,as have a "know it all with 20 yrs exp.

Answer 7

One way is to join the Air Force. You are sent to a tech school. While in the military, you can go to school at their expense and get your (airframe and powerplant) licenses. By the time you get out, you can have experience to add to your resume. It's cheaper than paying for it all yourself, including the living expenses. If you decide to go it alone, you are in for a really hard time.......and getting exploited by unscrupulous vendors.

Answer 8

what you bring to the table is your excellent attitude, boundless enthusiasm and never ending quest for knowledge, however, to make you into a GOOD AME, you further need an outstanding instructor / mentor to work with

Answer 9

Aptitude and lots of experience!