Is Aviation Maintenance a Good Career?

Skilled aviation maintenance technicians are essential in maintaining and repairing planes.

Fortunately, the 24-month Aviation Maintenance Technology program at MIAT College of Technology (part of the UTI family of schools) provides an education that helps students to develop skills needed in the field!¹ After program completion, graduates are prepared to pursue work as aviation maintenance technicians.⁸⁰

So, is aviation maintenance a good career?

Continue reading for more information! We’ll give you details about a career as an aviation tech and how to obtain training from MIAT.

What Is an Aviation Maintenance Technician?

Aviation maintenance technicians are typically in charge of ensuring that aircraft are in safe working order. They perform inspections, repairs and overhauls of aircraft technologies and their systems. Here are some of their typical duties:

Aircraft inspections: Aircraft inspections ensure that technicians identify problems or defects in accordance with FAA regulations.
Routine maintenance tasks: Routine maintenance tasks are performed on aircraft systems, such as airframes, engines, avionics and electrical and hydraulic systems.
Diagnosis and troubleshooting: Aviation maintenance technicians frequently diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues.
Repairs or replacements of defective parts: Repairs or replacements of defective aircraft parts are usually carried out by aviation maintenance technicians.
Functional tests: Functional tests, such as engine runs and electrical and instrument system checks, are performed to ensure that the repaired or installed systems are operationally sound.

Read: MIAT College of Technology Programs

Benefits of an Aviation Maintenance Career

Aviation maintenance techs are essential because they keep aircraft in good working order. These technicians also often work in a fast-paced environment and are frequently involved in complex situations requiring problem-solving skills.

This makes the task of working with cutting-edge aircraft technology both challenging and exciting! An aviation maintenance career can also allow aviation technicians to work in various locations, including internationally, which is a huge plus for many people in the industry.

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Aviation Maintenance Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 10,000+ estimated average annual aviation technician job openings in the U.S.⁶⁵

The BLS also reported that the median annual salary for aviation maintenance technicians in the United States was $70,010 in May 2022.⁵⁷ This means that half earned more and half earned less. Remember that salary is affected by a variety of factors, including experience, employer, demand and the cost of living in the area.

How Long Does Aviation Maintenance Training Take?

Trade schools help students develop a thorough understanding of the technologies used in their desired fields through hands-on instruction taught by experienced industry professionals. These opportunities can help students gain in-demand skills needed to apply for potential technician jobs!

Aviation Maintenance FAQ

Is Aviation Maintenance Hard?

Aviation maintenance careers can be difficult for several reasons.

First, aircraft technologies are made up of numerous complex systems such as mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems. To ensure the aircraft's safety and reliability, each system must be well-maintained, calibrated and repaired.

Second, aircraft maintenance technicians must work closely with precision tools and equipment, which requires a high level of technical knowledge and attention to detail.

Third, working in aviation maintenance can mean long hours in high-stress environments, such as during emergency repairs or meeting tight deadlines. They must also maintain a high level of safety awareness and stay current with the latest developments in aviation technology.

Many of our aviation maintenance technician students thrive off the potential challenges of confronting and overcoming these challenges with their hard-earned skills!

Is There a Lot of Math in Aviation Maintenance?

Yes, there’s a lot of math involved in aviation maintenance. That’s because working in this industry often involves measuring and adjusting engine components, computing fuel consumption, determining aircraft weight and balance, and other tasks that require precise mathematical calculations. All of these responsibilities are critical in ensuring the safety and performance of aircraft.

Do You Need a Degree To Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech?

There is no federal law that requires employers to include specific requirements, such as an aviation maintenance degree, in aviation maintenance job postings. Some states and cities, however, may require technicians to have training credentials before they can work.

In any event, these credentials can assist potential aviation maintenance technicians stand out from other applicants who need more technical training qualifications by indicating that they require less on-the-job training!

Read: Hands-on Training for Your Future

Enroll in Aviation Maintenance Training at MIAT!

Experienced aviation maintenance technicians may have opportunities to work on some of the industry's most advanced aircraft and technologies. Even those without prior trade education experience can learn the skills required for entry-level positions in this field with the right training program, such as MIAT's Aviation Maintenance Technology program!¹

Ready to enroll in an aviation maintenance program? Contact an Admissions Representative at 1-800-834-7308 or visit our website to request more information.

Is Aviation Maintenance a Good Career? | MIAT (2024)