| The Field of aviation is getting more advanced | | | | Combination airframe-and-powerplant |
| every year. The need for qualified airline | | | | mechanics--called A & P mechanics, and |
| mechanics has also increased. The demand for | | | | avionics technicians. Powerplant mechanics are |
| qualified aviation maintenance technicians has | | | | authorized to work on engines and do limited |
| climbed to approximately 50,000 per year. Even | | | | work on propellers. Airframe mechanics are |
| though major Airline companies have had difficult | | | | authorized to work on any part of the aircraft |
| past years, general aviation companies and smaller | | | | except the instruments, powerplants, and |
| jet and aircraft manufacturers are seeking new | | | | propellers. A & P Mechanics work on all parts |
| talent to work as aircraft mechanics. Qualified | | | | of the plane except the instruments. Avionics |
| aviation mechanics often have job offers before | | | | technicians repair and maintain components for |
| they are even finished with school. With increasing | | | | aircraft navigation and radio communications, |
| national dependence on air travel, the demand for | | | | weather radar systems and instruments, and |
| qualified technicians will outrun the supply of | | | | computers that control flight, engine and other |
| available technicians. | | | | functions. |
| Aircraft mechanics ensure planes operate safely | | | | Aviation mechanics usually work in hangars or in |
| and efficiently. They service, repair, overhaul and | | | | other indoor areas, although they can work |
| test aircraft. Aircraft mechanics specialize in | | | | outdoors. These mechanics often work under |
| preventative care, making routine checks on | | | | time pressure to maintain flight schedules and to |
| engines, landing gear, pressurized sections and | | | | keep from inconveniencing air-travel customers. |
| other aircraft parts to make sure everything | | | | Aviation mechanics have a great duty to maintain |
| works properly. Bureau of Labor Statistics ( | | | | safety standards. This is what can make the jobs |
| estimates that there are 154,000 aircraft | | | | somewhat stressful. Aircraft mechanics usually |
| mechanics currently work in the US. There are 4 | | | | work 40 hours a week on 8-hour shifts at |
| major categories under which these mechanics | | | | anytime of the day. |
| fall: Powerplant mechanics, Airframe mechanics, | | | | |