How to Become an Aircraft Engine Specialist

An aircraft engine specialist works to inspect, maintain and repair the engines of airplanes. They can work for private companies or public corporations. These highly skilled specialists often stand on ladders or scaffolds to service aircraft engines. There is a wide range of opportunity available in this career.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Do well in high school courses such as math, chemistry, physics and computer science. Courses in electronics and mechanical drawing are helpful also. Develop good writing skills in order to be able to write reports on your findings as you work on aircraft engines.

2. Attend a trade school certified by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) if you want to become an aircraft engine specialist. There are certified mechanics schools that offer 2-year programs and 4-year programs. Depending on which program you take, you can earn a degree in aviation maintenance management, avionics or aviation technology.

3. Keep abreast of the new technology constantly being developed. Turbine engines and aviation electronics are always being updated. While you'll learn much of this by on-the-job training, there are also classes available. Some require a minimum of 1,900 actual class hours. Some can take from 2 years to 30 months to complete in order to become an aircraft engine specialist.

4. Be a good communicator and listen well in order to be able to analyze a pilot's description of a problem he or she is experiencing in an aircraft's engine. Good people skills are an asset if you want to become an aircraft engine specialist.

5. Apply for a job with an airline company or at a local airport. Sometimes you can get a job as an aircraft engine specialist's assistant and get on-the-job training even before you complete trade school or training courses. For some jobs in this field, 18 to 30 months of work experience can count toward your certification.