Entering the world of aircraft maintenance is no small feat, especially when taking the experience-based route to obtaining an Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification. As one of the newest members of our maintenance team, I’ve had the opportunity to learn firsthand what it takes to keep aircraft operating safely and efficiently.
With our facility still growing, every day brings something new. Whether it’s hands-on troubleshooting, routine inspections, or major repairs, I’m constantly gaining the real-world knowledge that textbooks can’t fully capture. The transition from learning about aviation to working in a Part 145 repair station has been eye-opening—precision, attention to detail, and safety aren’t just best practices; they’re the foundation of everything we do.
One of the biggest challenges of becoming an A&P mechanic through experience is the sheer depth of knowledge required. Unlike a structured classroom setting, I’m learning directly from seasoned technicians who have spent years perfecting their craft. There’s a certain mindset that comes with this profession—being able to anticipate issues before they arise, knowing when to take a step back to reassess a situation, and understanding that no two aircraft are exactly alike. The certification process requires thousands of hours of hands-on experience, and balancing work, training, and studying can be demanding. However, I know that each day in the hangar gets me one step closer to achieving my goal.
Beyond maintenance, aviation has always been a personal passion of mine. I’m also working toward becoming a pilot, and being part of a company that offers both maintenance and flight training has given me a unique advantage. Having direct access to instructors, pilots, and mechanics in the same environment provides a well-rounded perspective that strengthens both my technical skills and my understanding of aircraft operation from the cockpit. Seeing firsthand how pilots and maintenance teams collaborate has reinforced just how critical this profession is to aviation safety.
The aviation industry is facing a well-documented shortage of mechanics, making it an exciting and crucial time to be entering the field. With an aging workforce and increasing demand for air travel, there’s a growing need for skilled A&P technicians to keep aircraft in service. This shortage creates both challenges and opportunities—while it means shops are often operating with leaner teams, it also presents a strong career outlook for those entering the field. As I work toward my A&P certification, I’m eager to contribute to this growing demand and help ensure aircraft remain safe and operational for years to come. With the support of this incredible team, I know I’m on the right path.