HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical pathway into aircraft maintenance engineering may begin with secondary school courses related to math, science, and shop or technical subjects. After that, a person often completes post-secondary technical training or an apprenticeship-style route, depending on the employer and specialization. Practical experience is usually important, and workers often build skills by learning on real aircraft under supervision. Certification or additional training may be needed for some tasks or work settings, but requirements can vary by employer and role.
THE WORK
What you may do
- Inspect aircraft systems and parts
- Perform maintenance and repairs
- Check for wear, damage, or defects
- Follow technical manuals and procedures
- Test equipment and completed work
- Record maintenance activities and findings
- Work with tools and specialized equipment
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A day in this job may involve inspecting aircraft before or after flights, troubleshooting mechanical or system issues, and carrying out maintenance tasks according to procedures. Aircraft maintenance engineers often work with specialized tools, test equipment, and detailed records. They may communicate with other maintenance staff to confirm what needs attention and to make sure work is completed correctly. The work can be hands-on, technical, and safety-focused.
SKILLS TO BUILD