Aircraft fleets are growing and the number of hours flown keeps increasing. To fly these airplanes we need more mechanics both now and in the future. The prospects are good for an annual growth rate of 5% per year according to government statistics. Joining me today is an aircraft mechanic who helps mechanics reach their career goals. Mark Joy is a certificated A & P mechanic with over 15 years of experience. Mark has a specialized background in avionics and drone research and development. To top it off, Mark is also a private pilot. Mark also believes that you don't need to spend tons of money to become a mechanic and explains why in this episode. Questions feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com? Send us your accomplishments and a photo if you want us to share in the podcast on YouTube to feedback@aviationcareerspodcast.com Talking Points: Why Mark loves being a mechanic. I find fulfillment in making things "work" again I have ADHD and have found that there is something about doing hands-on work that gets me into the deep "flow" state I enjoy solving hard problems What type of job opportunities for mechanics? Manufacturers Airlines Line Mx Hangar Mx General Aviation Contracting For civilian businesses For the military/government Drones Drone delivery services Google Wing Zipline Mana Amazon (under construction) Drone manufacturing & repair Consumer Military & Government use Data collection Space (rockets, satellites, etc) Specializations within any of these: Structures (sheet metal, composites) NDT Avionics Powerplants Manufacturing/Assembly QA R&D You can also work outside the aviation sector: Amusement parks Renewable energy (wind turbines, solar, etc) Railroads Other manufacturing Many other hands-on skilled trades What the future of mechanic hiring looks like Per Bureau of Labor Projection Stats thru 2033: 5% growth total (same as all other occupations) 8% for avionics 5% for other Mx, repair, and service ~13,400 job openings per year Due to folks retiring or leaving for other fields Growth in pax travel and shipping demand May also see an uptick in space travel Why you don't need to spend a ton of money on getting your mechanic certification. Employers know that if you are a new A&P, you're going to need some level of job-specific training anyway You have your A&P, or you don't. How much you spent doesn't really matter to employers. A&P is generally accepted in aviation as a "license to learn" If you already have the required experience, there is no FAA requirement to spend any money on a PT147 school if you don't want to - you just need to prepare for the tests and pass them. What are some of the misperceptions most have about being a mechanic? If they've never picked up a wrench, you can't do this job They won't be able to pass the tests They won't make very much money 2023 wages: Top 10%: $115k Median: $75k Bottom 10%: $45k or less How can we reach Mark? Download my free ultimate guide on how to become a mechanic - markhjoy.com/guide Email me: mark@markhjoy.com Links: Become an Aircraft Mechanic - Ultimate Guide | Free PDF download for listeners: markhjoy.com/guide Monthly Group Coaching: https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/group-career-coaching Use coupon code "CoachItForward" for the first month free. One On One Coaching: https://valeri-aviation.thinkific.com/courses/career-coaching Questions: Questions please visit us: https://www.aviationcareerspodcast.com/contact/
