An aviation machinist is a person who services, builds, or repairs aircraft of various types. In order to become an aviation machinist, you will first need to complete a high school education. Pay special attention to math and science courses, but be sure you also have basic reading and writing skills. Once you graduate from high school, you have several options that will allow you to become an aviation machinist: you can attend a vocational school approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or a similar governing body in your country; you can also enroll in the military.
Enrolling in the military is a great way to become an aviation machinist if you do not have the money to enroll in a school and do not mind a commitment of several years to your military. Certain branches of the military will train you to repair, build, and maintain aircraft with classroom and on the job training. Be prepared to commit up to five years to the military, and remember that you may end up having to travel to various locations throughout the world, some of them dangerous locations. Only choose this option if you are interested in military operations.
Otherwise, in order to become an aviation machinist, you will need to attend school. The school must be approved by the governing agency of your country, and all the appropriate training and certification must be included in the coursework. Research the tuition rates for various schools and decide how you will secure funding for your education. This can be difficult, but federal aid is sometimes available, as are personal education loans. The amount you spend on schooling will depend on the school's tuition rates as well as the length of the training program: some certificates or degrees only take two years to complete, while others may take up to four years.
Once you finish your training to become an aviation machinist, you may have to participate in an apprenticeship or training period on the job. You will work with more experienced mechanics on real airplanes, and you will learn more thoroughly the tasks associated with the job. Entry-level positions will probably pay less than more established positions, but it is possible to work up through the ranks fairly quickly. You will need to undergo further training throughout your career in order to maintain your certifications as a mechanic; all mechanics must do so, and the training is intended to keep you current on your knowledge of new technology.
