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How do I become an air force aircraft mechanic in the military?
I want to work on jets and all different types of airplanes, I want to know everything about an air force aircraft mechanic while I'm still young.
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5 answers
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Erin, same advice you would need to talk to a recruiter and after going thru the paperwork and taking the test you would see where you stand as far as wanting be a mechanic or see if there is another carrier choice . Good luck.
Updated
enrique’s Answer
To become an aviation mechanic in the military starts with taking your asvab test. Depending on your score and the subjects you excel at will determine what jobs the military is willing to teach you. (Tool knowledge, electrical, memorization, English etc.) After basic training you will be sent to your respective schoolhouse where training begins and specific jobs and aircraft are determined. Airframes(Sheetmetal), avionics(electrical), flightline( general mechanic) are the main 3. This is from my experience in the USMC. There are many companies looking for aviation mechanics with military background. Good luck.
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Hi Erin, the best way to do this would be to enlist in the Air Force or Navy and apply to serve as a mechanic. You'd get lots of on the job training and also get to support the Armed Forces. I'd reach out to any mechanics you'd find to look for an apprenticeship or job opportunities.
Sincerely,
Kevin
Sincerely,
Kevin
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Erin - My journey in the Navy was probably a little different then most people who joined the military. When I joined, I was asked if I wanted the aviation or "sea going" Navy. After basic training most people would go to an "A" school to learn the basics of their elected skill (i.e Engine Mechanic, Sheetmetal, Electrical, Avionics, etc.), I went directly to a squadron at Miramar, California, where I was assigned to the Line Division and became a "Plane Captain" on A-4's and F-8's. The "plane captains" job is to pre-flight the aircraft and ensure it was ready for flight. You can look up on the internet "plane captain" and find a lot of information.
This was the best way I thought, because I got to view and experience the different aviation job classifications the Navy had before I made my choice, which was Jet Engine Mechanic.
Recommendations:
1. Talk to the military recruiters, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force and Marines, remember this is a 4 year commitment. They can give you a lot of guidance.
2. You may or may not be given a choice of the "A" school you will attend after basic training.
3. Keep track of all the training you receive, this can be used to verify your job experience if you decide to get your FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics Certificate. You can do it by attending an approved course, usually 18-24 months, or 30 months of On-the-Job training, (OJT), which is what the military provided you.
Best wishes on your journey.
This was the best way I thought, because I got to view and experience the different aviation job classifications the Navy had before I made my choice, which was Jet Engine Mechanic.
Recommendations:
1. Talk to the military recruiters, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force and Marines, remember this is a 4 year commitment. They can give you a lot of guidance.
2. You may or may not be given a choice of the "A" school you will attend after basic training.
3. Keep track of all the training you receive, this can be used to verify your job experience if you decide to get your FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics Certificate. You can do it by attending an approved course, usually 18-24 months, or 30 months of On-the-Job training, (OJT), which is what the military provided you.
Best wishes on your journey.
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
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James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Erin!
How to Become an Air Force Aircraft Mechanic
Becoming an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force involves several steps, including education, training, and meeting specific requirements. Below is a detailed guide on how to pursue this career path.
Step 1: Understand the Role of an Aircraft Mechanic
Aircraft mechanics in the Air Force are responsible for maintaining and repairing various types of military aircraft, including jets and helicopters. Their duties include conducting inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, performing repairs, and ensuring that all systems function properly. This role requires a strong understanding of aviation technology and mechanics.
Step 2: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
To enlist in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:
Age: You must be between 17 and 39 years old.
Citizenship: You need to be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required. Courses in mathematics, physics, and electronics can be beneficial.
Physical Fitness: You must pass a physical examination and meet fitness standards.
Step 3: Enlist in the Air Force
To become an aircraft mechanic, you will need to enlist in the Air Force. This process includes:
Contacting a Recruiter: Speak with an Air Force recruiter who can provide information about available positions and guide you through the enlistment process.
Taking the ASVAB: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test assesses your skills and helps determine your suitability for various military jobs. A good score is essential for qualifying for technical roles like aircraft maintenance.
Completing Basic Training: After enlisting, you will undergo Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas for approximately 8 weeks.
Step 4: Technical Training
After completing BMT, you will attend technical training specific to aircraft maintenance:
Technical School: You will attend one of several technical schools where you will receive specialized training in aircraft maintenance. The length of this training can vary but generally lasts from several months to over a year depending on your specific job specialty (AFSC).
Job Specialization: During technical training, you may choose or be assigned to specialize in areas such as avionics systems, propulsion systems, or airframe repair.
Step 5: Gain Experience
Once you complete your technical training:
On-the-Job Training (OJT): You will gain practical experience working alongside experienced mechanics on actual aircraft.
Continuous Learning: The field of aviation technology is constantly evolving; therefore, ongoing education and certification are important for career advancement.
Step 6: Consider Certifications
While not mandatory for military service members, obtaining additional certifications can enhance your qualifications:
FAA Certification: After serving in the military as an aircraft mechanic, many choose to obtain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification as it allows them to work as civilian mechanics after their service.
Additional Training Programs: Consider enrolling in programs offered by organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) or other relevant institutions.
Conclusion
Becoming an air force aircraft mechanic involves meeting eligibility requirements, enlisting in the military, completing basic and technical training, gaining hands-on experience, and considering further certifications for career advancement. This pathway offers valuable skills that are applicable both within the military context and in civilian aviation careers.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Air Force Official Website
This source provides comprehensive information about enlistment processes, job descriptions within the Air Force including those related to aircraft maintenance.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The FAA outlines certification processes for aviation professionals which is crucial for understanding potential career paths post-military service.
Military.com
This site offers resources regarding military careers including detailed descriptions of various roles within the armed forces along with guidance on enlistment procedures and benefits associated with different specialties.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
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|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
How to Become an Air Force Aircraft Mechanic
Becoming an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force involves several steps, including education, training, and meeting specific requirements. Below is a detailed guide on how to pursue this career path.
Step 1: Understand the Role of an Aircraft Mechanic
Aircraft mechanics in the Air Force are responsible for maintaining and repairing various types of military aircraft, including jets and helicopters. Their duties include conducting inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, performing repairs, and ensuring that all systems function properly. This role requires a strong understanding of aviation technology and mechanics.
Step 2: Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
To enlist in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:
Age: You must be between 17 and 39 years old.
Citizenship: You need to be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required. Courses in mathematics, physics, and electronics can be beneficial.
Physical Fitness: You must pass a physical examination and meet fitness standards.
Step 3: Enlist in the Air Force
To become an aircraft mechanic, you will need to enlist in the Air Force. This process includes:
Contacting a Recruiter: Speak with an Air Force recruiter who can provide information about available positions and guide you through the enlistment process.
Taking the ASVAB: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test assesses your skills and helps determine your suitability for various military jobs. A good score is essential for qualifying for technical roles like aircraft maintenance.
Completing Basic Training: After enlisting, you will undergo Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas for approximately 8 weeks.
Step 4: Technical Training
After completing BMT, you will attend technical training specific to aircraft maintenance:
Technical School: You will attend one of several technical schools where you will receive specialized training in aircraft maintenance. The length of this training can vary but generally lasts from several months to over a year depending on your specific job specialty (AFSC).
Job Specialization: During technical training, you may choose or be assigned to specialize in areas such as avionics systems, propulsion systems, or airframe repair.
Step 5: Gain Experience
Once you complete your technical training:
On-the-Job Training (OJT): You will gain practical experience working alongside experienced mechanics on actual aircraft.
Continuous Learning: The field of aviation technology is constantly evolving; therefore, ongoing education and certification are important for career advancement.
Step 6: Consider Certifications
While not mandatory for military service members, obtaining additional certifications can enhance your qualifications:
FAA Certification: After serving in the military as an aircraft mechanic, many choose to obtain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification as it allows them to work as civilian mechanics after their service.
Additional Training Programs: Consider enrolling in programs offered by organizations such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) or other relevant institutions.
Conclusion
Becoming an air force aircraft mechanic involves meeting eligibility requirements, enlisting in the military, completing basic and technical training, gaining hands-on experience, and considering further certifications for career advancement. This pathway offers valuable skills that are applicable both within the military context and in civilian aviation careers.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Air Force Official Website
This source provides comprehensive information about enlistment processes, job descriptions within the Air Force including those related to aircraft maintenance.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The FAA outlines certification processes for aviation professionals which is crucial for understanding potential career paths post-military service.
Military.com
This site offers resources regarding military careers including detailed descriptions of various roles within the armed forces along with guidance on enlistment procedures and benefits associated with different specialties.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯