Aircraft maintenance careers need a visible first step

Start by understanding the work

Aircraft maintenance is hands-on work: inspecting, servicing, troubleshooting and repairing aircraft or components under the relevant procedures and supervision. Aircraft maintenance is different from aircraft design through an aeronautical engineering degree.

Mechanical, avionics and structures work also differ. Someone who enjoys fault-finding electrical systems may have different interests from someone drawn to engines or sheet-metal repairs. Our guide to maintenance trades and qualification streams helps candidates make that distinction.

Four steps a candidate can take now

1. Make the resume useful

   Show practical projects, tools used, reliability, teamwork and work history. School, volunteering and other trades can provide relevant examples; do not invent aircraft experience.

2. Create a candidate profile

   Use Sigma’s resume and apprentice candidate tool to record your location, interests and availability. Keep the details current so a potential employer can understand what you are looking for.

3. Approach aircraft maintenance employers

   Look for apprentice and trade assistant opportunities with operators and MROs. Explain why their type of maintenance interests you and whether you can travel or relocate.

4. Agree on the training once employed

   An apprenticeship needs an employer and the appropriate training arrangements. The training provider then works with the employer and apprentice on the qualification and workplace learning plan.

AIR gives people a practical introduction

Our Aeroskills Industry Readiness (AIR) program is a five-week, face-to-face introduction for groups of up to 15. It combines maintenance foundations, safety, guided practical work and assessment to help people understand the environment they want to enter.

AIR is a non-accredited pre-employment program. It does not award a trade qualification or CASA licence, or guarantee a job. It gives participants practical exposure and gives participating employers a better basis for discussing suitability for an entry-level role.

Employers can help create the entry point

AIR can be delivered around Australia when industry, government or industry bodies provide the funding and suitable facilities. Tell us the location, likely roles and available facilities to discuss a class and request a quote.

Once an apprentice is employed, our workplace apprentice training keeps the learning connected to the tasks they are doing. Employers can also explore candidate recruitment and Group Training Organisation options.

Written by the Sigma Aerospace College training team. AMROBA is cited as an industry source; these are Sigma’s explanations and services, not an AMROBA endorsement.