Turn Your Interest in Aviation Into a Hands-On Career with AIM

Aircraft keep the world moving—but behind every safe flight is a team of skilled aviation maintenance professionals responsible for inspecting, troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing the aircraft and systems on which passengers, pilots, airlines, businesses, and communities depend.

If you're looking for a hands-on career in aviation without becoming a pilot, training as an Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) could be your path into the industry.

Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) specializes in career-focused aviation maintenance education designed to help students build the technical knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue opportunities throughout the aviation industry.

And getting started is easy.

Ready to learn more about AIM?

REQUEST INFORMATION FROM AVIATION INSTITUTE OF MAINTENANCE

Complete the short form through Aviation Schools Online (ASO) to connect with AIM and receive information about training programs, campus options, admissions, financial aid for those who qualify, and your next steps.

Why Consider a Career in Aviation Maintenance?

Pilots may be the most visible aviation professionals, but airplanes don't leave the ground without qualified technicians maintaining them.

Aviation Maintenance Technicians can perform critical work involving:

  • Aircraft engines

  • Airframes and structures

  • Electrical systems

  • Hydraulic and pneumatic systems

  • Flight controls

  • Landing gear

  • Fuel systems

  • Propellers

  • Aircraft inspections

  • Troubleshooting and diagnostics

  • Preventive maintenance

  • Maintenance documentation

  • Avionics and aircraft electronics

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians install, test, adjust, and repair aircraft equipment and systems. These professionals commonly work in aircraft hangars, repair stations, and on airfields. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

For someone who enjoys aircraft, technology, mechanical systems, troubleshooting, and hands-on work, aviation maintenance can offer an entirely different way to build a career in aviation.

Aviation Maintenance Careers Are in Demand

The outlook for trained aviation maintenance professionals remains strong.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians is projected to grow 6% from 2025 through 2035, faster than the 3% projected average for all occupations.

BLS projects approximately:

13,100 Job Openings Each Year

for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians, on average, over the decade.

Growth in passenger air travel, cargo transportation, increasing numbers of aircraft, more sophisticated aircraft systems, and growth in the space sector are among the factors expected to contribute to the need for technicians. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

For students considering technical careers, that means aviation maintenance provides an opportunity to pursue skills used across a broad and evolving industry.

What Is Aviation Institute of Maintenance?

Aviation Institute of Maintenance, commonly known as AIM, is a network of career schools specializing in aviation maintenance and technical education.

AIM currently operates 15 campuses across 13 states, with locations in:

  • Atlanta Metro, Georgia

  • Charlotte, North Carolina

  • Chicago, Illinois

  • Dallas Metro, Texas

  • Fremont, California

  • Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey

  • Houston, Texas

  • Indianapolis, Indiana

  • Kansas City, Missouri

  • Las Vegas, Nevada

  • Norfolk, Virginia

  • Northern Virginia

  • Orlando Metro, Florida

  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  • Phoenix, Arizona

AIM states that its campuses use aviation learning centers, aircraft hangars, laboratories, tools, and equipment intended to reflect real-world aviation maintenance environments. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

That nationwide footprint gives prospective students the ability to explore aviation maintenance education in many major U.S. aviation markets.

AIM Aviation Maintenance Technician Training

One of AIM's core programs is its:

Aviation Maintenance Technician Program

AIM currently lists its Aviation Maintenance Technician program as available at all 15 AIM locations. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

The program is designed to provide career-focused technical instruction and hands-on aviation maintenance experience.

Students pursuing aviation maintenance training may encounter subject areas involving:

Airframe Systems

Training can involve areas such as:

  • Aircraft structures

  • Sheet metal

  • Composite materials

  • Flight controls

  • Landing gear

  • Hydraulic systems

  • Pneumatic systems

  • Aircraft electrical systems

  • Inspections

  • Maintenance procedures

Powerplant Systems

Students can develop knowledge relating to:

  • Reciprocating aircraft engines

  • Turbine engines

  • Fuel systems

  • Ignition systems

  • Engine electrical systems

  • Lubrication

  • Engine instruments

  • Propellers

  • Engine inspection

  • Engine troubleshooting

General Aviation Maintenance

Training can also include:

  • Federal aviation regulations

  • Aircraft drawings

  • Weight and balance

  • Maintenance documentation

  • Materials and processes

  • Ground operations

  • Safety practices

  • Tools and equipment

  • Inspection procedures

The exact curriculum and program availability can vary by campus, so prospective students should speak directly with AIM about the program offered at the location they are considering.

Take the First Step

TELL AIM YOU'RE INTERESTED IN AVIATION MAINTENANCE TRAINING

Complete the ASO form and request information from Aviation Institute of Maintenance.

What Is an A&P Mechanic?

Students researching aviation maintenance will frequently encounter the term A&P mechanic.

A&P stands for:

Airframe + Powerplant

The FAA issues an Aviation Mechanic certificate with:

Airframe (A) rating

and/or

Powerplant (P) rating

A mechanic who holds both ratings is commonly described as having an A&P Certificate. (FAA)

Airframe Rating

The Airframe side focuses primarily on the aircraft's structure and related systems.

Powerplant Rating

The Powerplant side focuses primarily on aircraft engines and their associated systems.

Holding both ratings can provide a broad foundation for someone pursuing professional aircraft maintenance opportunities.

How Do You Qualify for FAA A&P Certification?

One route toward meeting FAA eligibility requirements is graduating from an FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School, commonly referred to as an AMTS or Part 147 school.

The FAA recognizes two primary routes for obtaining the training or experience necessary to pursue mechanic certification:

  1. Complete applicable training through an FAA-certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician School.

  2. Acquire qualifying on-the-job practical maintenance experience.

The FAA states that most Part 147 school programs have an estimated completion time of approximately 18 to 24 months, depending on the rating or ratings pursued and the individual school's program. (FAA)

Applicants seeking an FAA Aviation Mechanic certificate generally must also be at least 18 years old, meet applicable English-language requirements, establish eligibility through approved education or qualifying experience, and pass the applicable FAA knowledge, oral, and practical examinations. (FAA)

Learn by Doing

Aircraft maintenance is not simply a career you learn from a textbook.

Technicians need to know how to diagnose problems, use specialized tools, interpret technical information, inspect aircraft systems, make repairs, and perform maintenance correctly.

AIM emphasizes hands-on training as part of its educational model and says its learning environments are designed to expose students to tools, equipment, hangars, and technical training that reflect aviation maintenance workplaces. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

For mechanically inclined students, this can be one of the most appealing parts of aviation maintenance education:

You Learn by Working With Aviation Technology.

Rather than spending your entire education behind a desk, aviation maintenance training can place you around aircraft, engines, components, systems, tools, and maintenance equipment.

What Can You Do With Aviation Maintenance Training?

Aircraft maintenance skills can be valuable throughout the aviation industry.

Depending on education, certification, experience, employer requirements, and specialization, aviation maintenance professionals may pursue opportunities with:

  • Major airlines

  • Regional airlines

  • Cargo carriers

  • Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul organizations

  • FAA repair stations

  • Corporate aviation departments

  • Business jet operators

  • Aircraft manufacturers

  • Aerospace companies

  • Engine manufacturers

  • General aviation facilities

  • Fixed-base operators

  • Flight schools

  • Helicopter operators

  • Government aviation

  • Defense contractors

The FAA notes that Aviation Maintenance Technicians commonly work at Maintenance and Repair Organizations (MROs), airlines, commercial and corporate aviation organizations, and general aviation operations, among other employers. (FAA)

This means your aviation maintenance education can potentially open doors to far more than one type of employer or aircraft.

What Do Aircraft Mechanics Earn?

Earnings vary substantially based on employer, geographic area, certification, experience, shift, overtime, specialty, and type of aviation operation.

According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook data:

Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians

Median annual wage: $79,870

Avionics Technicians

Median annual wage: $82,280

These figures are based on May 2025 national wage data.

Aircraft mechanics and service technicians working in air transportation had a median annual wage of approximately $96,170, while avionics technicians in air transportation had a median annual wage of approximately $99,620. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

These figures are national occupational statistics and are not guaranteed starting salaries for AIM graduates or any individual student.

Actual compensation depends on many factors.

Aviation Maintenance vs. Avionics

Aircraft are becoming increasingly dependent on sophisticated electrical and electronic systems.

That makes avionics another career area worth exploring.

Aviation Maintenance Technicians may focus on:

  • Engines

  • Aircraft structures

  • Mechanical systems

  • Landing gear

  • Hydraulics

  • Flight controls

  • Inspection

  • Troubleshooting

Avionics Technicians may focus more heavily on:

  • Electrical systems

  • Navigation systems

  • Communication equipment

  • Aircraft instruments

  • Sensors

  • Electronic displays

  • Flight management systems

  • Aircraft computers

BLS currently projects 9% employment growth for avionics technicians from 2025 through 2035, compared with 5% for aircraft mechanics and service technicians. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Program availability differs by AIM campus, so students interested in avionics should ask AIM which locations and programs best match their career goals. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

AIM Offers More Than One Aviation Education Path

AIM's current aviation education offerings include several programs, although availability varies by location.

Programs listed by AIM include:

  • Aviation Maintenance Technician

  • Professional Aviation Maintenance Certification

  • Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer

  • Associate of Occupational Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology

  • Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology

The Aviation Maintenance Technician program is currently listed as available at all AIM locations, while other programs are available only at selected campuses. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

That's another reason to request information before choosing a campus.

Find the AIM Program That's Right for You

REQUEST AIM PROGRAM & CAMPUS INFORMATION THROUGH ASO

Career Services at Aviation Institute of Maintenance

Technical education is one part of preparing for a career.

Learning how to connect with employers is another.

AIM reports that its career services include resources such as:

  • Resume workshops

  • Interview preparation

  • Employer connections

  • Job fairs

  • Industry partnerships

Career assistance does not guarantee employment, but career preparation and employer exposure can be valuable as students begin looking for opportunities in aviation maintenance. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

Financial Aid for Those Who Qualify

Paying for career training is an important consideration for nearly every prospective student.

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance listing on Aviation Schools Online identifies financial aid for those who qualify, along with resources that may include military tuition assistance and other student support options. (aviationschoolsonline.com)

Students should speak directly with AIM about:

  • Tuition

  • Program costs

  • Financial aid eligibility

  • Scholarships

  • Federal aid programs

  • Military education benefits

  • Payment options

  • Tools and equipment expenses

  • Testing expenses

  • Housing and transportation considerations

Understanding the total cost of completing your chosen program is more useful than comparing tuition alone.

Is Aviation Maintenance Right for You?

You don't have to grow up rebuilding engines to consider an aviation maintenance career.

Aviation maintenance may be worth exploring if you:

  • Love airplanes

  • Enjoy working with your hands

  • Like figuring out how things work

  • Enjoy solving problems

  • Are mechanically inclined

  • Have an interest in technology

  • Pay attention to details

  • Take safety seriously

  • Prefer hands-on training

  • Want a technical career

  • Want to work in aviation without becoming a pilot

Some students discover aviation maintenance after originally considering another technical trade.

Others have wanted to work around airplanes their entire lives.

The first step is learning what the career actually involves.

From Student to Aviation Maintenance Professional

A possible career path can look like:

Explore Aviation Maintenance

↓

Select an AIM Campus & Program

↓

Begin Hands-On Aviation Maintenance Training

↓

Complete Your Program

↓

Pursue Applicable FAA Testing & Certification

↓

Build Professional Experience

↓

Pursue Opportunities Throughout the Aviation Industry

Your individual path will depend on the program completed, FAA certification, employer requirements, career interests, and experience.

But every aviation maintenance career begins somewhere.

For many future technicians, it begins in school.

Why Start With Aviation Institute of Maintenance?

Students evaluating aviation maintenance schools should compare programs carefully.

AIM gives prospective students several points to consider:

Aviation-Focused Education

AIM specializes heavily in aviation maintenance and related technical education.

15 Campuses Nationwide

Students can explore locations across multiple U.S. aviation markets. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

Aviation Maintenance Technician Training at Every AIM Campus

The AMT program is currently listed as offered at all AIM locations. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

Hands-On Learning

AIM emphasizes training in aviation-focused laboratories, learning centers, and hangar environments. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

Career Support

AIM reports providing career services designed to help students prepare to enter the workforce. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

Multiple Aviation Program Options

Selected campuses offer additional maintenance technology and certification programs. (Aviation Institute of Maintenance)

Take the First Step Toward an Aviation Maintenance Career

You don't need to know everything about aircraft maintenance before contacting a school.

That's what the first conversation is for.

Requesting information can help you learn:

  • Which AIM campus is closest to you

  • Which programs are available

  • How long training may take

  • When classes start

  • What training involves

  • What tuition and program costs are

  • Whether financial aid may be available if you qualify

  • What career resources are available

  • What steps you need to take to enroll

There is no better time to start asking questions about where an aviation maintenance career could take you.

READY TO EXPLORE AVIATION INSTITUTE OF MAINTENANCE?

APPLY / REQUEST INFORMATION FROM AIM THROUGH AVIATION SCHOOLS ONLINE

Complete the form today and let Aviation Institute of Maintenance know you're interested in beginning your aviation maintenance training.

Find Your School. Start Your Training. Build Your Aviation Career.

For more than two decades, Aviation Schools Online (ASO) has helped prospective aviation students research aviation education and connect with training providers.

If you've been wondering whether an aviation maintenance career could be right for you, take the next step.

Aviation Institute of Maintenance could be where your aviation career begins.

CONNECT WITH AVIATION INSTITUTE OF MAINTENANCE NOW

AVIATION SCHOOLS ONLINE

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