Career Corner
How bad is the mechanic shortage?
Are aircraft mechanics really in demand?
YES, THEY ARE!
Training to be an aircraft mechanic? Here’s some good news: the aviation industry needs you—badly. The workforce is shrinking fast, and the demand for skilled mechanics is soaring. Let’s break it down.
Where are all the mechanics going?
Right now, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. aviation mechanic workforce sits at about 129,200 people. Sounds like a lot, right? But here’s the problem: a huge portion of mechanics are nearing retirement, 40% of the workforce is over 55 years old. That means despite the normal growth of the industry, there will be a large shortage of mechanics in the coming years.
A&P schools create roughly 6,000 new A&P and avionics technicians per year, but the industry expects 11,300 job openings per year through 2033. And by 2028, the industry could face a 25,000 mechanic shortage if new mechanics don’t enter the field fast enough.
“By 2028, the industry could face a 25,000 mechanic shortage”
Translation: companies are scrambling to hire and keep good mechanics. That means better job security, strong wages, and lots of opportunities.
What does this mean for you?
As an A&P student, you’re sitting on a huge career opportunity. Airlines, which account for about 23% of A&P jobs, are hiring at a rapid pace with higher pay and have doubled down on new training programs and technology. The rest of the industry is rolling out its own incentives, like training programs, apprenticeships, and better pay, to attract the talent that the airlines haven't secured.
How to take advantage of the technician market
• Get Certified now—FAA A&P certification is your golden ticket to start building your career.
• Explore Your Options—Airlines, repair stations, charter operations, and military contracts — each offer different perks.
• Don’t settle—Do your homework and explore your career options. There is so much competition it’s up to you to pick what kind of job you want.
• Network—Industry connections = job leads. Get involved in aviation communities and job fairs. Join LinkedIn, join facebook groups, check out aviation maintenance on Reddit, and just plug in.
If you’re in A&P school, you’re on the right path. The industry isn’t just hiring—it needs you. Stay focused, keep learning, set yourself apart, and get ready to be the most needed and technically skilled tradesmen in the country.
Check out this Boeing forecast of industry growth
Tell us your thoughts!
Author: Sam