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How to Build a Career in Aircraft Maintenance (FAA Certified, In-Demand)

How to Build a Career in Aircraft Maintenance (FAA Certified, In-Demand)

Author: Andrew Brown January 7, 2026 Duration: 44:27
The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades
BusinessCareersEducationEntrepreneurshipHow To

Aircraft maintenance is the backbone of aviation safety. Andrew Brown and Jason Pfaff break down the aircraft maintenance technician shortage, FAA A&P certification, and aviation careers.

Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jason Pfaff, CEO of the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, to explore the unseen world of aircraft maintenance and why the growing aircraft maintenance technician shortage is becoming a serious issue across the aviation industry.

They unpack what goes into keeping planes airworthy, why FAA A&P certification is one of the most rigorous credentials in the skilled trades, and how aviation maintenance school serves Gen Z, career changers, and hands-on problem solvers alike. The conversation also maps the long-term aviation mechanic career path, including pay progression, mobility, and opportunities beyond commercial airlines.

This episode is essential listening for anyone curious about Skilled Trades, the Trades Industry, or high-impact careers built on craftsmanship, precision, and responsibility.

IN THIS EPISODE

  1. (00:00) – Aircraft Maintenance Explained: What the public doesn’t see behind every flight
  2. (01:27) – The Aircraft Maintenance Technician Shortage: Why aviation is facing a workforce gap
  3. (08:17) – FAA A&P Certification: Why aviation mechanics are held to a higher standard
  4. (13:40) – Aviation Maintenance School: Program length, structure, and return on investment
  5. (18:56) – Career Placement & Mobility: Airlines, MROs, space, and advanced aerospace roles
  6. (26:05) – The Aviation Mechanic Career Path: Earnings, leadership tracks, and long-term growth

Key Takeaways

  1. Aircraft maintenance is a highly coordinated, safety-critical system that most passengers never notice—until something goes wrong.
  2. The aircraft maintenance technician shortage is structural, driven by retirements, reduced trade pipelines, and rising travel demand.
  3. FAA A&P certification provides standardized credibility, portability, and strong employer demand across aviation and aerospace.
  4. An aviation maintenance school pathway offers a high-ROI skilled trade with a scalable aviation mechanic career path.

About the Guest

Jason Pfaff is the CEO of the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, one of the nation’s largest aviation training organizations. He leads initiatives focused on workforce development, FAA-aligned education, and career placement across commercial aviation, MROs, and aerospace employers. Jason is a vocal advocate for Trades Careers, education access, and strengthening the skilled trades pipeline nationwide.

Keywords

Aircraft Maintenance, Aircraft Maintenance Technician Shortage, FAA A&P Certification, Aviation Maintenance School, Aviation Mechanic Career Path, Skilled Trades, Trades Industry, Trades Careers, Tradespeople, Craftsmanship, Problem-solving, Creativity, Advocacy, Education, Skilled Trades Advisory Council, Andrew Brown, Jason Pfaff, Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Carpentry, HVAC, Electricians, Plumbers, Millwrights, Construction, Contractors, Industry Experts

RESOURCE LINKS

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-pfaff-210a3578/

Website: https://aviationmaintenance.edu/

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There's a quiet revolution happening in the workforce, one built on the sound of a hammer, the hum of a saw, and the satisfaction of a job done with your own hands. The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades is a conversation about that shift, guided by Andrew Brown. This isn't just a technical manual; it's a deep exploration of the craft, business, and profound personal fulfillment found in skilled trades. Andrew draws from his own journey through hands-on work and entrepreneurship to frame discussions that are as much about building a life as they are about building things. Each episode connects the dots between practical skill, viable career paths, and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to thrive independently. You'll hear from seasoned professionals who share their hard-won wisdom, alongside discussions on navigating the business side of trades, from client relations to financial stability. The goal is to elevate the conversation around these essential careers, moving beyond stereotypes to highlight the creativity, critical thinking, and dignity inherent in skilled work. Tune into this podcast for honest stories, actionable advice, and a renewed appreciation for the foundational crafts that shape our world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades
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