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Aviation mechanics are in demand, due to labor shortage : NPR
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- Graduates from the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) aviation maintenance program take the FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification test on graduation day, with 47 of 54 passing on their first attempt, enabling them to enter a high-demand job market.
- The aviation maintenance field faces a significant labor shortage, with an expected need for 123,000 new technicians in North America by 2044, and offers competitive wages with a median salary of $79,140 in 2024.
- PIA's program combines classroom learning with hands-on experience on older aircraft, attracting a diverse student body including veterans and career changers, with many graduates securing jobs at regional and major airlines or aerospace companies.
- Despite the program's cost of about $42,000, PIA graduates earn a median income of $80,825 four years after graduation, more than double that of other certificate-level colleges, and financial aid options are available to students.
- Interest in aviation maintenance programs like PIA has surged, leading to waitlists and capacity concerns; school officials encourage prospective students to apply promptly due to growing awareness and demand for skilled technicians.
