The Best Ever Time to be an Aviation Maintenance Engineer

The Boeing Commercial Market Outlook 2019-2038 suggested that the air travel market is projected to double up its size over the next 20 years, increasing the demand of pilots, maintenance technicians and cabin crew like never before in history.As far as it concerns to the area of maintenance, it seems the industry will not have sufficient talents to meet this demand. Just in the United States it is predicted a gap between the demand of engineers and its supply of 9% by 2027 (see figure 1).

Figure 1. Forecasted demand of AMMTEs for the next ten years in US

Reducing this gap will require a lot of work, considering the speed of leaving the industry is faster than the speed of getting into it. In the matter, a student whose aim is to start a career as an aircraft engineer must begin by undertaking theoretical training of two years and four months with one year of practical training to get a “License CAT A” which allows technicians to realise some basic tasks. To achieve the second level in the hierarchy: “License CAT B”, it is required to complete all B1 modules and additional two years of practical experience. Eventually, to reach the position of supervisor: “License CAT C” it is needed to complete 7 years of certified experience.

On the other hand, the average age of aircraft engineers is 51 years and the retirement age varies between 62 and 66 years depending on the country and the individual conditions. It means that over the coming years several thousands of engineers will leave the industry while their successors are still under training.

Additionally, when we think about the expansion of the training programme, the situation gets even more critical. The rapid evolution of aviation is demanding the current and future AMMTEs to familiarise with the sophisticated avionics systems and the handling of new composites instead of the traditional sheet metal in the aircraft structure. The development of these new skills demands more time and dedication from the students.

David George, CEO at Brookfield Aviation International said: “There has not been a better time to start a career in aircraft maintenance. However, it is vital that any student of aeronautical engineering is trained on an internationally recognised course and in the best available facility. There is no place in this industry for a 70% proficient engineer. Lives are at stake.”

The career of aeronautical engineering is long and demanding. However, it is being highly rewarded particularly in this period of talent shortage. In Brookfield, during the last twelve months it has been noticed an increment in the demand for AMMTEs worldwide and as a result, airlines and MROs are expanding their benefits and salaries aiming to attract the best talents.

In this way from Brookfield, we welcome applications from engineers at all levels – experienced and supervisory, or entry level. We have interesting worldwide professional contracts and the very best training opportunities for newcomers. If you are interested to register, please visit our maintenance and engineering job board by clicking here and create a profile with us by following this link. This is the best way to keep you posted about any opportunity that might be of interest to you.

Also, If your airline or MRO is looking for support in the recruitment and supply of maintenance personnel please contact us at engineers@brookfieldav.com. We are connected to the very best talents at every level. Our representatives will be happy to arrange a telephone interview or a face to face meeting at your convenience to expand our catalogue of services.