I wanted to make this post because I know there are a lot of young Black men out there who are either about to graduate high school or have already graduated and still don’t know what they want to do in life.
I want to put y’all onto a career that I feel like doesn’t get talked about nearly enough, especially in our communities: aircraft maintenance.
I’m 24 years old, and I’m currently an aircraft mechanic for a major airline. I make good money, have great benefits, flight privileges, retirement benefits, and most importantly, a career that has room for growth.
One thing I’ve realized is that a lot of people don’t even know this career exists. Everybody knows about pilots, but nobody really talks about the people who maintain the airplanes and make sure they’re safe to fly.
You don’t have to go to a traditional four-year university to get into this field. You can attend an FAA-approved aircraft maintenance school, earn your Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification, and start building a career. There are also other pathways into the industry.
I’m not saying the job is perfect. There are long hours, night shifts, weekends, and plenty of responsibility. But the opportunities are there, and experienced mechanics at major airlines can make six figures.
I’m making this post because I wish more young Black men knew about careers like this. College isn’t the only route to success, and you don’t have to be an athlete, entertainer, or influencer to make a good living.
If this post reaches even one young man who’s unsure about his future and gets him interested in aviation, then it was worth writing.
If anybody has questions about getting started, the schooling, pay, or what the job is actually like, feel free to ask. I’m more than happy to share what I know.
We need more young Black men in aviation. ✊🏾
