Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Technician Review

The first 12 months are focused on completing the modules required for a Cat A, CAA licence for aircraft engineers. We learn the modules one at a time, so most days are spend in a classroom being taught the theory for the upcoming exam, after which we move onto the next module. In between theory modules we will get several weeks either in metal workshops or on the hangar floor working on training aircraft improving our hand skills for the future job position.

I have learnt lots of new skills involved in hands-on engineering and aircraft maintenance. I have also learnt lots of information about how aircraft function and what goes into maintaining them. The first 12 months are entirely focused on training for the future job requirements

I have mostly enjoyed the program, but the theory is very technical and delivered at a fast pace. This can make it become very tiring and draining when doing class work for weeks/months straight. The practical side is much more enjoyable. Most of my colleagues and instructors are very friendly and easy to work with.

The program is initially structured very well, however it requires constant changing to the schedule and this can have large knock on effects. There is sometimes a distinct lack of communication from the management team which can leave us chasing up for important information.

The support system in place is pretty good. The company has several support programs including several helplines and places to report and professional and personal issues you may be experiencing. Quarterly meetings are had with the management team to ensure you know how you are progressing in your program. But sometimes complaints directly to the management team seem to be lost in communication or ignored, and some managers are better at acting on issues than others.

Most instructors are keen to help students pass the exams they are instructing for, but it doesn't seem to go much higher than that. The local management team will be notified and try to offer support if you are struggling, but there isn't an official process for it.

Some of our theory is very relevant to our future day to day roles, as is most of our practical work, but a lot of the theory isn't relevant at all to the type of aircraft we will be working on in our roles.

There may be company events, and there is several newsletters sent out regularly, but it isn't something I've looked into, and there isn't anything at my current site. The theory is intensive so free time is often taken up by studying

Yes

The company is a well trusted, well established company with many job roles on offer across nearly every sector of work, with hundreds of apprenticeships and opportunities.

In my job role, the first 12 months are very hard work and require a lot of dedication. Once past this is gets easier and more open with lots of opportunities to progress. The application progress is tough and very competitive.