1. Will I be paid as an Apprentice Mechanic?
Yes. The Apprentice Mechanic is a full time, paid position with benefits (health insurance, 401K match, etc)
2. What schedule will I work?
Our facility stays open and functional at all hours of the day, nearly every day of the year. Most of our Apprentices work four days a week, ten hours per shift. Schedules are assigned to new apprentices based on the needs of the business.
3. What training will I receive?
All Apprentices receive two weeks of initial training in which they will learn the basics of aircraft maintenance. This is a combination of classroom and hands on shop time. After this, they are assigned to a crew and begin working in the hanger on live aircraft under the supervision of a lead mechanic.
4. Where are Apprenticeship positions located?
Most of our Apprentice Mechanic positions are in Everett, Washington. We also have some in Kansas City, Missouri and a few in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
5. How long does the program take?
There are three levels of Apprenticeship and each is designed to take about 6 months, for a total time of 18 months. However, this timeframe is only a guideline. Moving from one level to another is based on the Apprentices’ competency and may be a little faster or slower.
6. What happens after I graduate?
After an Apprentice completes the third level of Apprenticeship and graduates, they automatically become an Aircraft Mechanic (which comes with a pay raise) and continue working for ATS, usually for the same crew and lead as before.
7. Do I need to bring my own tools?
Yes. Apprentices are given a basic tool list that they are expected to bring and use for their work.
8. Can I obtain a certification with the Apprenticeship Program?
Yes. After a minimum of 18 months an Apprentice Mechanic may be eligible to become an FAA certificated Repairman. After this, a Mechanic may also become eligible to study for and test to become an FAA certificated Airframe Mechanic. ATS offers guidance in the process and reimbursement for testing fees.