Why You Should Get Your A&P License While Active Duty

Aviation maintenance has been your entire career during your service. You plan on retiring with it. Your transition date out of the military is either light years ahead of where you're at now, or it's coming up in a few short years. Either way, it doesn't have to be an impending car crash.

Whether you're trying to break into the upper echelon of ranks in your branch, or just get ready for your next chapter whenever that is, there's tons to consider. Know that you aren't alone and you have more in your toolbox than you think.

Aviation outside of the military

It's going to be different than what you were used to. Civil aviation is governed by the Federal Aviation Administration or the FAA. What does that mean? In order to have the scope of practice to sign off aircraft maintenance and restore airworthiness, an A&P License is required. Many management positions also list having an A&P as a job requirement.

Advancement and the A&P

In the soon, or later, transition out of military aviation you'll be faced with the nuances between the two worlds. Learning curve aside, choosing to stay in aviation as a career is a great option. So how does this fit into your plan for being selected as the next Chief, Gunnery Sergeant, Sergeant First Class, or Master Sergeant? How does it help you get considered for meritorious advancement or increase your score during the next advancement cycle?

Because having an A&P license counts as education points towards advancement.

Some states, like Florida, even count an A&P license as 60 or more credits towards an Aviation Maintenance Management Bachelor's degree program. Each school will have it's own allowances and requirements, so make sure you check with your prospective school. If they don't have any guidance, submit an appeal to the school for consideration.

Your Transition is Inevitable and

Is ultimately in your hands. It's great that you served, but no one is going to just hand you a job. At the end of the day, companies need qualified candidates. This means fulfilling the basic job requirements. Whether you choose to work in a:

• Business/Corporate Aviation
• General Aviation
• MRO Operation
• Manufacturing Facility
• Overhaul Facility

Environment, you need to have the civilian equivalent license, certification, training, experience, and/or education. Having your license before you actually start your transition out of the military is one less worry on your plate when you get there.

Aviation

It makes you happy, watching an aircraft take-off is a guaranteed smile, fixing airplanes, and teaching the next generation of aviators are all parts of your job that make it worth the effort. Why stop now?

You are like Queen. You're the champion of your own career.