As new and more complex aircraft are designed, more employers are requiring mechanics to take on-going training, to update their skills. FAA certification standards also make ongoing training mandatory. Every 24 months, mechanics are required to take at least 16 hours of training to keep their certificate. Many mechanics take courses offered by manufacturers or employers, usually through outside contractors. Aircraft mechanics must do careful and thorough work that requires a high degree of mechanical aptitude.
Agility is important for the reaching and climbing necessary for the job.
Because they may work on the top of wings and fuselages on large jet planes, aircraft mechanics must not be afraid of heights. Opportunities are best for those who have an aircraft inspector's authorization. In the airlines, where promotion is often determined by examination, supervisors sometimes advance to executive positions. With additional business and management training, some open their own aircraft maintenance facilities. Mechanics learn many different skills in their training that can be applied to other jobs, and some transfer to other skilled repairer occupations or electronics technician jobs.