Employers prefer mechanics who can perform a wide variety of tasks. Mechanics learn many different skills in their training. These skills can be applied to other jobs. Some aircraft mechanics in the Armed Forces acquire enough general experience to satisfy the work experience requirements for the FAA certificate. With additional study, they may pass the certifying exam.
Most mechanics have to complete the entire training program at a trade school.
However, a few receive some credit for the skills they learned in the Armed Forces. In any case, military experience is a great advantage when seeking employment. Employers consider trade school graduates who have this experience to be the most desirable applicants. Courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, electronics, computer science, and mechanical drawing are helpful. Many of these are involved in the operation of an aircraft and knowledge in these areas is often necessary to make repairs.