Airplane Assemblers

Education & Training

Preparation

To work as an airplane assembler, you typically need to:

have a high school diploma or GED; and
complete moderate-term on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Some airplane assemblers learn their skills at a professional-technical school or a two-year college. Aviation maintenance programs are good preparation for this occupation. These programs teach you to repair airplanes. Manufacturing technology programs also can prepare you to work in this occupation.

On-the-job training

Many airplane assemblers learn their skills on the job from experienced workers. You start out doing simple tasks and gradually learn more complex skills as you gain experience. It takes up to one year to learn all skills. Training includes:

blueprint reading;
using tools and equipment; and
making detailed measurements.

Military training

The military trains people to be aircraft mechanics. Training lasts three to 17 weeks, depending on the specialty. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. The experience you gain as a mechanic should transfer to assembling airplanes.

Related Programs (Current training programs available)

Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)

Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.

Helpful High School Courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:

Blueprint Reading
Diesel Mechanics and Repair
Electronics
Introduction to Mechanics

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.

Source: Minnesota Department of Education.