Complete high school courses such as English, electronics and algebra, according to CollegeBoard.com. Also, take advantage of courses including physics, chemistry, mechanical drawing and computer science, which cover concepts you will use when performing repairs on airplanes, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, master your writing skills because you often will have to produce reports related to your aircraft repairs.
Look for a certificate or degree training program that is certified by the FAA, which will require you to complete at least 1,900 hours of study. A certificate program lasts anywhere from one to two years, while an associate degree program is two years long and a bachelor's degree program requires four years of study. Degree programs that prepare you to work in aviation mechanics focus on aviation technology or avionics. Many employers actually are beginning to require mechanics to have a degree versus a certificate, according to StateUniversity.com. Also, look for a program that focuses on the specialty area in which you are interested, such as airframe mechanics or power plant/engine mechanics.
Apply to your desired aviation mechanics training program. You will need to submit your high school diploma or GED in addition to completing your school's enrollment application. Schools also might require you to submit transcripts from high school and to have completed courses in math, science and a social science/history, according to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida.
Complete courses that cover topics such as airframe electricity, aircraft materials, fuel systems, instrument systems and turbine engines, according to Education-Portal.com. In addition, study landing-gear systems, aircraft propulsion systems and aircraft maintenance regulations.
Get hands-on training with using tools to repair and inspect aircraft, according to Redstone College in Colorado. For example, practice using precision instruments to check aircraft parts for deterioration. Your classroom instruction and field training will prepare you for the written, oral and practical licensing tests you will need to pass to become certified in this field through the FAA. Maintaining this certification then will involve completing 1,000 hours of work experience and 16 hours of training every two years.