Warbird Information Exchange

Unless it's changed, the requirement is 22 months of school, or 30 months of on the job training before being allowed to take the FAA exams. I also got my license through the on the job training, starting out my career by working at a prop shop and washing airplanes. I then "moved up" to panel puller, bearing packer, and spark plug cleaner at a scumbag flight school.

Unfortunately, there's nothing very glamorous about starting out as an airplane mechanic. The old saying used to be "small airplanes, small money...big airplanes, big money," but with the state of the airlines these days, I'm not sure that even applies anymore. I know quite a few folks who went to school and got jobs right away in the airline industry, and are doing quite well. However, the majority of folks who try this line of work end up not being able to hang in there due to financial constraints, lack of life, etc. The only reason I was able to get as far along as I have (and I'm still broke), is because I've never had a family to support......well, and I'm a little hard-headed.

Getting involved with Warbirds (if that's what your goals are) takes lots of commitment and a fair amount of luck as well. You've got to find a group of folks with the ol' airplanes that not only appreciates your efforts, but are also willing to trust you with their equipment. Naturally, this takes time, but if you can find someone who knows your heart is in it, then you need to feed off of them and learn everything you possibly can. I had a great group of folks in Memphis, TN that allowed me to do just that, not to mention the unbelievable experiences I had while working for Nelson Ezell, in Breckenridge, TX.

I hope some of this helps you with your goals.

Gary