Career Advice In Aviation Industry

Par1

Hi All

I was wondering if an aviation engineer/mechanic would be a good job to pursue. The advice i need is at the age of 32 is it too late to start now - are younger persons more sought after?
I have a background in electrical engineering which is not directly related to aviation but i understand the concept of electrical and engineering.
Finally is it possible to get a start somewhere in Dublin? education wise - that would benefit me in getting my foot in the door in aviation maintenance. Iv read a little on B1 and B2 licences and they seem realistic to me and within my realm of possibility as i think once i put my mind to something then i can do it.

I would bacically like to start in maintenance doing anything and hopefully work my way up accordingly.

Cheers guys - any help greatly appreciated

Stovepipe

Go and talk to one of the DITs that does B1 courses; you'll also need to do OJT so ask them about it...you probably earn more in the field you're in now.

Par1

Thanks for reply stovepipe

Il give DIT a call and see what they have to offer, i don't really mind the financial end of things as i live a fairly modest lifestyle and don't have major overheads. Would you think the only way into a job in aviation maintenance is with the education first or is it possible to get a position then work and attend college together?.

kona

Realistically the only way is via a apprenticeship or a traineeship.

There's degrees you can do but you won't be on tools with them, it would be behind a desk.

The big thing is the ojt , doing the exams yourself requires 4 years ojt in a 145 environment.
The ojt reduces if you do your course in a 147 approved school.

Stovepipe

You can get mature person apprenticeships. We have had older apprentos in Lingus so it's not undoable. It's a heavy hit on the pocket, though. Like I said, the end result is not often worth the effort as wages have been driven down in maintenance and retention is poor and career progression is slow. It's certainly not all it's cracked up to be and nights and shift work is tough. Think carefully about it and get lots of info before you commit.

Par1

Thanks All for replies