Aircraft sheet metal mechanic?

Question

How long does it take to get sheet metal mechanic certification

Answer 1

I was an aircraft structural repairman in the USAF, which is essentially a sheet metal mechanic.   We went through 16 weeks of tech school and of course after that we had continuous on the job training.   Was always learning new things.

Answer 2

If you want to actually be certified for it, it takes something like 1500 hours of training to complete. An A&P takes 3000 I believe, and takes anywhere from 14-20 months.

You can get an A&P certification for as little as $6500, I believe Broward CC in Florida is about that much. The big part is living expenses while you go to school.

You could decide to work under an A&P and then go for testing, but you would probably be a little better off doing it through a school because a normal A&P isnt going to be able to run you through each of the specific things you need to know like a school will, he will only be able to teach you as things come in to the shop.

Without a doubt you should go for your full A&P, and maybe your avionics, because it increases your chance of getting a job exponentially if you are multi talented, like any good job.

Answer 3

You don't need certification to do just sheet metal repairs, if you work in a shop supervised by a licensed airframe mechanic, or A&P.  The licensed mechanic will inspect your work to insure it meets the standards for airworthiness, and then he will sign off the work order for you.

Answer 4

if you like this field do yourself a favor and go to A&P school, you'll get the respect and the salary even if you are only doing sheetmetal work, which by the way you'll only master with many years on the job. Sheetmetal techs are like artists if you will but require a great deal of knowledge in math geometry, chemistry, creativity and being an expert with tools