Aviation & Aerospace
The aviation and aerospace industry is one of the fastest growing industries both in Canada and in the world. The aviation maintenance sector is expanding in step with the industry’s growth.
Canada is well known for its expertise in maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft and aircraft systems and components. Canadian firms provide high quality, reliable and competitive maintenance services for both military and commercial aircraft for customers around the world.
The aviation maintenance and aerospace manufacturing sector in Canada is made up of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Approved Maintenance Organizations (AMOs), and Air Operators that offer third-party maintenance services.
Working in Aviation & Aerospace
This sector requires machinists, designers, mechanics, technologists, engineers and inspectors with specialized knowledge and skill sets in diverse fields, such as physics, chemistry, hydraulics, pneumatics, metallurgy, avionics, gas dynamics or microelectronics.
Work performed in this industry must meet rigorous quality assurance standards. Canadian firms use cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art equipment, and adhere strictly to industry standards. Canada has a globally recognized safety regulation system.
Hourly wages for most jobs are above the Canadian average. Careers are available in both the civil and military workforce. There are many career advancement opportunities and workers report a high level of job satisfaction.
Skills gained in the industry are transferable throughout Canada.
Skills & Training
Most occupations in the sector require solid computer knowledge, a college certificate or university degree, excellent manual skills, good written and spoken communication skills, and ability in document use.
Many different certificate or diploma aviation programs are taught at colleges across Canada, and aerospace engineering programs are offered at many Canadian universities. Voluntary industry certification for 24 licensed and non-licensed trades is available from the Canadian Aviation Maintenance Council (CAMC). This certification documents the highest degree of professional competence.
All maintenance completed on aircraft must be certified by aircraft maintenance engineers (AMEs) that are licensed by Transport Canada. AME training, experience and examination requirements are specified by licence category: Maintenance (M1 and M2), Structures (S) or Avionics (E).