Veteran Mechanics and Students

Learning Side-By-Side

Packing up their instructor’s truck and leaving Indianapolis at three o’clock in the morning for a trip to Ohio was the beginning of a great opportunity for three AIM – Indianapolis aircraft mechanic students in March.

John Guth, Kirby Pinkham and Jon Charter, all exemplary students at AIM – Indianapolis, joined their 12+ year veteran Licensed A&P instructor, Jason Jackson, for a day of advanced FAA training. Mr. Jackson is also a licensed private pilot and an IA.

The band of early risers was headed to Columbus, Ohio – roughly a four-hour trip from Indianapolis. They were going there to attend the Ohio Aviation Maintenance Symposium. The FAA hosted the symposium - designed to meet the requirements for IA (Inspection Authorization) Rating Renewal Training. Several hundred aircraft mechanics, pilots, aviation maintenance professionals and corporate vendor representatives attended.

Each of the participants had the opportunity to attend various training sessions. Some of the subjects of training offered included: Exhaust System Inspections & Repair, Propeller Maintenance and Updates, Fuel Cell Maintenance, Review of FAR’s Related to Aircraft Interiors, Computerized Maintenance Research, Logbooks & Tracking, Piston Engines and many others. Mr. Jackson and his students attended several of the lectures.

Here is part of what the participants had to say about the trip:

“I feel like I have learned quite a bit here [at AIM] and I got to show it there.” – Kirby Pinkham

“Everything we’ve been taught, so far, is exactly what the industry is doing.” – Jon Charter

“It was very educational. It was nice to meet the people who actually work with this stuff everyday.” – John Guth

In addition to the excellent networking opportunities, additional insight into their chosen field of mechanic training, great resume building event and a free lunch, all four of the attendees are eligible to receive an AMT Training Award (Bronze Star Level) from the FAA for completing the training! Another great addition to the resume – when it comes time for graduation and job hunting.

Everyone at AIM – Indianapolis is proud to have our name associated with these fine representatives. Thanks to their efforts, hundreds of fellow aviation maintenance professionals witnessed the professionalism, dedication and commitment to excellence AIM students exhibit.