Mechanic Workforce Pipeline Flow Increasing, But Demand Still Outpacing Supply
The 2024 Pipeline Report from the Aviation Technical Education Council (ATEC) and Oliver Wyman highlights progress and challenges in addressing the U.S. aviation maintenance workforce shortage. While strides are being made, demand for certified mechanics continues to outpace supply.
Key Highlights
- New Certifications Surge: Mechanic certifications rose by 32% in 2023 to a record 9,400, ending a three-year deferral trend.
- Increased Enrollment: Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools (AMTS) saw a 6% rise in enrollment.
- Veteran Contributions Grow: FAA A&P certifications among veterans increased by 32% in 2023.
Ongoing Challenges
- Shortage Worsening: The current 9% mechanic shortfall could reach 20% (25,000 mechanics) by 2028.
- Resource Gaps: AMTS programs operate at only 65% capacity due to instructor and resource shortages.
- Underrepresentation: Women make up just 2.8% of the mechanic workforce, though representation among new certificants is improving slightly.
Addressing the Gaps
- Expand Veteran Participation: Of 22,000 veterans leaving military aviation maintenance annually, only 1,500 pursue A&P certification.
- Boost DME Availability: FAA efforts to increase Designated Mechanic Examiners (DMEs) could ease certification bottlenecks by next year.
- Fill AMTS Seats: Nationally, 12,000 AMTS seats remain unfilled, requiring awareness campaigns and more resources.
Call to Action
“We are seeing positive changes in the aviation technician workforce pipeline,” said ATEC Executive Director Crystal Maguire. “But retirements and aviation’s growth mean demand still outpaces supply. ATEC is focused on tapping resources like veterans and under-represented groups while removing pathway hurdles like instructor shortages.”
The 2024 Pipeline Report underscores the need for continued efforts to strengthen the workforce and meet growing industry demands.