One thing we hear about on the road at trade shows, seminars, and conferences is the “age problem”. While true—yes, mechanics ain’t getting any younger—we see POSITIVE TRENDS in the data, suggesting a resurgence in new blood that is countering the "old age" doom and gloom demographic charts shuffled around at conferences (case in point: see chart below from Oliver Wyman's 2023 ARSA Report):

Every year, the number of Part 147 (AMTS) schools continues to creep upwards. Currently, we’re seeing about one new school pop up every month. This is highly positive, given that over 2/3 of A&P certificated mechanics are coming out of a school, with the other 1/3 relying on the apprenticeship path (GAO Analysis).

Current test data supports the thesis that more A&Ps are entering the workforce. Currently, the number of tests taken in 2024 was double the number taken just four years earlier, and the highest ever on record (for data collected by the FAA). Enrollments are also up, noted by Oliver Wyman in their most recent pipeline report.

Mechanic certificates issued has also been jumping upward. In 2023 (the most recent year we have data for) we saw nearly a 50% jump in certificates issued: nearly 10,000 vs. the 10-year average of 6.5k. Total number of certificates continues to creep up (well over 300k).

Where is this newfound growth coming from? From our perspective, the recent reforms to Part 147 have been a huge catalyst in allowing schools to add additional locations, change curriculum without FAA approvals, and introduce new teaching technologies. The elimination of classroom "seat time" mandates has also been instrumental, giving students the opportunity to learn on the job and outside of the classroom (i.e. virtual training).

Given the recent increase in enrollments (up 6% year-over-year), it seems that Gen Zers are also opting for mechanic school over the traditional 4-year college, a trend seen across the board given the ever-rising cost of a traditional 4-year college education.

These are reasons to be bullish and part of why we launched an Academic license to schools earlier this year, offering features specific to schools where instructors can see and check students’ work. As a longtime supporter of schools, we’re excited for the opportunity to continue advancing this realm and help support the next generation of GA mechanics.

If you're involved with a school and are interested in learning more about how we can support your school, please contact us today!

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