Discover LIFT Academy’s AMT Apprenticeship Program

At LIFT Academy, we train more than just future pilots — we also train talented Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs). Developed in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Labor, the AMT Apprenticeship Program is designed to help launch the careers of the next generation of AMTs. We sat down with Sean Gallinat, Director of Maintenance, and Joey Leach, Manager AMT Development, A&P Mechanic and program graduate, to discuss the details of this exciting program.

What to Expect

When people picture jobs in the aviation industry, they often think of pilots and flight attendants, but AMTs are always hard at work behind the scenes supporting the entire operation. This crucial and fulfilling role can set you up for long-term success, as demand is high and there are many opportunities for growth.

“This apprenticeship is so much more than learning how to turn a wrench,” said Sean. “It’s about building a lasting career in a thriving industry.”

The AMT Apprenticeship program trains apprentices with state-of-the-art tools, technology and aircraft to prepare them for a robust career in the aviation industry. This includes gaining experience with diesel engines and glass G1000 AVIONICS systems, and the importance of proper documentation.

In particular, we train apprentices to be “Republic-ready.” That means they’ll hit the ground running if they land at Republic Airways after graduation. The aircraft we use for training are a big part of how we prepare them. Apprentices train on LIFT’s all-Diamond fleet and Republic’s all-Embraer fleet, giving them relevant experience that will translate to their careers no matter where they go.

“What’s great about the program here is that our apprentices are well-prepared for a career anywhere,” said Sean. “We’ve had people move on to Republic, ones that have stayed with LIFT, and others that have gone on to the mainlines.

The “Classroom”

Hangars are not your typical classroom setting, but they’re the perfect place for a hands-on education. It’s where you’ll have your lessons each day and get to know your instructors.

One of the program’s biggest benefits is its apprentice-to-instructor ratio. Each LIFT mechanic has no more than two apprentices, giving apprentices the kind of hands-on, focused training that this meticulous job requires.

“That kind of one-on-one training is invaluable,” said Sean. “It allows our expert mechanics to transfer their knowledge directly to you.”

LIFT Academy prides itself on having an in-house maintenance team, as it ensures there are always planes available to pilots-in-training. It also allows AMT apprentices to build relationships with those students in the hangar.

“The work we do has real-world implications,” said Joey. “Students fly the planes we work on, so that relationship adds an extra layer of motivation to go above and beyond.”

The Pay & Benefits

You may be surprised to learn that the LIFT AMT Apprenticeship Program is not only free, but you’ll actually get paid to train. On top of that, apprentices receive paid time off as well as medical, dental and vision benefits.

“This is a fantastic opportunity,” said Sean. “It gives people a head start on their career financially. AMTs can reach a high-earning potential within just a few years.”

Regarding program costs, LIFT Academy provides the tools you’ll need for free, though some apprentices choose to buy their own.

The Timeline

The AMT program consists of 30 months of hands-on training. FAA guidelines determine that timeline, and while it may sound long to some, it’s a well-paced schedule that allows us to provide apprentices with a thorough, quality education.

“It takes less time than a traditional four-year degree,” said Joey. “Except this way, you don’t have to worry about tuition costs.”

Following those 30 months, the program concludes with five weeks of test preparation to help apprentices ace their A&P FAA exams to earn their certification. All paid for by LIFT Academy.

The Requirements

You don’t need a degree or any previous mechanical experience to enroll in the program, but it certainly helps if you have some relevant experience under your belt already. You will, however, need to be able to speak English, have your high school diploma and be ready to put the work in.

“You don’t need a mechanical background,” said Sean. “But you need to come ready to learn and work every day. We can only teach you as much as you want to learn.”

Applications are accepted several times throughout the year, giving you some flexibility on when you can start the program.

“I’ve been in the Navy, I’ve worked as a biologist and chemist, and this is easily my favorite job I’ve had,” said Joey. “If I could turn back time to when I graduated high school, I would’ve come straight to this program.”

Sound like the right program for you?
Learn more or apply today.