How can you make yourself a more competitive mechanics professional?

In my experience, (Aircraft Mechanic). Certifications are mandatory and allow the FAA to regulate who performs work on aircraft. There is the basic Airframe and Power-plant ratings. However there are many sub ratings that aren’t necessarily FAA mandated however certification on things like engine run and taxi, RII or NDT to name a few puts your skill set above other mechanics who have the same A&P rating you may have. These certifications can entitle you to better pay or make you more attractive to other employers.

One way to become professional in the area is to use CAE software for finite element analysis. There are different types but it is a reality that to learn you must have prior knowledge of the subject. I highly recommend Solidworks and Ansys mechanical for people who are just beginning to learn, in this way they can carry out simulations that can be transformed into real projects applied in the industry.

In my experience being an aircraft mechanic is a never ending learning experience as we work on all systems of the aircraft and the manufacturers are constantly updating the aircraft designs to improve safety and general performance of the machines. Learning how to operate with new testing equipment or tooling is not only beneficial to your growth as an A&P but it may be mandatory as well.

Aviation maintenance can be a very big world with the different styles of aircraft we operate on. In the USA the standard for mechanic certification in aviation is a standard license that lets you work on anything from big commercial jets to hot air balloons. That being said it is also a small world and a very unique world the things aircraft mechanics deal with on a daily basis can be very different to other standard trades where we have such a high need for quality and safety in our work. Networking with other technicians in aviation can be a valuable resource to grow our niche skill set.

I agree. And I certainly keep a track of my work experience however, it may not always be appropriate to share that information publicly. It’s definitely worthwhile checking with your employer on whether the content you are sharing is appropriate. Keeping a private portfolio is a great thing to prove your experience that can be referenced in interviews for new employment or even promotion at your current employer.

Feed back is vital to any professional. There is always room for improvement and also in aviation maintenance there is a safety factor in feedback. There are many tiers and aircraft has to pass through after maintenance to be returned to service and if the the entire process isn’t perfect from receiving the aircraft to watching the crew climb on board to depart the aircraft it can lead to delays which can negatively affect the air carrier. Checking each other’s work is a healthy and also sometimes mandated task that all mechanics should be open to.