Inside Aircraft Maintenance: High-Paying Careers & the Fight to Keep Talent

Most people think the trades have a pipeline problem. They’re wrong. In aircraft maintenance, we’re offering $75K–$100K careers… and still losing workers. In this episode, I sit down with Rob Cush from the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) to break down what’s really happening behind the scenes in one of the most critical skilled trades in the world. We get into: Why A&P mechanics are leaving for other industries (even with strong pay) The real issue: work-life balance vs. income How a $500–$2,000 testing barrier is costing the industry talent The shocking shortage of 40,000+ aircraft technicians by 2028 Why only 8.3% of military-trained mechanics stay in the industry How airlines are being forced to rethink schedules and career paths The massive opportunity to bring more women into the field (currently just 2.8%) What it actually takes to become an aircraft maintenance technician If you’ve ever considered a hands-on career — or you’re trying to understand why industries are struggling to hire — this episode will completely change how you see the skilled trades. 🎯 Who this is for: Students and career changers exploring the trades Parents trying to guide career decisions Employers struggling to hire and retain talent Anyone interested in high-paying, no-degree career paths 🛠️ What you’ll learn: How to get started in aircraft maintenance (step-by-step) What A&P school actually looks like (18–24 months, 1900 hours) Real career pathways (military, school, high school programs) The truth about pay vs. lifestyle in the trades 📊 Key stat: The average aircraft maintenance technician is 56–57 years old — and retirement is about to hit hard. ABOUT Rob Cush Rob Cush represents the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) and works directly in aircraft maintenance while advocating on Capitol Hill for the future of the industry. He brings a rare perspective — working inside the trade while shaping policy at the national level — with firsthand insight into workforce shortages, training gaps, and what it will actually take to rebuild the pipeline. 🔗 Connect with AMFA Learn more about careers, advocacy, and opportunities in aircraft maintenance: Website → https://www.amfanational.org LinkedIn →   / aircraft-mechanics-fraternal-association   🎙️ Follow Andrew Brown If you want real insight into skilled trades careers, workforce trends, and what’s actually happening on jobsites: TikTok →   / andrewbrowntrades   Instagram →   / andrewbrowntrades   LinkedIn →   / andrew-brown-b1736a5   Website → https://www.tradesmedia.net 🚀 Work With Andrew Brown If you're serious about fixing your workforce pipeline — not just talking about it: Keynotes • Live Event Podcasting • Gen Z Recruitment Campaigns → https://www.tradesmedia.net