Mechanics Being Drawn Away to Greener Pastures According to 1/3 of BizAv Operators

A survey by the National Business Aviation Association polled more than 270 operators and mechanic facilities, finding that many of their mechanic personnel are being lured to other industries by better pay, quality of life, and benefits.

In the survey, more than a third reported losing people to the phenomenon, with most seeing their people go on to larger aviation concerns like airlines or charter operators. More interestingly, the survey found, was that people were taking their hard-won AMT skills and certifications to other industries altogether. That's particularly worrisome for an industry that's already fairly shorthanded, since the AMT dearth will require 74,000 graduates just to keep the business industry going in 2032. 

"Leaving the aviation industry is becoming an increasingly common theme today," said Chris Broyhill, CEO of AirComp Calculator. "AMTs can make more money and have better working conditions wrenching on BMWs or Porsches, and they don't have the liability issues."

Of course, the NBAA has some wonderful advice for concerns looking to keep their talent in-house, and it starts just about how everyone would expect from an industry group: "It's not always about the money", they intone. That line just keeps cropping up in media lately, a nice little salve for companies having to make payroll in the current inflationary maelstrom. But those costs exist just as much for employees, too.

The NBAA says that sometimes, instead of a cost-of-living raise that allows employees to buy food or keep the lights on, it's as simple as a 'thanks'. 

"While it may be the overriding factor, money isn't always why people leave. Sometimes, they just don't feel like their efforts are recognized or fully appreciated. After all, broken biz jets aren't going anywhere, and a well-placed "thank you" can go a long way." While that advice is essentially feel-good nonsense in a world where rumored shadow stats describe a wince-worthy 25% inflation rate, the NBAA has better advice, too. Things like "flexible work schedules, increased professional development, and improved work environment" all strike true.

For those looking to lock down a particular talent, a job title can always help keep them around for longer, too. "Appointing them as the crew chief for a particular aircraft combines their technical knowledge with an increase in management or a supervisory role," Broyhill said. "If they feel responsible for the maintenance of that aircraft, it builds their feeling of contributing to the operation's success."

FMI: www.nbaa.org