Aviation Specialties Unlimited Opens A&P Preparation Course in Boise

Jan. 14, 2022

Aviation Specialties Unlimited Inc., (ASU) in Boise, Idaho, announced the company launched a new Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) preparation course to help students prepare and test for their FAA Certification.

ASU’s new accelerated program is located at the new ASU Academy near the Boise Airport at 3559 W. Wright St., Boise, Idaho. The three-week course is designed for aircraft mechanics that meet the eligibility requirements to prepare them to pass the A&P written, oral, and practical exams and earn their FAA certificate.

Registration is open for courses in February and after. Students that register by the end of January will receive a $200 credit towards tuition costs. The ASU Academy course is recognized by the U.S. Army and Air Force Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) programs. This is a significant benefit to servicemembers who may be transitioning to the civilian aviation industry

“Our industry is experiencing a significant shortage of mechanics,” said Mike Atwood. “There are many apprentices, mechanics, and members of the military transitioning into the civilian workforce with years of experience, but they need the certifications to further their careers as A&P mechanics. We are in the heart of an aviation hub in the Pacific Northwest. We felt the time was now to launch this school to help our industry recruit new workers to fill a void.”

This structured course assumes that students have the requisite experience and knowledge base to earn an FAA certificate. It is not a Part 147 school designed to train students to be fully FAA certified mechanics. ASU has designed the course to build on students' previous knowledge and experience and enhance preparation for the General, Airframe, and Powerplant written, oral, and practical exams. The ASU staff will guide students to study and give them the tools and resources needed to succeed. Instruction will focus on subject areas that tend to challenge candidates on the exams. ASU's staff will dedicate time to help any particular areas that are challenging students.

“ASU’s school will help skilled, driven mechanics secure good jobs and earn better pay,” said ASU Director of Aviation Services Chris Schoonover. "This is a great program for military mechanics transitioning to the civil workforce and for experienced mechanics or repairmen wanting to advance their career in the aviation industry. The average salary of an A&P mechanic, depending on location and experience, is $70,000 to 90,000. With the current job environment and demand, graduates can have a great opportunity for a long and successful career.”

The ideal candidate for this course must meet 14 CFR Part 65.77 requirements before enrolling. This includes at least 18 months of practical experience maintaining, or altering airframes, or powerplants appropriate to the rating sought or have at least 30 months of practical experience concurrently performing the duties appropriate to both the airframe and powerplant ratings.

For more information about course dates, requirements or enrollment, visit www.asu-prep.com or visit ASU at Heli-Expo in Dallas, March 7-10, Booth 5104. An official ASU Academy ribbon cutting and open house is scheduled for April.