Story ID: 
NATA Launches Aviation Mx Apprenticeship Tracking Tool
By: Jessica Reed
Caption: The tool assists members with developing aviation maintenance technician applicants
Word Count: 228
The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has launched the NATA Aviation Apprenticeship Tracking Tool to streamline the process of developing well-documented aviation maintenance technician applicants who are ready for testing. The tool, created in collaboration with the organization's Maintenance Committee, is available only to NATA members and provides a structured approach to recording the on-the-job tasks mandated to fulfill the prerequisites for FAA Form 8610-2.
Structured as an Excel document, the tool aligns with the FAA Aviation Mechanic General, Airframe, and Powerplant Airman Certification Standards (FAA-S-ACS-1). It facilitates the visibility of an applicant's progress and also provides a clear pathway to obtaining an FAA aviation mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant privileges in approximately 30 months or privileges in either airframe or powerplant in about 18 months.
“NATA is pleased to support a member-driven resource that follows FAA guidance to provide a more comprehensive pathway to employee mechanic certification," said association president and CEO Curt Castagna. “The NATA Aviation Apprenticeship Tracking Tool prepares an applicant to return to an MRO as an FAA-certificated aircraft mechanic more expediently and efficiently with credible training, real-world experience, and profit-making ability.”
This tool offers multiple benefits, including an FAA-recognized format for documenting hands-on experience across all necessary segments for testing qualification, as well as tracking capabilities for technicians ranging from piston- to turbine-based systems.