Continental Factory Training Course

[Jdm]

Has anyone here attended the Continental Aviation Technician Factory Training Course? Level 1 is a 5 day class held in Mobile, AL.
Seems to be a pretty good refresher and meets the requirements for IA renewal credit.
It’s a bit pricey though. Just wondering how beneficial the class might be for a GA mechanic who works on IO520 and 550 engines? According to the program director most the attendees are there for recurrent training as provided by a large shop.

 

[Bell206]

Just wondering how beneficial the class might be for a GA mechanic who works on IO520 and 550 engines?

Any formal mx training is beneficial. Never did the TCM course but have done several Lycoming training seminars and various helicopter/engine OEM schools for the day job and my side business. And yes it is set up more to the 135 side due to recurrent requirements than to a private mechanic. But a couple $1000 for factory training is a drop in the bucket in the big picture. In most cases you also meet new people and expand your mx network as well. Perhaps get creative with your taxes or form Jdm Aviation LLC and write it off as a business expense? Its the route I took if a customer didn't pitch in to pay for it or some of it.

 

[Jdm]

Thanks for the insight. I’ll definitely try to write it off. Don’t think that’ll be a tax issue even without having an LLC. I’ve done very little side work this year. Still, an LLC at some point is probably best. Could be a good side situation during retirement.
Hopefully the TCM class will be of good quality. I’m more interested in learning the material than satisfying reg requirements.

 

[Bell206]

Don’t think that’ll be a tax issue even without having an LLC.

Everyone's situation is different, but when I went the LLC route 24 years ago, it simplified what I could write off and how. Plus with the right company name it can give your side business a better presentation. Couple that with its own business checking account and it will give you a solid foundation to build on. IMO its a no-brainer to create your LLC now regardless of where you're at..

 

[Magman]

My belief is there is a lot of good pilots and techs that are severely lacking

in the business realm. It would probably be helpful if there were more

posts on this topic. Bell kicked off on it. Perhaps others will join in.

 

[Jdm]

Everyone's situation is different, but when I went the LLC route 24 years ago, it simplified what I could write off and how. Plus with the right company name it can give your side business a better presentation. Couple that with its own business checking account and it will give you a solid foundation to build on. IMO its a no-brainer to create your LLC now regardless of where you're at..

Good to know that it simplifies things. I wasn’t expecting an LLC to simplify anything. Sooner will be on my mind now.

 

[WDD]

Has anyone here attended the Continental Aviation Technician Factory Training Course? Level 1 is a 5 day class held in Mobile, AL.
Seems to be a pretty good refresher and meets the requirements for IA renewal credit.
It’s a bit pricey though. Just wondering how beneficial the class might be for a GA mechanic who works on IO520 and 550 engines? According to the program director most the attendees are there for recurrent training as provided by a large shop.

Looking at the syllabus, Level 2 seems to provide more usable information. Thoughts?

 

[Tokirbymd]

As a very mechanical inclined private pilot who does a lot of my own maintenance (under supervision) I've wondered about taking the course myself. I would love to learn more about my engine and maybe even teach my Lycoming hearted A&P a thing or 2.

 

[Jdm]

Looking at the syllabus, Level 2 seems to provide more usable information. Thoughts?

According to the program manager It’s a requirement to complete level 1 before advancing to level 2.
I think level 1 is more useful anyway but that’ll depend on your situation. Level 1 covers all the common problems, cylinders, accessories, rigging, inspection, etc. I’m told a number of factory techs and reps will speak on critical topics. That’s much more beneficial for me than splitting a case and reassembling. Sure, that’s fun and educational but the reality is I’m not going to be doing that for hire. Also, I’ve done a few overhauls many years ago. If you want a good view of the insides take the factory tour. I’m assuming TCM still offers the big start to finish tour? It was very impressive back when they were in the old facility.

 

[donjohnston]

I went to the Continental course about 10 years ago. Lots of good information. At least for me with no formal aircraft engine training. The class was about 30% E/AB builders and the rest were aircraft mechanics. Well worth it for me.