AT COMMUTEAIR, WE HAVE GREAT PEOPLE WITH GREAT STORIES TO SHARE.
Built From Within – Apprentice to AMT
Dustin Allen has made history at CommuteAir as the very first “homegrown” graduate of our Maintenance Apprenticeship Program. Now, he’s officially a fully certified Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) with his FAA A&P license in hand.
His journey from building furniture displays to working on aircraft is a powerful example of how far determination, hands-on learning, and the right opportunity can take you.
Originally from Goldsboro, North Carolina, Dustin was living in Denver, Colorado, working as a furniture builder for IKEA when he decided to chase a lifelong fascination with aviation.
“I had originally started working toward becoming a pilot,” Dustin shared. “Life shifted, but I knew I still wanted to be in aviation.”
That passion led him to search for apprenticeship programs, and eventually to CommuteAir.
“I came across CommuteAir while researching apprentice programs and was impressed by how long the company had been in business. It felt like the right place to start.”
Once in the program, Dustin found a learning environment that matched his strengths, training under the supervision of licensed mechanics and earning a competitive wage while gaining the real-world experience he’d need to become a certified A&P.
“The apprenticeship was everything I hoped for. I’ve always learned better hands-on than in a classroom. I got to work side-by-side with experienced mechanics who were happy to teach and support me every step of the way.”
He also credits his success to persistence, preparation, and staying curious.
“The biggest challenge early on was learning all the lingo and abbreviations. But I asked questions, studied hard, and stayed focused on my goals, even before I was eligible to take my tests.”
After just 32 months, Dustin officially earned his A&P certification, launching a career in a high-demand field with strong growth and advancement opportunities for years to come.
“There is definitely a shortage of qualified aircraft mechanics. This certification is a huge step, and now I’m building experience and continuing to learn every day. The program gave me the tools to succeed.”
His advice to others considering a similar path?
“If you’re a hands-on learner and want to become an aircraft mechanic, this program is a great way to start. Joining CommuteAir as an apprentice was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s a real pathway into the industry.”
As CommuteAir continues to grow and invest in its Maintenance Apprenticeship Program, Dustin’s story is the first of many successes built not just on talent, but also on training, support, and a drive to keep moving forward.
Interested in becoming an aircraft mechanic?
Learn more about CommuteAir’s maintenance apprenticeship program and aviation maintenance careers at: https://www.commuteair.com/careers/maintenance/.