A Movie Every Aviation Maintenance Technician Should Watch Again

In the United States, May 24 is National Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Day.

Heading into the Memorial Day weekend, the odds that you have this day or any day this weekend off are not good. 

If you're looking for inspiration, watch this 12-minute documentary: "The Mechanician: A Brief History of Charles E. Taylor" by the Mechanical Dragons.

We, at Aircraft Maintenance Technology, have shared this before.

If you haven't seen this 2020 documentary written and directed by Joshua Lang, you need to see it. If you have seen it, watch it again.

The video begins with this quote, which by itself is inspiring:
"So when you see mighty jet aircraft
as they mark their way through the air, 
remember the grease-stained man
with the wrench in his hand;
he is the man who put them there.
-- Unknown, 
"Remembering the Forgotten Mechanic"

As you watch the video, learn about the Indiana hog farmer who became the first airplane mechanic.

Listen to the only known recording of Charles Taylor, the Wright brothers' mechanic.

Add the word "mechanician" to your historical vocabulary ("He was what they called a mechanician in the day.")

Think about all the changes in aviation that Taylor witnessed, then think about the changes you have seen and are seeing today. 

Encourage someone to join you working in the aviation industry.

May 24, 1868, was Charles Taylor's birthday. That's why Congress declared May 24 National AMT Day. Remember him and honor him with your work today and every day, and know that we are honored to highlight the work you do.