The Influence of On-The-Job Training on the Readiness of Aircraft Maintenance for Actual Line Maintenance Operation

This study explores the impact of On-the-Job Training (OJT) on the readiness of Aircraft Maintenance Technology students at Indiana Aerospace University for actual line maintenance operations. Serving as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world application, OJT allows students to develop technical skills, professional discipline, and familiarity with industry standards. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study gathered data from 100 randomly selected BSAMT students through five-point Likert scale surveys and structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using weighted mean, percentage, and rank, while qualitative responses were thematically coded. Results show that students generally strongly disagreed with negative statements about their OJT experience, indicating that the training effectively enhanced their technical, practical, and professional competencies. However, challenges such as teamwork issues, adapting to workplace culture, and managing work pressures were commonly reported. The study concludes that OJT significantly contributes to students’ preparedness for line maintenance work and recommends improved teamwork exercises, workplace orientation, and simulation-based learning to strengthen both technical and soft skills.