Here's how you can specialize in aviation maintenance and repair as a mechanic.

Education is definitely important but I think common sense is more important. I didn't go the college route. I joined the Army and entered the Aviation industry that way.

Consult your training manuals on type and systems as problems present themselves! You may find some little detail in the system that you missed or have forgotten!!

I took the education route(AIM) to get my A&P, then got my bachelor's in Aviation Management about 2 years later. It definitely helps to remember your end goal while going through school and get in and get out asap. Also, while you can study and memorize test questions/answers and temporarily get through school, it pays off dividends in the long run to really understand the concepts and theories behind the studies.

This is a tough part of the process if you don't test well, in the written, oral, or practical testing process. You need to be proficient in all three testing, for each Airframe, General, and Powerplant.

The aviation sector is a very strict one, and sadly, your degree alone (regardless of the type) doesn't automatically make you qualified. There are a lot of training and certification courses you are expected to take. They are also quite expensive, and I am not sure if every employer would be willing to pay that. If you are lucky to get one who would, then great, if not, network, intern, save, and equip yourself for better opportunities by getting the necessary licenses and qualifications.

The process feels long and stressful while going through it, but it's worth it in the end of you apply it correctly. The O&P is typically the elephant in the room that everyone fears at the end. Just know that, from my experience, your DME isn't there to fail you. They're actually there to help you. You don't have to be perfect, they just need to know that you understand basic concepts, can use basic tools, and understand how to find the answers to what you need to know.

One thing I found helpful is to read the procedure, and visualize the task. Be organized, clean as you go. Don't leave a mess for someone else to clean up. Make your sign offs look professional.

Definitely most important in my opinion. Once you understand what right looks like and how the process of maintaince works you can then implement it in the workspace.

I started my first aviation job at an MRO about 2 weeks after getting my license. Once you start getting hands-on experience in one job, you notice that those same skills start to trickle over into whatever else you do in aviation. It can be quite daunting at first, but after a few years you'll notice that your experience level starts to skyrocket and that's when you truly start to become an asset to employers.

I always enjoy picking the brains of the older and experienced technicians. They always have great insight and advice for most situations that can be tricky. They are irreplaceable assets.

I've done pretty well in my short aviation career(started 2019) by saying 'yes' to any additional certs, coursework, etc. that the company had to offer. It obviously enhances your education, but it really does show the employer that you're dedicated to your craft. That usually leads to more opportunities in the future not just for the companies benefit, but for your own personal career advancement. Your resume should never stop growing.