You must learn your skills in a FAA certified aviation maintenance tech school. The course last around 2 years. Additionally, some of these schools offer 2 or 4 year degrees in avionics, aviation maintenance management or aviation tech. Bachelor degrees are becoming more and more important to employers, and you may be well served to get your Bachelor's degree.
Certification is required by the FAA.
Agility: Aircraft mechanics need to climb on and under airplanes, using balance and without a fear of heights.