Thanks for the info, and if anyone else has more to add, feel free to. I wouldn't mind the same system over here, as it would winnow out the pikers.
Does all of this training mean you work with better trouble shooters and more competent people? That seems to be our biggest problem over here. Very few mechanics can progress beyond changing components. It has gotten so bad that there are maintenance control positions for people to give troubleshooting advise to line mechanics. Give me a break! The line mechanic should be able to do that.
I also have a link for mechanic wages, most of which are based on 160 hrs a month.
http://www.amfanow.org/AMT-Wage_Scales.htm