FORT WORTH, Texas — According to JSfirm.com, the online aviation job board, 91% of aviation companies surveyed expect to hire employees in 2014.

The 5th Annual Hiring Trends Survey shows that this is up from 85% last year, according to Jeff Richards, JSfirm.com manager.

JSfirm surveyed 400 aviation companies for this year’s survey.

Other findings:

• Skilled maintenance technicians will be in highest demand
• April, May, and June will likely see the most hiring
• 78% are projecting growth in 2014 (up from 67% in 2013)
• 69% experienced an attrition rate of 10% or less
• The #1 employee retention tool is “Recognition and Appreciation”