Aviation Maintenance Technology

The collective public has very high expectations when it comes to the safety of aircraft flying overhead and the Federal Aviation Administration has charged Helena College with providing quality meaningful instruction to prospective Aviation Maintenance Technicians to meet that challenge.

The mission of the Aviation Maintenance Technology program at Helena College University of Montana is to provide entry-level technicians who are trained in the fundamentals of aircraft maintenance with respect to general aviation and the light utility helicopter industry. With this training, a technician will be prepared for employment in many different occupations in the aviation industry including: Fixed Base Operations, Repair Stations, Commuter Airlines, Air Cargo, Aircraft Restoration, Flight Schools and Aerial Fire Fighting, to name a few.

Students are trained above and beyond the standards outlined in 14 CFR 147 (FAR Part 147) and the guidelines set forth in the program approved curriculum. Upon completion of 1900 hours of course work, students will be prepared to take three written exams and sit with a Designated Maintenance Examiner qualified by the FAA to be given three Oral and Practical Exams.

Upon completion of the required FAA tests, a student will be certificated by the FAA as a mechanic with either or both an airframe and powerplant rating. With additional general coursework through Helena College University of Montana students will also be awarded an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology.

Students need professional tools to gain employment upon graduation; therefore, they are required to purchase a tool set as outlined in the tool section. Students are required to purchase school-approved coveralls and red rags for use in the shops and are responsible for a cleaning fee each semester.

Gainful Employment

Aviation Maintenance Technology
Associate of Applied Science

Career Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians is projected to grow 6 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations.

Modest employment growth is expected as air travel gradually increases over the coming decade. However, as airlines increasingly outsource maintenance work to other countries, employment growth is expected to be limited.

Job prospects should be best for mechanics and technicians who hold an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate and a bachelor’s degree in aircraft maintenance. Job prospects also will be better for those who keep up with technical advances in aircraft electronics and composite materials.

Job opportunities may arise from the need to replace mechanics who leave the workforce. Over the next decade, many aircraft mechanics are expected to retire. As older mechanics retire and younger mechanics advance, entry-level positions may open up.

However, if airlines continue to send maintenance work to other countries, competition for new jobs will remain strong.

For the most current salary information please refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics “Occupational Outlook Handbook found at www.bls.gov/ooh/.

Program Cost:
Approximately $7,300

Associate of Applied Science

Aviation Maintenance Technology

For more information, please contact the Student Support Center