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Trades and Industrial Programs

Aviation Maintenance Technology

SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program prepares students with the skills and technical knowledge they need to perform maintenance on aircraft airframe (body) and powerplant (engine).

SJVC Aviation Maintenance Technology Student

REAL-WORLD SKILLS

With many classes to guide you, you’re certain to be prepared for your career.

CHOOSE YOUR PATH

Earn a Certificate of Completion in as few as 17 months.

FLEXIBLE LEARNING OPTIONS

Conveniently available at Fresno Trades Education Center.

AFFORDABLE TUITION

Affordable tuition varies by program and location.
SJVC Aviation Maintenance Technology Program Details

Program Details

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

Students in our Aviation Maintenance Technology program learn:

  • Reciprocating Engine Theory and Engine Overhaul
  • Propeller & Engine Auxiliary Systems
  • Basic Electricity & Electronics
  • Turbine Engines

Graduates of The Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program are eligible to test for an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The college does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program.

Courses* taken by our Aviation Maintenance Technology students include:

Aircraft Basic Science

This course covers the basics of blueprint reading, mechanical drawings, the fabrication of fluid lines, and the identification of different aircraft hardware and materials. It will also focus on nondestructive testing methods, how to utilize precision measuring tools, and aircraft corrosion control. Proper FAA documentation and manufacturer instructions will be used, which will include mechanic privileges and limitations. A grade of “C” or higher is required to pass this course.

Propellers and Engine Auxiliary Systems

This course will cover the inspection, repair, and maintenance practices for propellers and their control systems. Fuel metering systems for turbine and reciprocating engines will also be covered. This includes the techniques required for inspections, repairs, and overhauls of carburetors. Finally, engine fire detection and extinguishing systems will be taught as well as requirements for light-sport aircraft. A grade of “C” or higher is required to pass this course.

Aircraft Landing Gear

This course will cover the inspection, troubleshooting, and repair of landing gear retraction systems which include shock struts, wheels, brakes, and tires. Fuel management and dump systems will be discussed, as well as inspection and repair of auxiliary systems. This includes ice and rain control, smoke and carbon monoxide warning systems, and fire detection and extinguishing systems. A grade of “C” or higher is required to pass this course.

Find out more about what you will learn in an Aircraft Mechanic Training Program.

COST & FINANCIAL AID

Education is the most important investment you can make in your future. There is a financial plan available for everyone, including a broad range of financial assistance options. Visit SJVC’s Net Price Calculator to get personalized information on college costs and financial aid. Check out SJVC’s Academic Catalog to learn about program costs by campus and credential level. You also can talk to an Admissions Advisor to discuss the costs of your chosen program and schedule an appointment with an experienced financial aid officer. Student loans, grants, and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

PROGRAM AVAILABILITY

SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program is conveniently located at the Fresno-TEC location.

ACCREDITATION & APPROVALS

The Aviation Maintenance Technology program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Flight Standards District Office
1781 E. Fir Avenue, Ste. 203
Fresno, CA 93720
(559) 297-2150
www.faa.gov

Institutional Accreditation

San Joaquin Valley College is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501, Phone: 510-748-9001, Fax: 510-748-9797.

www.wscuc.org

The WSCUC is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.

State Approvals

CALIFORNIA

SJVC is a private institution and is approved to operate as an accredited institution by the California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Approval to operate means that SJVC has been found in compliance with the standards set forth in the California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 (as amended) and Title 5, Division 7.5, – Private Postsecondary Education of the California Code of Regulations. As a prospective student, you are encouraged to review this catalog prior to signing an enrollment agreement. You are also encouraged to review the School Performance Fact Sheet, which must be provided to you prior to signing an enrollment agreement.

A student or any member of the public may file a complaint about this institution with the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education by calling (888) 370-7589 or by completing a complaint form, which can be obtained on the Bureau’s internet website (www.bppe.ca.gov).

View additional State Approvals for SJVC.

SKYWEST AIRLINES AMT PATHWAY PROGRAM

AMT Pathway Program
Up to $7600* in educational assistance and reimbursements!

The SkyWest AMT Pathway Program provides a jump-start for exceptional mechanics to join SkyWest Airlines. As you complete your training to gain your A&P certificate, you’ll also enjoy SkyWest mentorship and may have the opportunity to participate in events like maintenance base visits, job shadowing, and more.

  • Enhanced company seniority for things like health insurance, profit-sharing programs, and travel
  • Up to $1600 in A&P test fee reimbursements*
  • Up to $1500 in moving expense reimbursements, plus mileage*
  • Up to $4500 in education assistance*
  • Guaranteed final interview to become an A&P mechanic at SkyWest

*Up to $4500 in education assistance, $1500 in moving expense reimbursement plus mileage and $1600 in A&P test fee reimbursement with a three-year commitment to SkyWest after completing initial probation

Learn more about the SkyWest AMT Pathway Program

What Will I Learn?

RECIPROCATING ENGINE THEORY & ENGINE OVERHAUL

PROPELLER & ENGINE AUXILIARY SYSTEMS

BASIC ELECTRICITY & ELECTRONICS

TURBINE ENGINES

Ready to Do This?

Find your path in Aviation Maintenance Technology

Talk to an Admissions Advisor about your options and earn your Certificate of Completion in as few as 17 months.

Discover What It’s Like to Become an Aviation Maintenance Technology Student

Discover What It’s Like to Become an Aviation Maintenance Technology Student

“”
It was honestly more than I thought it would be. I knew going in that I would be at a slight disadvantage because I knew nothing about mechanics, but they never made me feel that I was at a disadvantage.
Sophia L.
2018 Aviation Maintenance Technology Graduate

Career Opportunities

The day-to-day responsibilities of an Aircraft Mechanic include diagnosing both mechanical and electric problems, repairing parts of an aircraft, including wings, brakes and various systems (electrical, brake, etc), hydraulics, pneumatics, avionics, and replacing broken or defective parts.1

Aircraft Mechanics may also be called Aircraft Maintenance Technicians and Aircraft Technicians. An aircraft Maintenance Tech tests aircraft parts and reviews manuals to identify the best procedures for repair. Once maintenance is completed, they test the work and the parts to make sure they are performing correctly. Aircraft Mechanics are responsible for keeping detailed records of performed maintenance on an aircraft.1

SJVC Aviation Maintenance Technology Career Opportnunities

Check out our guide on Aviation Maintenance

If you’re the kind of person who has their eye on the sky, or if you have always wondered what makes an aircraft work, working as an Avionics Technician or Aviation Maintenance Technician may be a good fit for you. Becoming an Aviation Maintenance Technician may offer a rewarding and lucrative career.

 

SJVC Aviation Maintenance Technician Career Guide

Successful Grads

Ask one of our graduates about their SJVC experience and they’ll likely describe it as life-changing.

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Aviation Maintenance Technology FAQ

What can you do with an Aviation Maintenance Degree?
Most mechanics are considered Generalists who work on a variety of aircraft, like jets, airplanes, and helicopters. Some mechanics specialize in a single type of aircraft—such as a helicopter mechanic—or specialize in systems—such as the engine, hydraulic system, or electrical system.1
What does an Aircraft Mechanic do?
Aviation maintenance is a broad field of everything that goes into keeping aircrafts capable of flying. This can include diagnosing mechanical or electrical problems; replacing defective parts; using hand tools or power tools; inspecting completed work to ensure that it meets performance standards; repairing wings, brakes, electrical systems, and other aircraft components.1
How long is Aviation Maintenance school?
The time to complete an Aviation Maintenance program can vary based on course loads and schedules. Students in SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program can earn a Certificate of Completion in as few as 17 months.