Airplane mechanic checking the engine of a plane

Aviation Maintenance Technology

The Transportation Center of Excellence’s Aviation Maintenance Technology Program provides high-tech, hands-on training using industry-standard equipment, modern instructional methods, and aviation-focused technologies. Designed to support the growing demand for skilled aircraft maintenance professionals, the program prepares students to inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain aircraft systems in accordance with industry expectations and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards.

Education Tracks

Programs

Aviation Maintenance Technology - Airframe, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Education track: University Transfer

If you have interest in becoming an Aviation Maintenance Technician and working on any size aircraft from single engine Cesnas to wide-body passenger planes, this program is designed to prepare students to maintain, repair, overhaul and inspect aviation airframes, aircraft systems and components. Coursework covers all areas required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in order for graduates to receive their Aviation Maintenance Technology - Airframe degree and be qualified for technician positions as Aircraft Maintanence Technicians.

The Aviation Maintenance Technology Program is being developed to align with FAA Part 147 requirements for Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools. Instruction will combine classroom learning with practical laboratory experiences to prepare students for employment in the aviation maintenance field.

Because this program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in aircraft maintenance, students should expect hands-on lab participation, adherence to safety procedures, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Depending on final program requirements, students may also be expected to obtain certain tools or supplies for class and laboratory assignments.

Students completing the certificate or associate degree pathways may pursue employment opportunities in aviation maintenance and related technical fields, including positions involving aircraft inspection, repair, servicing, and systems support.

Please note that TSI testing may be required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and applicable certificate levels, consistent with HCC enrollment requirements.

Students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate competency in general aviation maintenance principles, including aircraft materials, regulations, safety practices, tools, drawings, weight and balance, and basic electricity.
  • Demonstrate competency in inspecting, troubleshooting, servicing, and repairing airframe systems, including structures, hydraulics, landing gear, flight controls, and aircraft electrical systems.
  • Demonstrate competency in inspecting, troubleshooting, servicing, and repairing powerplant systems, including reciprocating and turbine engines, ignition, fuel metering, lubrication, cooling, induction, and exhaust systems.
  • Apply professional work habits, technical precision, regulatory awareness, and safety practices necessary for success in the aviation maintenance industry.

The program is being developed to meet applicable FAA standards and approval requirements for aviation maintenance technician education. Upon final approval and launch, the program will support student preparation toward FAA mechanic certification pathways in Airframe and Powerplant.

Have Questions?

We are here to help

Nicholas J. Caines

Program Director

Duration
2 years (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits: 60

View the Aviation Maintenance Technology - Airframe, A.A.S. degree plan to see the total credit hours required

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition.

Aviation Maintenance Technology - Powerplant, A.A.S.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Education track: University Transfer

If you have interest in becoming an Aviation Powerplant Technician and have a desire to start a career working on any size aircraft from single engine Cesnas to wide-body passenger planes, this program is designed to provide students with the technical knowledge and hands-on skills training required to maintain, repair, and overhaul aircraft engines and propellers. Coursework covers all areas required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in order for graduates to receive their Aviation Maintenance Technology - Powerplant degree and be qualified for technician positions as Aircraft Powerplant Technicians. Students learn to inspect, service and troubleshoot engine accessories, components and systems as per manufacturer specifications and Federal Aviation Regulations.

The Aviation Maintenance Technology Program is being developed to align with FAA Part 147 requirements for Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools. Instruction will combine classroom learning with practical laboratory experiences to prepare students for employment in the aviation maintenance field.

Because this program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in aircraft maintenance, students should expect hands-on lab participation, adherence to safety procedures, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Depending on final program requirements, students may also be expected to obtain certain tools or supplies for class and laboratory assignments.

Students completing the certificate or associate degree pathways may pursue employment opportunities in aviation maintenance and related technical fields, including positions involving aircraft inspection, repair, servicing, and systems support.

Please note that TSI testing may be required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and applicable certificate levels, consistent with HCC enrollment requirements.

Students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate competency in general aviation maintenance principles, including aircraft materials, regulations, safety practices, tools, drawings, weight and balance, and basic electricity.
  • Demonstrate competency in inspecting, troubleshooting, servicing, and repairing powerplant systems, including reciprocating and turbine engines, ignition, fuel metering, lubrication, cooling, induction, and exhaust systems.
  • Apply professional work habits, technical precision, regulatory awareness, and safety practices necessary for success in the aviation maintenance industry.

The program is being developed to meet applicable FAA standards and approval requirements for aviation maintenance technician education. Upon final approval and launch, the program will support student preparation toward FAA mechanic certification pathways in Airframe and Powerplant.

Have Questions?

We are here to help

Nicholas J. Caines

Program Director

Duration
2 years (full time)
Program Format
  • In-Person
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits: 60

View the Aviation Maintenance Technology - Powerplant, A.A.S. degree plan to see the total credit hours required

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition.

Aviation Maintenance Technology - General, C1

Certificate 1
Education track: Workforce Training

The Aviation Maintenance Technology - General, C1 introduces students to the fundamental knowledge and skills required in aviation maintenance. Coursework emphasizes applied sciences, mathematics, ground operations, and the proper use of tools and aircraft components. Students gain exposure to basic electrical and electronic systems, corrosion control, and federal aviation regulations. Instruction includes aircraft servicing and inspection procedures, blueprint and drawing interpretation, nondestructive testing methods, corrosion treatment, and weight and balance calculations. This certificate provides a strong foundation for further study in aviation maintenance technology and prepares students to advance into the Aviation Maintenance Technology - Airframe, A.A.S. or Aviation Maintenance Technology - Powerplant, A.A.S. programs.

Students completing the Aviation Maintenance Technology – General Certificate Level 1 may pursue entry-level employment opportunities in aviation maintenance support roles, maintenance shops, repair stations, fixed-base operators, aircraft service organizations, and other aviation-related technical environments. This certificate also provides a pathway for students who wish to continue their education toward advanced aviation maintenance credentials, including Airframe and/or Powerplant training.

Students should be aware that additional program requirements may apply, including safety training, laboratory participation, tool and PPE requirements, and successful completion of required coursework. TSI testing may be required prior to first enrollment for applicable certificate or degree pathways based on institutional and state requirements.

Certification Pathway

The program is designed to align with FAA standards and prepare students for careers as certified Aviation Maintenance Technicians.

To obtain FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification, individuals must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be able to read, write, and speak English
  • Complete an FAA-approved training program
  • Pass written, oral, and practical examinations

Students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate competency in general aviation maintenance principles, including aircraft materials, regulations, safety practices, tools, drawings, weight and balance, and basic electricity.
  • Apply professional work habits, technical precision, regulatory awareness, and safety practices necessary for success in the aviation maintenance industry.

The program is being developed to meet applicable FAA standards and approval requirements for aviation maintenance technician education. Upon final approval and launch, the program will support student preparation toward FAA mechanic certification pathways in Airframe and Powerplant.

Have Questions?

We are here to help

Nicholas J. Caines

Program Director

Duration
2 semesters
Program Format
  • In-Person
Campus Location
Total Minimum Credits: 17

View the Aviation Maintenance Technology - General, C1 to see the total credit hours required.

Cost

Enter the semester credit hours into the Tuition & Cost Calculator to estimate tuition.

Career Outlook

This overview highlights key labor market indicators for University Transfer and Workforce Training careers in this field in the Houston area, including the number of currently employed, the median annual salary for the occupation, and the job growth.

Average Salary

$88,43

50th percentile (median) salary range in the Houston area.

Currently Employed

4,027

4,027 currently employed in the Greater Houston area.

Projected Growth

4.5%

4.5% projected growth for 2026-2030.