Certification and Curriculum Information
FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certification
The FAA requirements for eligibility for an aircraft mechanic certificate include the following:
- At least 18 years old
- Able to read, speak, and understand English
- Meet the experience or educational requirement
Once these criteria are met, a series of exams are completed to confirm the level of your knowledge.
These tests are divided into 3 sections: General, Powerplant, and Airframe.
In each of these sections, there is an oral, practical, and written examination. Upon completion of the 19-month program, you will be qualified and prepared to complete exams in all three sections.
Duration (19 month program)
Cohort Style Training
i. Demanding Program
ii. Day Cohort/ Days/obligation
iii. Night Cohort – Days/Obligation
Locations
San Luis Obispo Airport Classroom
- Showcase Class location
- Aircraft used in training (Showcase Jet and King Air)
- Paint Booth
High School Program
- Paso Robles
- Arroyo Grande
Student Costs
Tuition
- $46 x 48 Units = $2,208 Tuition ($552 per semester)
- Books & Supplies = $500 Estimated*
*We are currently providing tools; student may want to purchase their own, not required
FAA Testing: $2,400 - $3,125
• FAA Written Exam: $175 x 3 = $525
• Practical Exam $800 - $1200 = 2 (Airframe & Powerplant) $1600 - $2400
More Financial Aid & Fee Information
- Cost of Attendance: Full tuition and fees, plus cost of living estimates
- Significant financial aid is available for qualified students. Detailed information can be found on the Financial Aid website.
Curriculum
The Aviation Maintenance Technology (AVMT) program provides training in everything from changing a tire to rebuilding a turbine engine to taxiing the aircraft.
Hands-On Training
Traditional education can be frustrating and even alienating for those who learn by doing. This program is different. We value hands-on learning and career training. Our instructors have worked as certified mechanics and are ready to treat the classroom like an aircraft hangar – because it is!
- Aircraft engine change, inspection, review, and testing.
- Techniques of sheet metal repair using proper tools, parts layout, forming and bending aluminum materials, and composite repair.
- Service, troubleshoot, and repair hydraulic and pneumatic systems and components.
- Welding inspection, assembly and rigging of aircraft controls, aerodynamics, aircraft fuel systems, and aircraft fire protection.
Course Sequence Starting Spring 2024
Spring 2024
- AVMT 110 – General I
- AVMT 120 – General II FAA General Written Exam
Summer 2024
- AVMT 130 – Airframe I
Fall 2024
- AVMT 140 – Airframe II
- AVMT 150 – Airframe III FAA Airframe, Written, Oral & Practical
Spring 2025
- AVMT 160 – Powerplant I
- AVMT 170 – Powerplant II
Summer 2025
- AVMT 180 – Powerplant III FAA Powerplant, Written, Oral & Practical