Did you know over 635,000 new maintenance technicians will be hired worldwide over the course of the next 20 years? There are many possible career paths open to an aviation maintenance technician. Vaughn College Aviation Training Institute (ATI) graduates have found rewarding careers with the federal government, in the telecommunications field and with aerospace companies, just to name a few. From working on turbines found on aircraft, on trains and in nuclear power plants―whether your strengths lie in mechanical, analytical or managerial skills―a career in aviation maintenance can be the perfect fit for your future.

What is an Aviation Maintenance Technician?

Aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs)―also known as airframe and powerplant (A&P) technicians―work around the clock for your safety by ensuring every plane and train passes inspection before leaving for its destination. If you’ve ever flown on an airplane, for example, you know the drill. From waiting on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) lines, to boarding the plane, the endgame is to arrive at your destination safely. If you ever wondered who is working behind the scenes to keep the planes properly maintained, the answer might be―you! Vaughn can help launch your dream career, and in less time than you may think.

Set Your Sights on Vaughn College

The ATI at Vaughn is the perfect launching pad where you can earn your Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) A&P certificate to prepare for a high-paying career. In fact, the latest forecast from Boeing revealed the industry will need as many as 635,000 new technicians by 2037―and that’s just on the commercial aviation side.

Vaughn offers many degree programs in this exciting, high-paying field that can open many doors for students interested in aviation careers:

Aviation Maintenance Certificate Program

Looking to start your career sooner than later? This certificate program will give you the skills to install, build, diagnose and maintain multimillion-dollar equipment and systems in today’s aviation industry. Students who have a passion for hands-on learning in mechanical skills that involve airframe and powerplant maintenance operations are instructed on servicing, repair and maintenance of airframe structures and powerplants. This program can be completed in as little as 16 months, equaling four semesters, getting you out of the classroom and working on the ground sooner than you could have imagined.

Once you complete a Part 147 FAA-approved aviation maintenance technical program―such as the one offered at the ATI at Vaughn―you’ll be qualified to take the required Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) exams. To earn your A&P certificate, you must pass the written, oral and practical exams. If you hold a GED or high school diploma, you can also obtain an associate in occupational studies as part of this FAA-approved program. Students who complete their A&P certification―and who decide to pursue a more advanced degree at Vaughn―will be awarded 30 credits toward a bachelor’s or associate degree in aviation maintenance.

Aviation Maintenance Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

This two-year college degree incorporates a balanced combination of theoretical study and practical hands-on laboratory experience, along with an emphasis on computer applications and manufacturing practices. Graduates with an aviation maintenance associate in applied science degree will have the expertise to work in entry-level aviation maintenance positions. Additionally, they will be qualified to work in aircraft manufacturing or related fields within the general, corporate or airline maintenance industries. Other career opportunities include positions at any airline or flight operations department, component manufacturers or repair shops. Graduates who earn an AAS then have the option pursue a bachelor of science degree in aviation maintenance.

Aviation Maintenance―Bachelor of Science (BS)

Looking to take your skills to the next level? The aviation maintenance bachelor of science degree will prepare you with a keen ability to communicate and provide a high level of critical and analytical skills to land supervisory positions in the aviation maintenance field. Graduates will have a well-rounded understanding of theoretical study, complemented by practical hands-on laboratory experience. Additionally, graduates will become thoroughly knowledgeable in computer applications and a receive a sound background in manufacturing practices. Career opportunities related to this degree include maintenance line manager, specialized shop manager and maintenance quality auditor.

Don’t miss out on capitalizing on this exciting aviation career opportunity. You have what it takes to be a part of this growing industry―and Vaughn has what it takes to get you there!

Check out all that’s possible with Vaughn’s maintenance degree programs and certificates through the Aviation Training Institute.