You can always tell when a man has lost his soul to flying. The poor guy is hopelessly committed to stopping whatever he is doing long enough to look up and make sure the aircraft purring overhead continues on course and does not suddenly fall out of the sky. It is also his bound duty to watch every aircraft within view take off and land.
WHAT CAN I LEARN?
The program provides students with the entry-level skills and knowledge necessary for employment in a rapidly changing, challenging, and rewarding field. Satisfactory completion of the two-year Aviation Maintenance Technology Associate of Applied Science degree at UM- Helena prepares and qualifies students for the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) tests for aircraft mechanics.
HOW CAN I EARN A DEGREE?
Upon completion of the two-year Aviation Maintenance program, students are qualified to take the tests required by the FAA to earn their A&P mechanic certificate. Students also enroll in one related general education class per semester, in addition to the classes required to become an aircraft mechanic. Successful completion of all required classes will earn a student an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in addition to the A&P mechanic certificate.
Some of the classes needed to obtain an A&P certificate and degree are as follows:
- General Aviation Classes: Federal regulations, electricity and basic physics
- Airframe Structures: Composite material construction through sheet metal and welded repairs
- Airframe Systems: Landing gear through hydraulics and heating/cooling of cabins
- Powerplant Overhaul: Piston engines and turbine engine overhaul
- Powerplant Systems: Fuel control through ignition systems for piston engines and turbine engines, including propellers
- General Education Courses: English, math, microcomputers, and Career Development and Human Relations
As a result of UM-Helena’s impressive reputation, prospective employers regularly contact UM-Helena in search of 
graduates from this program. As stated in the U.S. Bureau of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook 2004-2005, “Opportunities for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technician jobs should be excellent for persons who have completed aircraft mechanic training programs.” With a combination of education and experience, UM-Helena graduates will thrive in this growing job market.
WHY UM HELENA?
As Montana’s only Aviation Maintenance Technology program, UM-Helena provides quality training for motivated students interested in airplanes and helicopters. Our experienced instructors and airport setting provide the proper environment to help students become aviation maintenance technicians. With a variety of aircraft, powerplants and training aids, students have the ability to receive hands-on instruction and real-life practice on the machines they will service.