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 the recent donation of a Robinson R22 Helicopter fuselage, students have the ability to receive hands-on instruction and real-life practice on the machines they will service.

 

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.  Testing for Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic licensure is conducted by FAA examiners who are on staff at UM-Helena.

 

WHERE CAN THIS TAKE ME?

 

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.

 

 

HOW CAN I EARN MY 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 licenses.  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 along with the A&P mechanic license.

 

Some of the classes needed for A&P licensure are as follows:

• General Aviation Classes:  Federal regulations including 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