Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT)

Program Overview

The Aviation Maintenance Technology program at the College of Alameda is a two-year intensive evening program that trains students to become aircraft maintenance technicians. The program covers aircraft systems, structures, materials, and maintenance and repair of airframes, powerplants, electrical systems, and avionics. Graduates are eligible for FAA licensing exams and may find employment in aviation-related fields or continue their studies in Aviation Maintenance Technology.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program at the College of Alameda is a two-year intensive evening program designed to train students to become aircraft maintenance technicians. The program can be completed full-time in two years or part-time at the student's pace. The program's objectives are to:

• Provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect and maintain aircraft to ensure that they fly safely
• Teach students the theory and practical experience of constructing aircraft
• Develop students' hands-on experience and skills in repairing aircraft.
The AMT program is open to students with a high school diploma or equivalent. No prior experience in aviation maintenance is required.

Outline:

The AMT program coursework includes the following modules:

• Aircraft Maintenance Fundamentals:
This module introduces students to the basic concepts of aircraft maintenance, including aircraft systems, structures, and materials.
• Airframe Maintenance:
This module covers the maintenance and repair of aircraft airframes, including structural components, control surfaces, and landing gear.
• Powerplant Maintenance:
This module covers the maintenance and repair of aircraft engines, including reciprocating engines, turboprop engines, and jet engines.
• Electrical Systems:
This module covers the maintenance and repair of aircraft electrical systems, including wiring, lighting, and avionics.
• Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems:
This module covers the maintenance and repair of aircraft hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including hydraulic pumps, valves, and actuators.
• Avionics:
This module covers the maintenance and repair of aircraft avionics systems, including navigation, communication, and flight control systems.
• Composite Materials:
This module covers the maintenance and repair of aircraft composite materials, including carbon fiber and fiberglass.
• Non-Destructive Testing:
This module covers the use of non-destructive testing methods to inspect aircraft for damage, including ultrasonic testing, radiography, and eddy current testing.
• Aviation Safety:
This module covers the principles of aviation safety, including accident investigation and prevention.

Assessment:

Students in the AMT program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Exams:
Students take written exams at the end of each module to assess their knowledge of the material.
• Projects:
Students complete projects throughout the program to demonstrate their skills in aircraft maintenance.
• Lab Work:
Students complete lab work throughout the program to gain hands-on experience in aircraft maintenance.
• Final Exam:
Students take a final exam at the end of the program to assess their overall knowledge and skills.

Teaching:

The AMT program is taught by experienced faculty who are experts in aircraft maintenance. The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on activities. The program also provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, including an aircraft hangar and a machine shop.

Careers:

Graduates of the AMT program are eligible to sit for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) licensing exams. Passing the coursework and the appropriate exams will qualify graduates for an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic License. Graduates of the AMT program may find employment in a variety of aviation-related fields, including:

• Aviation Mechanic or Technician
• Aircraft Engineer
• Aerospace Technician
• Aircraft Parts and Services Sales
• Aircraft Development
• Other Industries Requiring Maintenance Skills
(e.g., cars, trucks, elevators, light rails) Graduates of the AMT program may also continue their studies in Aviation Maintenance Technology and transfer to a four-year college or university. All credits earned in the AMT program at the College of Alameda are transferable to any state university and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.