Welcome
Just the facts
Entry: Fall Only
Length: 4 semesters, 2 summers
Award: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree
Program Guide: Aviation Maintenance Technology
Admission Requirements
Admission to the college is granted to all individuals who are high school graduates or the equivalent. We encourage you to review our Getting Started Checklist for specific requirements for admission.
Program Information
The Aviation Maintenance Technology program of study provides the necessary instruction and practical experience required by the Federal Aviation Administration regulations for those individuals who wish to become a Certificated Aviation Maintenance Technician with an Airframe and Powerplant rating. The curriculum follows the guidelines set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration in FAR Part 147 and provides students with training on both fixed-wing and rotor-winged aircraft along with training in reciprocating and turbine-powered aircraft systems. The student must take the required FAA written/oral and practical tests to receive a Mechanic's certificate with Airframe and Powerplant ratings. A student will need to complete 88.5 semester hours to graduate from this program and are awarded an Associate in Applied Science degree.
Students will learn how to perform inspections, servicing, trouble-shooting and repair of aircraft systems and components. Technicians inspect engines, landing gear, instruments, pressurized sections, accessories and other parts of the aircraft, and do necessary maintenance and replacement of parts.
New Facility
Features:
- A 13,000 sq.ft.hangar
- Modern aircraft for lab use
- Three lecture rooms complete with multi-media resource equipment
- Two 1,700 sq.ft. maintenance labs
- Reference library complete with reference materials and computers
- Fully stocked tool room
- Flight simulator equipment
Articulation/Transfer Opportunities
Iowa Western Community College has articulation agreements with various four-year schools, local and state. The Aviation Maintenance Technology Program has articulation agreements with the following schools:
- Bellevue University
- UNO Aviation Institute
- Buena Vista University
Scholarship Information
Iowa Western Community College has many scholarship opportunities available for new and continuing students. We encourage you to take a moment to explore these options by visiting our Scholarship Page - the few minutes it takes to fill out the application may literally pay off.
Outside Aviation Scholarships
- Aviation Distributors and Manufacturers Association (ADMA)
- Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA)
- General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA)
- Helicopter Association International (HAI)
- Professional Aviation Maintenance Foundation (PAMF)
- Women in Aviation International (WAI)
Career Opportunities
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook "opportunities for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians should be excellent for who have completed aircraft mechanic training programs. Employment is expected to increase about as fast as average for all occupations through the year 2014, and large numbers of additional job openings should arise from the need to replace experienced mechanics who retire."
"Job opportunities for avionics technicians who are prepared to master the intricacies of the aircraft and work with A&P mechanics are expected to be good. Technicians who are cross-trained and able to work with complex aircraft systems should have the best job prospects. Additionally, technicians with licensing that enables them to work on the airplane, either removing or reinstalling equipment, are expected to be in especially high demand."
Come see Aviation Technology for yourself!
It is important to research the program you would like to study and school you would like to attend, but it is equally important that you experience both before making your selection. We encourage you to come experience the Aviation Maintenance Technology program at Iowa Western by scheduling a visit.
Other Resources
- Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC)
- Council of Aviation Accreditation (CAA)
- Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
- University Aviation Association (UAA)
- Iowa Community Colleges
- North Central Association Higher Learning Commission (NCA)
Eldon Young
Aviation Program Chair
1-800-432-5852, ext. 3414 or 712-325-3414
eyoung@iwcc.edu