Aviation Maintenance Technology

Do airplanes fascinate you? Do you have a natural aptitude for technology and mechanics? Would you feel good knowing that your work ensures the safe travel of hundreds of airline passengers every day? If so, look to OCC Career Advantage programs in Aviation Maintenance Technology to prepare you for high-paying, in-demand jobs as aircraft maintenance technician or avionics specialist. Earn a certificate or associate degree in Airframe, Powerplant, Avionics and/or Helicopter Theory and Maintenance. These programs prepare you for entry-level or higher positions in commercial airlines and private or corporate aviation. Certified aircraft mechanics and service technicians earn a median annual income of $64,979. The OCC Aviation Maintenance Technology program has helped launch careers in aviation maintenance for over 30 years, and our graduates have thriving careers in major and corporate airline companies across the state. Read on to learn how OCC can help propel you forward in this exciting career field.

A sampling of courses for these careers

General Maintenance Records
Airframe & Powerplant Instrument
General Blueprint Reading and Drafting

Airframe Hydraulics & Landing Gear
Helicopter Maintenance
Powerplant Gas Turbine Engines

see course catalog

Aviation maintenance worker in blue jumpsuit works on engine of plane

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Did you know?

Projected employment for aviation maintenance technicians in California is expected to increase by 11 percent through 2024, faster than average, according to O*Net Online.

Program Details

Complete one of our certificate programs, and you’ll be well-prepared to enter a career in aviation maintenance.

Build upon your skills if you’re already employed in the field. Or earn an associate degree for even greater advancement opportunities.

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In less than 2 years
you can earn:
Certificate of Achievement

Airframe

Train to become an airframe technician at a local aircraft manufacturing or repair facility. Learn to service an airplane, related part, and appliance after performing, supervising or inspecting its maintenance or alterations. View program detail in course catalog.

Powerplant

Train for an entry-level position as an airframe and powerplant mechanic at a local power plant, propeller overhaul facility or repair station. Learn to perform airframe inspection, powerplant inspection, maintenance and return-to-flight status on all types of U.S. aircraft. View program detail in course catalog.

Airframe and Powerplant

Train for an entry-level position as an airframe and powerplant mechanic in the aviation industry, and earn the foundational skills and knowledge needed for an engineering degree at a four-year institution. Learn to perform airframe inspection, powerplant inspection, maintenance and return-to-flight status on all types of U.S. aircraft. View program detail in course catalog.

Build on your certificate
of achievement with a:
Certificate of Specialization

Avionics

Prepare for an entry-level position as an installation, maintenance and repair technician for electronic equipment fitted to private, corporate and commercial aircraft. Prepare for a career where you get to help keep today’s aircraft in flight, as their navigational and communications systems become more and more sophisticated. View program detail in course catalog.

Helicopter Theory and Maintenance

Prepare for an entry-level position as a maintenance and repair technician for helicopters. Learn about rotary wing development, technology, construction and a general survey of the helicopter industry. View program detail in course catalog.

Or earn your
associate degree
in under 4 years

Airframe

Complete the Airframe Certificate of Achievement and the Associate in Science graduation requirements to earn an associate degree. You will be prepared for a position as an airframe technician at a local aircraft manufacturing or repair facility. View program detail in course catalog.

Powerplant

Complete the Powerplant Certificate of Achievement and the Associate in Science graduation requirements to earn an associate degree. You will be prepared for an entry-level position as an airframe and powerplant mechanic at a local power plant, propeller overhaul facility or repair station. View program detail in course catalog.

Airframe and Powerplant

Complete the Airframe and Powerplant Certificate of Achievement and the Associate in Science graduation requirements to earn an associate degree. You will be prepared for an entry-level position as an airframe and powerplant mechanic in the aviation industry, and earn the foundational skills and knowledge needed for an engineering degree at a four-year institution. View program detail in course catalog.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I enroll and register for classes?

To enroll in a Career Advantage program, you must first apply for admission to Orange Coast College. To apply, go to the Admissions Application Information webpage and review the information and requirements for admission. A link at the bottom of that page will take you to the CCCApply website, where you will be prompted to create an account so you can begin the application process.

How much does it cost?

Classes cost $46 per unit for residents of California. Classes vary in their unit value, but an average 3-unit class costs $138. There are additional fees required to register and additional costs associated with each program. Click here to view the estimated total costs of the program in this career cluster.

How long does it take?

View this chart for the length of the core program.

Are classes offered online, evenings and weekends?

This program offers online, evening and weekend courses. For details about offerings in this program, speak to a counselor or consult the class schedule. The class schedule tool searches through all Orange Coast College course offerings and includes a filter for online classes.

How can I talk with a counselor?

You can make an appointment in person, online or by phone. Click here for more information about Counseling Services and how to make an appointment.

I have more questions. Where can I get more information?

For general questions about enrollment, availability of classes and other services for prospective and current OCC students, call The Answer Center at 714-432-5772. For answers to specific questions you can speak to a counselor or to the faculty member listed on this program page.

Group of maintenance workers work on helicopter

Group of maintenance workers inspect wing of plane

Two male maintenance workers inspect front rotor engine of plane

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Did you know?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people who have a certificate as
their highest level of education earned, on average, 20 percent more than
those whose highest education level is a high school diploma.