Program Info
Minimum credits: 41
Length: 4 Semesters
Division: Career and Technical Education
Contact: 434.797.8423
Award: Certificate
Plan Code: 891 CIP Code: 47.0607
Program Description
The four-semester, 41-credit Powerplant Maintenance Certificate program equips students with the essential skills and knowledge they need to become Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)- certified aviation powerplant maintenance technicians. This program prepares students for careers in the aviation industry by providing comprehensive, hands-on training in aircraft engine and associated systems maintenance. The Powerplant Maintenance Certificate program curriculum covers critical areas of aviation repair and maintenance. Students will study powerplant systems, including aircraft engines, thrust reversers, engine accessories, engine systems, reciprocating engines, turbine engines, propellers, engine tune-ups, and running tests. Students will gain hands-on experience with maintenance procedures, including inspections, repairs, and troubleshooting while emphasizing FAA regulations and industry standards for safety and compliance. Students will train in state-of-the-art facilities, including fully equipped laboratories, aircraft system simulators, and Virtual Reality (VR) exercises. The certificate program prepares the graduates for careers as aviation maintenance technicians, aircraft inspectors, and service managers across various sectors.
Admission Requirements: Students seeking admission to the Powerplant Maintenance Program must first apply to the college and submit official high school transcripts showing completion of a high school diploma, a copy of GED scores, or official transcripts from colleges attended.
MTH 111 - Basic Technical Mathematics is strongly recommended before entry into the Powerplant Maintenance Certificate Program. However, any alternative MTH course, except for MTH 132 - Business Mathematics, will also satisfy the admission requirement. Accepted alternatives include, but are not limited to:
MTH 130 - Fundamentals of Reasoning
MTH 131 - Technical Mathematics MTH 154 - Quantitative Reasoning
MTH 155 - Statistical Reasoning MTH 156 - Elementary Geometry
MTH 161 - Precalculus I MTH 162 - Precalculus II
MTH 167 - Precalculus with Trigonometry
Program Outcomes: Graduates of the Powerplant Maintenance Certificate Program must demonstrate the following program specific learning outcomes:
• Technical Proficiency: Students gain expertise in powerplant systems, including reciprocating and turbine engines, propellers, and supporting systems.
• Practical Skills: Hands-on experience in engine teardown, inspection, repair, and reassembly is a crucial aspect of the program.
• Knowledge of Regulations and Procedures: Students learn about FAA regulations, procedures, and standards related to powerplant maintenance.
• Safety Practices: Emphasis is placed on developing safe work habits and understanding safety procedures when working on or around aircraft.
• Problem-Solving: Students learn to diagnose, inspect, and repair aircraft powerplants and components.
• Industry Standards: Students learn to apply FAA and manufacturers’ approved methods for maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations.
