CGTC Aviation Mechanic Programs

Central Georgia Technical College offers one of the most comprehensive, FAA-certified aviation maintenance training programs in the Southeast. With multiple entry points—degree, diploma, and certificate—and strong ties to industry leaders like Delta, students can tailor their education to meet career goals in a high-demand field.

Quick Facts

Associate Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology

The associate degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology at CGTC is designed for students pursuing a comprehensive education in aircraft maintenance. The program spans 96 credit hours and includes both general education and technical coursework. It takes about 2 years to complete.

This program is FAA-approved under Part 147 regulations, with instruction conducted at the Aerospace Training and Sustainment Center in Macon, Georgia.

Curriculum

Core aviation courses cover powerplant systems, airframe structures, turbine and reciprocating engines, aircraft electricity, hydraulics, and navigation systems. Graduates are eligible to take the FAA certification exams for both airframe and powerplant ratings.

Courses may include any of the following:

AVMT 1001 Aviation Mathematics provides students with the foundational math skills needed in aircraft maintenance, covering algebra, geometric calculations, and percentage problems within maintenance contexts.

AVMT 1011 Aircraft Maintenance Regulations introduces students to FAA regulations, maintenance documentation, publications, and human factors that influence aviation maintenance practices.

AVMT 1021 Aircraft Applied Sciences I explores materials, hardware, and aircraft maintenance processes such as corrosion control, finishes, and inspections to build technical competence.

AVMT 1026 Aircraft Applied Sciences II covers technical skills related to interpreting aircraft drawings, performing weight and balance calculations, and managing fluid lines and fittings.

AVMT 1031 Aircraft Electricity and Electronics teaches electrical theory and components, including circuits, batteries, and electronic devices, with emphasis on troubleshooting and application.

AVMT 1211 Aviation Physics covers essential physics concepts such as aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and mechanics as they apply to aircraft systems and engine performance.

AVMT 2021 Airframe Sheet Metal develops skills in working with metal aircraft structures through riveting, sheet metal fabrication, and basic welding techniques.

AVMT 2026 Airframe Non-Metallic Structure focuses on the use and repair of composite, plastic, and wood aircraft components, including interior fixtures and coverings.

AVMT 2041 Airframe Assembly and Rigging provides training in assembling and rigging both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, including alignment and control surface setup.

AVMT 2051 Airframe Inspection teaches students to perform conformity and airworthiness inspections on airframes using FAA standards and best practices.

AVMT 2061 Airframe Hydraulic and Pneumatic addresses the principles and maintenance of hydraulic and pneumatic systems in aircraft, with focus on troubleshooting and repairs.

AVMT 2071 Aircraft Landing Gear Systems trains students on systems involving gear retraction, braking, shock absorption, tires, and steering components for aircraft.

AVMT 2081 Aircraft Environmental Control Systems covers environmental, ice and rain control, and fire protection systems, with attention to passenger comfort and safety.

AVMT 2086 Aircraft Fuel and Instrument Systems addresses aircraft fuel management, instrumentation, and waste handling systems, providing a broad systems overview.

AVMT 2091 Aircraft Electrical Systems focuses on aircraft electrical power systems, generation, distribution, components, and advanced troubleshooting techniques.

AVMT 2096 Aircraft Communication and Navigation provides training in avionics communication and navigation equipment including VHF radios, autopilots, and antenna systems.

AVMT 2211 Reciprocating Engine Powerplants covers the operation, repair, and theory behind piston-powered engines commonly found in general aviation.

AVMT 2231 Gas Turbine Powerplants trains students on turbine engine theory, maintenance, removal, inspection, and troubleshooting of jet propulsion systems.

AVMT 2251 Aircraft Engine Inspection covers regulatory standards for inspecting aircraft engines, emphasizing conformity and airworthiness documentation and evaluation.

AVMT 2261 Aircraft Engine Fuel and Fuel Metering explores reciprocating and turbine engine fuel systems, metering techniques, and maintenance procedures.

AVMT 2271 Powerplant Instruments, Fire Protection and Electrical Systems integrates knowledge of engine monitoring systems, fire detection, and ignition electrical systems.

AVMT 2276 Powerplant Ignition and Starting Systems explains ignition theories and practices for both piston and turbine engines, including troubleshooting common issues.

AVMT 2281 Aircraft Powerplant Accessory Systems examines support systems such as lubrication, induction, exhaust, and cooling mechanisms in reciprocating and turbine engines.

AVMT 2286 Aircraft Propeller Systems provides instruction in propeller mechanics, including theory, inspection, repair, and system performance evaluation.

New students can begin occupational courses in the summer or fall semesters.

Diploma in Aviation Maintenance Technology

CGTC also offers a diploma option in Aviation Maintenance Technology, which includes 89 credit hours of general and occupational courses. I

t takes about 1 1/2 years to finish. This option is suitable for students seeking a focused, hands-on career path in less time than a full associate degree.

Curriculum

The diploma track focuses heavily on practical aviation maintenance skills.

Students complete training in sheet metal fabrication, airframe inspections, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, engine repairs, and propeller systems.

Like the degree program, diploma graduates are eligible for FAA airframe and powerplant certification.

Technical Certificates of Credit (TCCs)

CGTC provides multiple TCC options for targeted aviation maintenance training that can be completed in less than a year.

The full Aviation Maintenance Technician (AM24) certificate includes 81 credit hours covering both airframe and powerplant maintenance.

The Airframe (AMT1) and Powerplant (AM61) certificates allow students to specialize in one component of aircraft systems, requiring 54 and 48 credit hours respectively. These certificates are ideal for students aiming to quickly enter the workforce or build on previous experience. All TCCs prepare students for their respective FAA certification exams.

Delta TechOps Partnership

A standout feature of CGTC’s program is its partnership with Delta TechOps. This collaboration offers students exposure to real-world industry standards, access to airline-grade components, facility tours, and potential career pathways. As one of only 47 schools in the country selected for this partnership, CGTC gives students a competitive edge in the job market.

Accreditation and Campus Features

CGTC’s Aviation Maintenance programs are accredited under FAA Part 147 and meet the standards of the Technical College System of Georgia. Training occurs at two Macon-based facilities, both equipped with advanced labs and state-of-the-art aircraft systems. Faculty are industry-certified professionals with direct experience in aviation technology.

Tuition

Georgia residents can expect to pay approximately $107 per credit hour plus $440 in required fees per semester.

  • Associate Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology: $10,712
  • Aviation Maintenance Diploma: $9,523
  • AMT Certificate: $9,107
  • Airframe Certificate: $6,218

Tuition details available here:

Conclusion

Each program balances technical rigor, hands-on learning, and industry exposure to ensure graduates are job-ready and certified.