City Colleges of Chicago offers comprehensive aviation maintenance training programs at Olive-Harvey College, serving as the designated Center of Excellence in Transportation, Distribution & Logistics with state-of-the-art facilities and industry partnerships. These FAA-compliant programs range from a foundational 12-month certificate to a complete 24-month associate degree, preparing students for full certification as Aviation Maintenance Mechanics through hands-on training and direct pathways to employment with major aviation employers.
Quick Facts
- Length: 12 Months to 24 Months
- Cost: $6,400 to $21,500
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Website: https://catalog.ccc.edu/academic-program-requirements/aviation_maintenance_technician-general_basic_certificate/
| Program Name | Duration | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Aviation Maintenance Technician Associate in Applied Science | 2 Years | $21,500 |
| Aviation Maintenance Technician – General Basic Certificate | 8–12 Months | $6,400 |
Aviation Maintenance Programs
Aviation Maintenance Technician Associate in Applied Science
The comprehensive Aviation Maintenance Technician Associate in Applied Science degree program at Olive-Harvey College provides complete preparation for FAA certification as an Aviation Maintenance Mechanic. This program combines general education requirements with specialized aviation coursework covering airframe, powerplant, and general aircraft systems.
Curriculum
Students complete 16 credits of general education including composition, mathematics, physical science, social/behavioral science, and humanities courses, alongside 61 credits of aviation-specific training and 3 credits of work-based learning through a capstone course.
The curriculum progresses from foundational general sciences through advanced topics including sheet metal work, aircraft systems, reciprocating and turbine engines, powerplant systems, and aircraft propellers and inspections.
Courses include:
- Aviation (AVIATN) 101 – Aviation General Sciences I-Math, Science and General Physics
This course introduces core math and physics concepts used in aviation maintenance. Students study algebra, geometry, aerodynamics, and aircraft weight and balance operations. - Aviation (AVIATN) 102 – Aviation General Sciences II – Tools, Surfaces, and Corrosion Control
Students learn to interpret aircraft diagrams, use maintenance tools, and identify corrosion types. The course emphasizes proper aircraft handling and metal treatment methods. - Aviation (AVIATN) 103 – Aviation General Sciences III – Maintenance Operations and Records
This course focuses on FAA-compliant documentation, fluid line fabrication, and aircraft servicing. Students also study regulations, safety practices, and mechanic privileges. - Aviation (AVIATN) 104 – Aviation General Sciences IV – Basic Electricity
Students build foundational knowledge in voltage, current, and resistance measurement. They also practice circuit construction, schematic reading, and basic electrical system troubleshooting. - Aviation (AVIATN) 200 – Aviation Sheet Metal
- Students learn sheet metal repair and fabrication, including layout, riveting, and bending. The course includes tool use, fastener installation, weld inspection, and blueprint reading.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 204 – Airframe Assembly and Inspection
- This course covers aircraft structure assembly, rigging, and control surface balancing. Students practice inspection procedures, maintenance recordkeeping, and conformity checks.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 206 – Electrical, Navigational, and Communications Systems
- Students explore aircraft electrical systems and avionics, including installation and repair of motors, generators, and communication systems. Emphasis is on hands-on wiring and system testing.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 207 – Non-Metallic Structures
- Students learn to inspect and repair wood, fabric, fiberglass, and composite components. The course includes applying finishes and troubleshooting defects in non-metallic materials.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 208 – Aircraft Systems I
- This course focuses on hydraulic and pneumatic systems, as well as aircraft climate and oxygen systems. Students practice inspection, servicing, and component repair techniques.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 209 – Aircraft Systems II
- This course covers landing gear, wheels, brakes, struts, anti-skid systems, and icing protection. Students learn system theory, operation, inspection, and repair procedures. The curriculum includes anti-icing and de-icing systems, emphasizing maintenance practices for safe aircraft operation.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 213 – Aircraft Systems III
- Students study fuel and fire protection systems, including tanks, pumps, valves, and detection units. The course focuses on system installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Practical training prepares students to service key safety systems.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 214 – Reciprocating Engines
- This course teaches overhaul, operation, and installation of piston engines. Students perform disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and testing. Emphasis is placed on radial engines, hydraulic lock checks, and proper record-keeping.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 215 – Turbine Engines
- Students learn turbine engine maintenance through hands-on training in teardown, inspection, and repair. The curriculum covers engine types, system components, and troubleshooting techniques. Emphasis is placed on installation and FAA-compliant procedures.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 216 – Powerplant Systems I
- This course introduces ignition, cooling, and exhaust systems for both reciprocating and turbine engines. Topics include baffles, heat exchangers, turbochargers, and thrust reversers. Students practice diagnostics and maintenance procedures for these systems.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 217 – Powerplant Systems II
- Students examine fuel metering and lubrication systems for both engine types. The course includes inspection and servicing of carburetors, fuel injection, oil filters, and temperature control units. Emphasis is on system function, repair, and troubleshooting.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 218 – Aircraft Propellers and Inspections
- This course covers the inspection, service, and repair of fixed-pitch and variable-pitch propellers. Students learn to perform conformity inspections, adjust blade angles, and follow maintenance procedures. Focus is placed on safe operation and record documentation.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 219 – Aviation Maintenance Technician Capstone
- The capstone reviews general, airframe, and powerplant subjects for FAA exam preparation. Students use adaptive learning tools and instructor guidance to assess readiness. The course prepares students for both written and oral/practical FAA certification exams.
Duration & Cost
- 2 Years
- $21,500 (residents)
This 80 credit hour program spans 8 semesters (approximately 24 months).
With aviation courses charged at $316.67 per credit hour and general education courses at standard rates ($153 for in-district students), the total tuition ranges from approximately $21,500 for Chicago residents to significantly higher costs for out-of-state students.
Aviation Maintenance Technician – General Basic Certificate
City Colleges of Chicago offers a foundational Aviation Maintenance Technician – General Basic Certificate program at Olive-Harvey College designed for beginning students seeking entry into aviation maintenance careers.
It provides essential knowledge in mathematics, physics, tool usage, maintenance operations, and basic electricity for aircraft maintenance.
Curriculum
The curriculum includes four core courses: Aviation General Sciences I through IV, covering fundamental concepts required for the FAA General portion of the Aviation Maintenance Technician certification exam.
- Aviation (AVIATN) 101 – Aviation General Sciences I-Math, Science and General Physics
This course introduces core math and physics concepts used in aviation maintenance. Students study algebra, geometry, aerodynamics, and aircraft weight and balance operations. - Aviation (AVIATN) 102 – Aviation General Sciences II – Tools, Surfaces, and Corrosion Control
Students learn to interpret aircraft diagrams, use maintenance tools, and identify corrosion types. The course emphasizes proper aircraft handling and metal treatment methods. - Aviation (AVIATN) 103 – Aviation General Sciences III – Maintenance Operations and Records
This course focuses on FAA-compliant documentation, fluid line fabrication, and aircraft servicing. Students also study regulations, safety practices, and mechanic privileges. - Aviation (AVIATN) 104 – Aviation General Sciences IV – Basic Electricity
Students build foundational knowledge in voltage, current, and resistance measurement. They also practice circuit construction, schematic reading, and basic electrical system troubleshooting.
Duration & Length
- 1 Year
- $6,400
This 20 credit hour certificate program spans approximately 4 semesters (8-12 months).
At the current tuition rate of $316.67 per credit hour for aviation courses, the total program cost is approximately $6,333 for all students regardless of residency status.
Industry Partnerships and Training Opportunities
City Colleges of Chicago has established strategic partnerships with major aviation employers including AAR Corp, a global aerospace services provider, and the Chicago Department of Aviation to enhance student career prospects. These partnerships provide students with hands-on training opportunities, job shadowing experiences, mentoring programs, and direct pathways to employment upon graduation.
The college also offers specialized continuing education programs including Aviation Sheet Metal Tech Training and the Chicago Department of Aviation Career Prep course, which provide focused skill development and industry connections.
Additionally, through the Early College program, eligible Chicago high school students can earn college credits in aviation maintenance for free during their junior and senior years, creating seamless pathways from high school to career preparation.
Accreditation and Facilities
Olive-Harvey College serves as the Center of Excellence in Transportation, Distribution & Logistics for City Colleges of Chicago, operating state-of-the-art training facilities including the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics Center.
The aviation programs meet Federal Aviation Administration requirements and prepare students for full FAA certification, with curriculum designed to align with industry standards and regulatory compliance.
The college’s Aviation Futures Workforce Center, a 12,000 square foot facility located in the Calumet Business Center, accommodates up to 80 students across multiple training programs and houses 2-3 aircraft for hands-on instruction along with additional specialized equipment necessary for comprehensive aviation maintenance training.