Ivy Tech Community College offers several FAA-certified aviation maintenance programs designed to prepare students for high-demand technical careers. These programs are part of the School of Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering & Applied Science and are offered at the Fort Wayne campus. Ivy Tech maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1 to enhance personalized instruction.
Quick Facts
- Length: 4 Months to 24 Months
- Cost: $2,000 to $12,000
- Location: Fort Wayne, IN
- Website: https://www.ivytech.edu/programs/all-academic-programs/school-of-advanced-manufacturing-engineering-applied-science/aviation-maintenance-technology/
Aviation Maintenance Programs Overview
Programs range from one-semester certificates to full associate degrees and include both general and specialized technical training.
| Program | Duration | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Airframe Concentration | 24 months | $11,416 |
| AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Powerplant Concentration | 24 months | $11,416 |
| AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Accelerated (Licensed Mechanics) | 4–8 months | $2,854 |
| Certificate in Aviation Maintenance – General Concentration | 4–5 months | $3,389 |
AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Airframe Concentration
This program covers FAA general and airframe content including hydraulics, aircraft sheet metal, avionics, cabin systems, and carbon fiber composites.
Curriculum
Aviation coursework includes:
- AVIT 141 – Aviation Basics I
- Covers blueprint reading, aircraft drawing interpretation, and weight-and-balance procedures. Students learn to fabricate and install rigid and flexible fluid lines used in hydraulic, oxygen, and fuel systems. Emphasis is placed on technical documentation, schematic usage, and aircraft weighing.
- AVIT 142 – Aviation Basics II
- Reviews essential math and physics concepts applied to aviation. Topics include geometry for calculating areas and volumes, ratios related to engine performance, and aerodynamics fundamentals. Students explore basic aircraft structures and simple mechanical systems.
- AVIT 144 – Aircraft Electricity
- Introduces DC and AC electrical theory, circuit calculations, and power relationships. Students measure voltage, resistance, and continuity, read circuit diagrams, and troubleshoot electrical issues. The course includes battery servicing and basic inspection techniques.
- AVIT 145 – Aircraft Ground Servicing
- Focuses on ground handling safety, aircraft fueling, and corrosion control. Students learn ramp safety procedures, engine run-up techniques, and use of standard marshalling signals. Emphasis is placed on cleaning methods and identification of hazardous materials.
- AVIT 146 – Aviation Regulations
- Covers FAR Parts 23, 43, and 65 along with advisory circulars and aircraft maintenance documentation. Students practice completing logbook entries, inspection forms, and interpreting regulatory materials. Includes privileges and limitations of FAA-certified mechanics.
- AVIT 148 – Aviation Materials and Processes
- Introduces nondestructive testing, aircraft hardware selection, and heat-treating methods. Students perform dye penetrant, eddy current, ultrasonic, and magnetic particle inspections. Includes weld quality inspection and use of precision measurement tools.
- AVIT 222 – Non Metallic Structures
- Teaches repair and inspection of fiberglass, composites, laminated structures, and acrylic materials. Students learn to work with bonded and honeycomb materials and install specialized fasteners. Also covers repair of windows, doors, and interior furnishings.
- AVIT 226 – Airframe Electrical Systems
- Explores electrical wiring, connectors, power distribution, and speed control systems in airframes. Students troubleshoot AC/DC systems and inspect integrated generators. The course includes conformity inspections for airworthiness.
- AVIT 227 – Aircraft Sheetmetal
- Develops student skills in structural airframe repairs using sheet metal tools and techniques. Includes layout, forming, riveting, and blueprint reading. Emphasizes practical fabrication and installation of sheet metal parts.
- AVIT 228 – Aircraft Instruments and Avionics
- Covers operation and servicing of flight instruments and avionics systems, including communication and navigation components. Students troubleshoot autopilot systems, static pressure instruments, and radar transponders. The course also includes speed warning and anti-skid system checks.
- AVIT 241 – Aircraft Fuel System and Welding Practices
- Introduces welding methods for multiple metals and fabrication of tubular structures. Students inspect and service aircraft fuel dump, transfer, and quantity systems. Focuses on troubleshooting and fluid pressure system repairs.
- AVIT 245 – Aircraft System
- Covers cabin atmosphere systems including cooling, heating, oxygen supply, and static pressure checks. Students inspect and service warning systems, electric brakes, and anti-skid components. Emphasizes pressurization system maintenance.
- AVIT 246 – Aircraft Hydraulic and Landing Gear Systems
- Teaches hydraulic and pneumatic systems related to landing gear, de-icing, and environmental controls. Students practice safe jacking, servicing brakes, wheels, struts, and steering systems. Includes troubleshooting of gear position and warning systems.
Cost & Duration
This program includes 64 credit hours and takes four semesters (approximately 24 months) to complete. Tuition is estimated at $11,416. Students also earn a general certificate as part of the pathway.
AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Powerplant Concentration
The Associate of Applied Science Powerplant Concentration prepares students in powerplant systems, turbine and reciprocating engine repair, and fuel/ignition systems.
Curriculum
- AVIT 231 – Reciprocating Powerplants
- Covers the overhaul, inspection, and removal of reciprocating engines including radial types. Students inspect and repair engine installations, perform conformity inspections, and return engines to service condition. Emphasis is on operational readiness and airworthiness compliance.
- AVIT 232 – Turbine Powerplants
- Focuses on turbine engine overhaul, servicing, and installation procedures. Students inspect and repair engine components, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compliance with safety and operational standards. Course includes full operational overhauls and system checks.
- AVIT 233 – Powerplant Fuel and Induction Systems
- Studies carburetors, superchargers, and fuel metering systems in turbine and reciprocating engines. Students overhaul carburetors, inspect fuel system components, and troubleshoot induction and cooling systems. Emphasis is on airflow control and auxiliary system maintenance.
- AVIT 235 – Powerplant Fluid and Indicating Systems
- Explores lubrication systems and engine instrument operations. Students inspect and service fire detection, temperature, pressure, and flow indication components. Focus includes repair of engine wiring, switches, and lubrication mechanisms.
- AVIT 237 – Propellers
- Covers installation, removal, balancing, and repair of fixed-pitch and constant-speed propeller systems. Students service synchronization systems and ice control units. Also includes inspection and repair of aluminum alloy blades and propeller controls.
- AVIT 251 – Commercial Ground
- Prepares students for the FAA Commercial Pilot written exam. Topics include advanced flight planning, complex system documentation, and aircraft weight and balance analysis. Students review flight principles and navigate key commercial operations.
- AVIT 253 – Engine Starting System
- Introduces turbine and reciprocating engine starting and ignition systems. Students inspect and overhaul magnetos, pneumatic starters, and ignition harnesses. Course covers electrical and mechanical troubleshooting for start-up reliability.
Cost & Duration
This 64-credit-hour program spans four semesters (24 months). Tuition is also $11,416. Graduates pursue roles as powerplant mechanics in airfields and repair stations.
Accelerated Option for Licensed Mechanics
AAS in Aviation Maintenance – Accelerated for FAA-Licensed Mechanics
This program is a fast-track 16-credit-hour option for already licensed FAA A&P mechanics.
It can be completed in one to two semesters (4–8 months) and costs approximately $2,854. Students complete general education coursework to earn an associate degree.
Short-Term Certificate Program
Certificate in Aviation Maintenance – General Concentration
This foundational program covers aircraft maintenance regulations, mathematics, physics, inspection methods, corrosion control, electricity, and troubleshooting techniques.
The short-term certificate program includes 18.5 credit hours and can be completed in one semester (approximately 4–5 months). The tuition is estimated at $3,389.
Accreditation and Delivery Format
All aviation maintenance programs at Ivy Tech are certified under FAA Part 147. Instruction is conducted in person and follows a structured, federally regulated format.
The programs are cohort-based with fall start dates and first-come, first-served admission.
Special Features
Students have access to real-world training environments and high-quality lab equipment. Ivy Tech’s focus on hands-on training is supported by experienced instructors and direct industry links. Graduates may find work at small fixed-based operators, major airports, or repair facilities.
Additional Programs
In addition to maintenance programs, Ivy Tech offers aviation-related associate degrees in Professional Flight and Aviation Management through a partnership with LIFT Academy. The flight training component includes up to 260 flight hours and offers a direct pathway to regional airline employment.