Victor Valley College offers comprehensive Aviation Maintenance Technology training through a partnership with Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA), formerly George Air Force Base. The program prepares students for Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) licensing exams for Airframe and Power Plant Technicians through hands-on classroom and practical training.
Quick Facts
- Length: 6 Months to 24 Months
- Cost: $1,000 to $5,000
- Location: Victorville, CA
- Website: https://www.vvc.edu/welcome-aviation-maintenance-technology-program
Aviation Maintenance Training Programs Overview
The college offers four distinct aviation programs with varying completion times. All aviation classes are conducted at the SCLA facility, located approximately 13 miles northwest of the main campus.
| Program | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Aviation Maintenance Technology Associate of Science Degree | 24 months | $4,784 |
| General Aircraft Maintenance Technician Certificate of Achievement | 6 months | $874 |
| Aviation Airframe Technician Certificate of Achievement | 16 months | $1,450 |
| Aviation Powerplant Technician Certificate of Achievement | 16 months | $1,450 |
Aviation Maintenance Technology Associate of Science Degree
The comprehensive AS degree provides the most complete preparation for aviation maintenance careers and includes 60 minimum degree-applicable units with VVC General Education pattern completion.
Curriculum
This program combines both airframe and powerplant specializations, requiring all eight aviation courses (AVA 51-52, 61-63, 71-73) plus general education in health, arts, English, communication, sociology, mathematics, and history.
- AVA 51 General Aviation I
This course introduces foundational aviation maintenance concepts, covering applied math, basic electrical circuits, physics principles, fluid line fabrication, and materials and process controls. - AVA 52 General Aviation 2
This course builds hands‑on skills in routine aircraft upkeep, with a focus on maintenance procedures and ground operations. - AVA 61 Airframe 1
This course examines airframe structures, including aircraft materials, surface coverings and finishes, inspection protocols, structural assembly, rigging techniques, and welding methods. - AVA 62 Airframe 2
This course explores key aircraft support systems: electrical power distribution, positioning and warning indicators, ice and rain control mechanisms, and fire protection systems. - AVA 63 Airframe 3
This course deepens expertise in airframe safety and support systems, reinforcing knowledge of electrical circuits, positioning and warning devices, environmental controls, and fire suppression. - AVA 71 Powerplant 1
This course presents engine fundamentals, focusing on the design, operation, and inspection of reciprocating and turbine powerplants. - AVA 72 Powerplant 2
This course covers engine airflow and thrust systems, including induction and airflow management, exhaust and reverser operation, and propeller fundamentals. - AVA 73 Powerplant 3
This course addresses engine subsystem maintenance, encompassing instrument and electrical systems, ignition and starting procedures, and fuel delivery and control systems.
Cost & Duration
The degree represents the most extensive option, requiring 82 aviation units plus 22 general education units over approximately 24 months. Aviation courses cost $3,772, with total degree costs reaching approximately $4,784 including general education requirements.
General Aircraft Maintenance Technician Certificate of Achievement
This certificate serves as the prerequisite foundation for all other aviation programs and introduces students to fundamental aviation principles and maintenance practices.
Curriculum
Students complete AVA 51 (General Aviation I) and AVA 52 (General Aviation 2), each worth 9.5 units. See course descriptions above.
Cost & Duration
This foundational 19-unit certificate provides basic aviation maintenance knowledge over approximately 6 months. The program costs $874 for California residents at $46 per unit.
Aviation Airframe Technician Certificate of Achievement
This certificate prepares graduates for apprentice-level airframe technician positions, focusing specifically on aircraft structural components, systems, and maintenance procedures.
Curriculum
Students begin with the general aviation foundation (AVA 51-52) then complete three specialized airframe courses, each worth 10.5 units:
- AVA 61 (Airframe 1)
- AVA 62 (Airframe 2)
- AVA 63 (Airframe 3)
The program follows a suggested timeline of completing general aviation courses in the first year fall semester, followed by airframe specialization in spring and the following fall.
Cost & Duration
The Airframe Certificate spans 16 months with 31.5 total units, costing $1,450 for residents.
Aviation Powerplant Technician Certificate of Achievement
This specialization prepares graduates for apprentice-level powerplant technician positions, concentrating on aircraft engines, propulsion systems, and related maintenance procedures.
After completing the general aviation foundation, students take three powerplant-focused courses, each worth 10.5 units:
- AVA 71 (Powerplant 1)
- AVA 72 (Powerplant 2)
- AVA 73 (Powerplant 3)
Similar in structure to the Airframe Certificate, the Powerplant Certificate requires 16 months and 31.5 units, also costing $1,450.
Facilities and Partnerships
The aviation program operates from Southern California Logistics Airport, providing students with real-world training environments and industry connections. The Victor Valley Aviation Education Consortium (VVAEC) brings together college, city, county, and industry leaders to support the program.
Key industry partnerships include Pacific Aviation Group and ComAV, which have hired numerous graduates. The program also collaborates with companies like Towards Aviation, which provides scholarships and internship opportunities through partnerships with the Charles Huang Foundation.
Student Outcomes and Success
Since January 2011, 126 aviation students have graduated from the program, with 106 (84%) now working in the aircraft industry. Graduates typically find employment with FAA Certified Repair Stations, commercial airlines, corporate aviation companies, aerospace defense contractors, aerospace manufacturers, and military/government agencies.
The program has achieved notable recognition, with students winning gold, silver, and bronze medals at SkillsUSA regional and state competitions, marking VVC as a top performer in aviation maintenance education.
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