Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) in Springfield, Illinois, offers comprehensive aviation maintenance programs through its Workforce Institute, housed at the Levi, Ray & Shoup Aviation Center at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport. These programs are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and certifications for a successful career in aviation maintenance. LLCC’s aviation programs are accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under FAR Part 147, ensuring that the curriculum meets national standards for aviation maintenance education.
Quick Facts
- Length: 10 Months to 24 Months
- Cost: $12,000 to $24,000
- Location: Springfield, IL
- Website: https://www.llcc.edu/explore/workforce-institute/aviation#program-tab-0
Program Summaries
Airframe and Powerplant Aviation Mechanics AAS
This comprehensive program combines both airframe and powerplant studies, preparing students for FAA certification. Courses include all those from the individual certificate programs, along with general education requirements such as Technical and Professional Communication, Vocational-Technical Math, and Technical Shop Physics.
Curriculum
- AVI 103 Aviation Fundamentals
This course covers aircraft drawings, weight and balance calculations, and fluid lines and fittings. Students practice using drawings and blueprints to sketch repairs and alterations, perform weight and balance checks, and fabricate and install aircraft fluid lines. The class includes both lecture and lab components to reinforce learning through hands-on activities. - AVI 106 Basic Aircraft Electrical Systems
Students study AC and DC electrical theory, power sources, transmission, and measurement within aircraft systems. They calculate electrical properties and build circuits while working with schematics and symbols. The course combines lecture discussions with laboratory exercises to solidify understanding. - AVI 107 Aircraft Cleaning and Corrosion
This course teaches students the materials and methods used to clean aircraft and identify, prevent, and treat corrosion. Practical exercises in the lab include corrosion removal and treatment techniques. It ensures students are proficient in maintaining aircraft surface integrity. - AVI 108 Materials and Processes
Students gain foundational knowledge in operating hand tools and learn about hardware heat-treating and non-destructive testing methods. The course covers magnetic particle inspection, dye penetrant inspection, and chemical etching. Students apply these techniques in lab activities focused on safety and precision. - AVI 109 Safety, Ground Operations and Servicing
This course emphasizes safety procedures in the aviation environment, including handling electricity, hazardous materials, and fire risks. Students also learn about moving, fueling, defueling, and securing aircraft. Aviation fuel identification and proper ground operation practices are key topics. - AVI 110 Forms, Records and Publications
Students are introduced to the use of technical documents and FAA regulations, including parts 1, 23, 43, 45, 65, and 91. The course covers the legal responsibilities and privileges of FAA-certified aviation maintenance technicians. Students also learn to navigate microfiche and other record-keeping tools. - AVI 111 Welding, Assembly and Rigging
This course focuses on gas, arc, and TIG welding techniques and the identification of aircraft structural components. Students learn rigging procedures and alignment checks essential for aircraft maintenance. Lab work includes hands-on welding and rigging practice. - AVI 113 Wood Structures, Aircraft Coverings and Aircraft Finishes
Students learn to inspect and repair wooden aircraft structures and coverings. The course also explores aircraft finishes, identifying defects and assessing materials’ conditions. Labs provide direct experience with these specialized aircraft components. - AVI 114 Composites, Sheet Metal, Structures and Fabrication
Students learn fabrication and repair techniques for sheet metal and composite aircraft structures. Activities include cutting, bending, and riveting sheet metal and composites. The course blends lecture content with extensive lab work to build practical skills. - AVI 115 Aircraft Electrical Systems
Students study aircraft electrical systems, including generators, alternators, and troubleshooting methods. They learn to use service manuals and test equipment for airframe electrical systems. Labs reinforce their understanding through practical applications. - AVI 116 Ice and Rain Control Systems and Fire Protection Systems
This course covers the application and operation of ice and rain control systems and explores fire detection and extinguishing systems. Toxic gas detection systems are also introduced. Students develop a solid understanding of these safety-critical aircraft systems. - AVI 117 Aircraft Instrumentation and Position Warning Systems
Students learn the theory and operation of aircraft instrumentation and position warning systems. Topics include troubleshooting procedures and proper installation. The course combines lecture-based learning with practical demonstrations. - AVI 118 Communication, Navigation and Cabin Atmosphere Control Systems
Students study communication and navigation systems, focusing on antenna installation and power requirements. The course also covers air conditioning, heating, oxygen, and pressurization systems. Labs reinforce the operation and maintenance of these aircraft systems. - AVI 119 Hydraulic, Pneumatic, Landing Gear and Fuel Systems
This course covers hydraulic and pneumatic power systems, aircraft fuel systems, and landing gear systems. Students learn theory, operation, troubleshooting, and repair methods for these systems. Lab activities provide practical experience in maintenance and servicing. - AVI 120 Airframe Inspection
Students learn the inspection procedures for airframes, including airworthiness and conformity assessments. The course follows FAA regulations and manufacturer specifications. Lectures cover required inspections and documentation. - AVI 121 Propellers
This course focuses on propeller theory, operation, and maintenance. Students study ice control, governors, balancing, and lubrication. Lab activities include servicing and repairing fixed-pitch, constant speed, and feathering propellers. - AVI 122 Engine Lubrication and Cooling Systems
Students learn about lubrication and cooling systems in turbine and reciprocating engines. The course covers various types and methods for keeping engines operational. Students apply this knowledge through lecture-based instruction and practical exercises. - AVI 123 Engine Systems
This course explores induction, exhaust, and thrust reverser systems in aircraft engines. Students study components like carburetor heat and superchargers and learn fire protection system operations. Lab work includes troubleshooting and repairs. - AVI 126 Engine Fuel and Fuel Metering Systems
Students learn to disassemble and adjust carburetors, fuel controls, and fuel pumps for turbine and reciprocating engines. Fabrication of fuel lines is also covered. Labs reinforce the hands-on maintenance of fuel systems. - AVI 127 Engine Ignition and Electrical Systems
This course covers ignition and electrical systems in reciprocating and turbine engines, including auxiliary power units. Students gain practical knowledge through lab work that includes component operation and system testing. - AVI 129 Reciprocating Engines
Students explore the design, theory, and operation of reciprocating engines. The course includes lab work focused on the identification and configuration of internal and external engine components. Practical exercises support understanding of these complex systems. - AVI 130 Turbine Engines
This course covers turbine engine development, applications, and components. Students learn about the technology that powers modern aircraft engines. Labs provide practical exposure to turbine engine operation and maintenance. - AVI 131 Powerplant Inspection and Review
Students review the entire powerplant section, preparing for FAA certification exams. The course includes inspection, testing, and final preparation for licensing. Lab work ensures familiarity with conformity and airworthiness requirements. - AVI 199 Aviation Mathematics and Physics
This course introduces essential math and physics principles relevant to aviation. Students cover algebra, geometry, and fluid dynamics, along with mechanical physics concepts like work and power. Labs provide hands-on problem-solving applications.
Duration & Tuition
- Approximately 24 months
- Estimated at $22,390.50
Aviation Airframe Technician Certificate of Achievement
This program focuses on the structural aspects of aircraft, including courses such as Aviation Fundamentals, Basic Aircraft Electrical Systems, Aircraft Cleaning and Corrosion, Materials and Processes, Safety and Ground Operations, Welding, Assembly and Rigging, and Airframe Inspection.
Duration & Tuition
- Approximately 10 months
- Estimated at $12,726 (excluding books, fees, tools etc)
Aviation Powerplant Technician Certificate of Achievement
This program emphasizes the engine components of aircraft, covering courses such as Aviation Fundamentals, Engine Systems, Engine Fuel and Fuel Metering Systems, Engine Ignition and Electrical Systems, Reciprocating Engines, Turbine Engines, and Powerplant Inspection and Review.
Duration & Tuition
- Approximately 10 months
- Estimated at $12,423 (excluding books, fees, tools etc).
Financial Aid
LLCC offers financial aid options for eligible students. Additionally, the college received a $500,000 FAA grant to support aviation mechanics training, which provides students with free tools and books valued at $4,800 and up to 75% tuition coverage for the first two terms of the program.
Facilities
The programs are conducted at the Levi, Ray & Shoup Aviation Center, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and located at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport.
Accreditation
All aviation maintenance programs at LLCC are accredited by the FAA under FAR Part 147, ensuring compliance with national standards for aviation maintenance education.