North Carolina Aviation Mechanic Schools

North Carolina has six major institutions providing comprehensive training pathways, students can choose from associate degrees, specialized diplomas, and accelerated certification programs designed to meet diverse career goals and schedules. Browse the school descriptions below or scroll further to check out our guide to finding the best AMT program for you.


AIM Aviation Mechanic Programs

Charlotte | $55,000 | 21 Months

AIM’s Aviation Mechanic Programs provide FAA-certified, hands-on training across multiple campuses, including Charlotte, NC. The 21-month Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program covers 78 credit hours, focusing on airframe, engine, and avionics systems to prepare graduates for FAA certification. Students gain practical experience in industry-standard labs and classrooms, guided by experienced instructors and supported by strong partnerships with major aviation employers, opening pathways to careers in commercial aviation and aircraft repair.

College of the Albemarle Aviation Mechanic Programs

Barco | $5,500 to $6,000 | 16 Months to 24 Months

The College of The Albemarle Aviation Mechanic Programs offer students comprehensive training in aircraft maintenance. The Aviation Systems Technology Associate in Applied Science degree provides in-depth study of airframe and powerplant systems over 24 months, while the Airframe Maintenance and Powerplant Maintenance Diplomas focus on specialized skillsets over 16 months. All programs are FAA Part 147 approved, ensuring rigorous, hands-on instruction that prepares graduates for FAA certification and careers in the aviation industry...read more.

Craven Community College Aviation Maintenance Programs

Havelock | $3,800 to $4,200 | 16 Months to 24 Months

Craven Community College’s Aviation Maintenance programs, offered at the Havelock campus, prepare students for careers as aircraft mechanics with hands-on, FAA-certified training. The programs range from 16 to 24 months and include options for an associate degree, diplomas, and short-term certifications. In addition to military and local industry partnerships, the college supports student pathways to advanced study and job opportunities in aviation maintenance...read more.

Forsyth Tech Aviation Maintenance Programs

Winston-Salem | $7,000 | 24 Months

Forsyth Tech’s Aviation Maintenance Programs equip students with the skills and certifications needed to work in aircraft maintenance and related aviation roles. The Aviation Systems Technology AAS program covers airframe systems, powerplant maintenance, and FAA regulations, leading to certification preparation. Additional short-term programs, including the Part 65 Accelerated Prep Program, offer focused training for professionals seeking FAA exam readiness...read more.

Guilford Tech Aviation Mechanic Programs

Jamestown | $3,200 to $6,500 | 16 Months to 24 Months

Guilford Technical Community College’s Aviation Systems Technology program equips students with the skills needed for a career in aviation maintenance. With options for an AAS degree or specialized certificates, students learn everything from aircraft structures to advanced engine systems. Graduates emerge with FAA-recognized credentials and hands-on experience, ready to meet the demands of a dynamic industry...read more.

Wayne Community College Aviation Mechanic Programs

Greensboro | $5,000 to $8,000 | 16 Months to 24 Months

Wayne Community College’s Aviation Mechanic Programs at Piedmont Triad International Airport provide students with hands-on, FAA-certified training for airframe and powerplant certifications. Programs include the AAS degree in Aviation Systems Technology, along with Airframe and Powerplant Diploma tracks, offering 50 to 89 credit hours over 16 to 24 months. Graduates enter the aviation field ready for jobs in airline maintenance, manufacturing, and more, with small class sizes and strong industry connections...read more.

How to Choose the Best Program for You in North Carolina

Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree Programs

For students seeking the most comprehensive aviation education, Associate in Applied Science programs provide the strongest foundation combining technical training with general education coursework. These programs typically span 24 months and cover 89-92 credit hours.

Schools Offering AAS Programs:

These comprehensive programs prepare students for both Airframe and Powerplant certifications while providing transferable college credits for those pursuing bachelor’s degrees.

Diploma Programs for Focused Training

Diploma programs offer specialized training in either Airframe or Powerplant systems, allowing students to focus on their preferred area of expertise. These 16-month programs typically require 49-52 credit hours.

Airframe Diploma Programs:

Powerplant Diploma Programs:

Certificate Programs for Rapid Entry

Certificate programs provide the fastest pathway to employment, designed for students with prior experience or those seeking quick career transitions.

Guilford Technical Community College offers:

  • Airframe and Powerplant Certificate: 73 credit hours over 20 months
  • Airframe Rating Option Certificate: 43 credit hours over 16 months
  • Powerplant Rating Option Certificate: 45 credit hours over 16 months

Accelerated Exam Preparation Programs

For experienced mechanics and veterans, accelerated prep programs offer focused FAA certification preparation.

Forsyth Tech provides:

  • Part 65 Accelerated Prep Program: Five-week evening courses in General, Airframe, and Powerplant
  • Cost: $135-$175 per course

Craven Community College offers:

  • FAA General/Airframe exam preparation: $500
  • FAA General/Powerplant exam preparation: $500

Short-Term Specialized Training

Craven Community College also provides:

  • Aviation Sheet Metal: 124 hours, $280
  • Advanced Aviation Sheet Metal: 124 hours, $280

Most Affordable Options

Cheapest Programs:

Average Program Costs

North Carolina Community College Programs:

  • In-State AAS Degrees: $5,500-$7,700
  • Diploma Programs: $3,800-$5,500
  • Certificate Programs: $3,200-$5,500

Out-of-State Considerations:

  • Out-of-state tuition ranges from $17,000-$26,000 for full programs
  • All NC community colleges charge $76 per credit hour for residents
  • Out-of-state rates typically range from $268-$355 per credit hour

Private Institution Alternative

Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) offers comprehensive training at multiple locations:

  • Aviation Maintenance Technology AAS: $56,710 (21 months)
  • Aviation Maintenance Technician: $47,410 (21 months)
  • Avionics Technician: $13,950 (7 months)

While significantly more expensive, AIM provides accelerated pathways and extensive industry partnerships.

Average Program Length

  • AAS Degree Programs: 24 months (6 semesters)
  • Diploma Programs: 16 months (4 semesters)
  • Certificate Programs: 16-20 months
  • Accelerated Prep: 5 weeks per subject area

Shortest Programs Available

Scheduling Flexibility

Most programs offer:

  • Day classes: Traditional Monday-Friday schedules
  • Evening options: Forsyth Tech Part 65 programs
  • Small class sizes: Typically 20-25 students ensuring personalized attention

Leading Industry Connections

Forsyth Tech partnerships include:

  • North State Aviation (hiring graduates with tuition support)
  • Jim Shaw ACE Academy for youth outreach

Craven Community College maintains strong ties with:

  • Fleet Readiness Center East at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
  • Military and local industry connections

Guilford Technical Community College partners with:

  • Delta Airlines
  • HAECO
  • Honda Jet
  • Major aerospace manufacturers

Aviation Institute of Maintenance boasts extensive partnerships:

  • Major airlines: United, Delta, American, JetBlue
  • OEMs: Boeing, Embraer, Textron
  • Engine manufacturers: GE Aviation, Pratt & Whitney, Rolls-Royce
  • MRO providers: AAR Corp, Delta Tech Ops, Lufthansa Technik

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Forsyth Tech features:

  • Newly constructed Mazie S. Woodruff Aviation Technology Lab
  • 50,000-square-foot facility with 16,000-square-foot hangar
  • Located at Smith Reynolds Airport with eight aircraft capacity

Guilford Technical Community College operates:

  • Three specialized facilities: Aviation I, Aviation II, and Ceasar Cone III
  • T.H. Davis Aviation Center with eight aircraft and helicopter
  • 60,000 square feet of advanced lab space
  • Full-motion flight simulators

FAA Certification and Accreditation

All programs maintain FAA Part 147 certification, ensuring compliance with federal aviation standards. This accreditation guarantees that graduates meet industry requirements for certification examinations.

Transfer Opportunities

Several institutions offer seamless transfer pathways:

Veteran-Friendly Programs

Most institutions offer veteran support including:

  • Credit for military aviation experience
  • GI Bill acceptance
  • Specialized veteran orientation programs
  • Military-to-civilian transition assistance

Making Your Decision

When choosing the best aviation mechanic program for your needs, consider:

  1. Career Goals: AAS degrees provide the most comprehensive foundation, while diplomas offer focused specialization
  2. Timeline: Certificate programs offer the fastest employment pathway
  3. Budget: North Carolina community colleges provide exceptional value compared to private institutions
  4. Location: Consider proximity to major airports and aerospace employers
  5. Support Services: Evaluate veteran services, financial aid, and career placement assistance

North Carolina’s aviation mechanic programs consistently produce job-ready graduates with starting wages ranging from $12-$24 per hour, with significant growth potential as experience and certifications expand. The combination of affordable tuition, industry partnerships, and comprehensive training makes North Carolina an ideal destination for launching your aviation maintenance career.