Northland College Aviation Mechanic Programs

Northland Community & Technical College’s commitment to student success is evident in its impressive outcomes, with 86% of students receiving financial aid, 75% finding employment in their career field within six months of graduation, and average tuition savings of 37% compared to four-year colleges. At the heart of Northland’s technical programs lies its world-renowned Aviation Maintenance Technology program, housed at a state-of-the-art Aerospace Center — recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as one of the nation’s outstanding vocational-technical programs. With strong industry partnerships, Northland continues to set the standard for accessible, high-quality aviation education that strengthens both individual careers and the broader community.

Quick Facts

Aviation Maintenance Programs Overview

Aviation Maintenance Technology (A.A.S.)

Northland Community & Technical College offers a 94-credit Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology designed to prepare students for FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification. Students train on over 20 aircraft including Boeing 727s, DC-9s, a Sabreliner, a Mitsubishi MU-2, a Bell 206 helicopter, and various Piper, Cessna, and Beechcraft models.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes topics such as turbine engines, aircraft fuel systems, engine electrical systems, fire protection systems, and aircraft instruments.

  • AVIA 1011 Basic Electricity – Students explore fundamental electrical principles including AC and DC current theory, electron behavior, and Ohm’s Law applications. The course emphasizes practical skills through multi-meter usage, circuit analysis, and battery maintenance procedures essential for aviation technicians.
  • AVIA 1021 Aviation Math – This foundational course develops mathematical competency specific to aviation maintenance, covering algebraic concepts, geometric principles, and numerical operations that technicians encounter in real-world aircraft scenarios.
  • AVIA 1022 Aircraft Physics – Students examine physical principles governing aviation, including energy transfer, material properties, machine mechanics, and aerodynamic theory as they apply to aircraft maintenance and operation.
  • AVIA 1023 Publication-Forms-Records – This comprehensive course teaches students to navigate critical aviation documentation including Federal Aviation Regulations, maintenance records, and manufacturer publications while addressing human factors in aviation safety.
  • AVIA 1024 Operations – Service – Students learn safe aircraft ground handling procedures including fuel identification, aircraft servicing protocols, and hazard recognition during ground operations and maintenance activities.
  • AVIA 1026 Corrosion Control – This specialized course focuses on aircraft preservation through proper cleaning techniques, corrosion identification, and treatment methods to maintain aircraft structural integrity.
  • AVIA 1027 Aircraft Drawings – Students develop technical drawing interpretation skills, learning to read blueprints, electrical schematics, and engineering diagrams essential for aircraft maintenance and modification work.
  • AVIA 1028 Weight – Balance – This course covers aircraft weight distribution calculations, center of gravity determinations, and record-keeping requirements following equipment changes or modifications.
  • AVIA 1029 Materials – Processes – Students explore non-destructive testing methods, metallurgical processes, and precision measurement techniques used in aircraft component inspection and hardware installation.
  • AVIA 1030 Fluid Lines – This course examines aircraft hydraulic and fuel line systems, covering installation procedures, inspection techniques, and maintenance of both rigid and flexible fluid transfer systems.
  • AVIA 2001 Aircraft Elec Systems – Students gain expertise in aircraft electrical systems through hands-on troubleshooting, component testing, and repair procedures for various electrical subsystems found in modern aircraft.
  • AVIA 2008 Assembly – Rigging – This course provides comprehensive training in aircraft structural assembly and flight control rigging for both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, emphasizing proper adjustment and safety procedures.
  • AVIA 2018 Aircraft Inspection – Students learn systematic inspection methodologies to evaluate aircraft airworthiness, identify maintenance requirements, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • AVIA 2023 Fabric – Finishes – This course covers aircraft covering materials including fabric and fiberglass applications, wood structure maintenance, and protective coating systems used in aircraft restoration and repair.
  • AVIA 2025 Non-Metalic Struct – Students explore composite and non-metallic aircraft components, learning inspection criteria, repair techniques, and fabrication methods for modern aircraft materials.
  • AVIA 2026 Sheet Metal – This hands-on course teaches metalworking skills including fabrication, repair, and fastening techniques, along with welding procedures and safety protocols for aircraft structural work.
  • AVIA 2029 Hydraulic – Pneumatics – Students study aircraft power systems, learning maintenance procedures for hydraulic and pneumatic components that operate landing gear, flight controls, and other aircraft systems.
  • AVIA 2030 Landing Gear – This course covers landing gear systems maintenance including wheels, brakes, steering mechanisms, and associated warning systems for both fixed and retractable configurations.
  • AVIA 2032 Cabin Atmosphere – Students examine environmental control systems including pressurization, oxygen delivery, and climate control systems that maintain safe and comfortable cabin conditions.
  • AVIA 2033 Aircraft Instruments – This course focuses on flight instrument systems, teaching students to inspect, calibrate, and repair navigation and flight monitoring equipment essential for safe aircraft operation.
  • AVIA 2034 Communication – Nav – Students learn maintenance procedures for aircraft communication and navigation systems, including radio equipment, GPS systems, and electronic navigation aids.
  • AVIA 2035 Aircraft Fuel Sys – This course examines fuel system components and maintenance procedures, ensuring proper fuel delivery, filtration, and storage system operation across various aircraft types.
  • AVIA 2036 Ice – Rain Sys – Students study aircraft weather protection systems including de-icing and anti-icing equipment, rain removal systems, and related safety mechanisms for adverse weather operations.
  • AVIA 2037 Fire Protection Sys – This safety-focused course covers fire detection, suppression, and prevention systems, teaching students to maintain critical safety equipment that protects aircraft and occupants.
  • AVIA 2102 Aircraft Turbine Eng – Students gain comprehensive knowledge of turbine engine operation, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques for modern jet and turboprop powerplants.
  • AVIA 2115 Power Plant Sys 1 – This course focuses on engine lubrication systems for both reciprocating and turbine engines, covering oil system maintenance, analysis, and component servicing procedures.
  • AVIA 2116 Power Plant Sys 2 – Students explore multiple engine systems including fire protection, induction, cooling, and exhaust systems, learning integrated maintenance approaches for complex powerplant installations.
  • AVIA 2121 Aircraft Recip Eng – This course provides in-depth training on reciprocating engine theory, maintenance practices, and repair procedures for piston-powered aircraft engines.
  • AVIA 2123 Engine Instruments – Students learn to maintain engine monitoring systems, including temperature, pressure, and performance indicators for both reciprocating and turbine engine applications.
  • AVIA 2125 Engine Electrical Sys – This course covers engine-specific electrical systems including alternators, starters, and ignition components, emphasizing troubleshooting and repair techniques.
  • AVIA 2127 Ignition – Start Sys – Students study ignition and starting systems for various engine types, learning maintenance procedures for reliable engine operation and safety systems.
  • AVIA 2128 Fuel Metering Sys – This course examines fuel control and metering systems, teaching students to maintain carburetor and fuel injection systems for optimal engine performance.
  • AVIA 2133 Aircraft Propellers – Students learn propeller theory, control systems, and maintenance procedures including balancing, repair, and ice protection systems for various propeller configurations.
  • AVIA 2134 Aircraft Engine Insp – This capstone course teaches comprehensive engine inspection procedures, regulatory compliance, documentation requirements, and certification standards for annual and 100-hour inspections.

More curriculum details available here: https://www.northlandcollege.edu/academics/course-descriptions/?query=AVIA

Cost & Duration

The program spans approximately 24 months and combines classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training. Tuition costs include $16,635.36 for AVIA credits and $2,640 for non-AVIA credits, plus fees totaling approximately $2,826.36, bringing the total estimated cost to $22,102.36.

Be sure to look at the tuition page for special aviation costs and fees.

Aviation Maintenance Technology (Diploma)

Like the A.A.S. degree, students learn on a range of aircraft and receive training in systems such as navigation, hydraulics, landing gear, and cabin atmosphere. The diploma path is more focused on technical application and does not include general education credits. The FAA-approved curriculum supports immediate workforce entry.

Cost & Duration

The diploma program includes 82 credits and covers essential airframe and powerplant maintenance skills. The duration is approximately 20 months. Estimated cost is $21,249.38.

Aviation Maintenance Technician Plus Certificate

This 18-credit certificate program builds on the A&P certification with a focus on uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and avionics.

Students study fiber composites, aerospace IT, communication systems, and UAS architecture. Enrollment requires prior or concurrent enrollment in an FAA A&P certification program. This program prepares students for careers in emerging aviation technologies.

Cost & Duration

The estimated length is one semester. Estimated cost if $8,928.92.

Training Facilities and Equipment

At the heart of Northland’s technical programs lies its world-renowned Aviation Maintenance Technology program, housed at the state-of-the-art Aerospace Center in Thief River Falls. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as one of the nation’s outstanding vocational-technical programs, Northland’s aviation campus represents one of the most modern and complete FAA-approved training facilities in the country.

The college’s impressive fleet of more than 20 aircraft provides students with unparalleled hands-on experience, including Boeing 727s, Douglas DC-9s, a Sabreliner, a twin-engine turboprop Mitsubishi MU-2, a Bell 206 turbine-powered helicopter, and various Piper, Cessna, and Beechcraft aircraft. This extensive collection ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the diverse aircraft they’ll encounter in their professional careers.

Employment Support

Graduates have found positions with major employers such as Delta, Cirrus, Compass Airlines, and Boeing. Career services include resume guidance, job search assistance, and connections with regional and national aviation companies.

Graduates often start as entry-level technicians with potential to advance in roles like avionics technician, aircraft restorer, or helicopter mechanic.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Financial aid options include federal grants, loans, and scholarships. Veterans may be eligible for education benefits through the VA. Housing in Thief River Falls is affordable, and local employment opportunities are available for part-time students.

Additional Support

Northland’s aviation programs are recognized for excellence in technical education and for producing skilled graduates ready to support the growing aviation maintenance industry.

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