SGTC is one of the oldest aviation maintenance schools in North America and the oldest in Georgia, offering aviation education since 1948. It has been ranked as the top two-year community college in Georgia for several consecutive years. SGTC offers multiple aviation pathways, including Aviation Maintenance Technology, Avionics Technology, and Aircraft Structural Technology.
Quick Facts
- Length: 12 Months to 24 Months
- Cost: $1,200 to $9,700
- Location: Americus, GA
- Website: https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/aviation-maintenance-technician/
Aviation Maintenance Technology Diploma
This diploma program spans 90 credit hours and offers a full overview of both airframe and powerplant systems, plus general education courses in math, English, and computer literacy.
Graduates are eligible for FAA A&P certification. The program takes approximately 24 months to complete and costs an estimated $9,630.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/aviation-maintenance-technology/
Curriculum
Courses offered include:
- AVMT 1000 Aviation Mathematics
This course teaches students how to apply mathematical principles to aviation maintenance tasks. Topics include algebraic operations, powers and roots, geometric area and volume calculations, and solving problems involving ratios, proportions, and percentages. - AVMT 1010 Aircraft Maintenance Regs
Students learn to use FAA and manufacturer publications and interpret federal regulations related to aviation maintenance. The course covers maintenance records, documentation procedures, and the legal responsibilities and limitations of certified mechanics. - AVMT 1020 Aircraft Applied Sciences I
This course introduces aircraft materials, ground operations, and corrosion control. Students gain foundational knowledge in servicing aircraft and preventing structural degradation. - AVMT 1025 Aircraft Applied Sciences II
Students learn to interpret aircraft drawings, calculate weight and balance, and work with fluid lines and fittings. Emphasis is placed on practical application in aviation maintenance tasks. - AVMT 1030 Aircraft Electricity & Electronics
This course covers the fundamentals of aircraft electrical systems, including voltage, current, resistance, and circuit diagrams. Students gain skills in measuring electrical properties, maintaining batteries, and working with AC/DC systems and electronic components. - AVMT 1210 Aviation Physics
Students explore basic physics concepts applied to aviation, such as aerodynamics, temperature, pressure, and simple machines. The course explains how these principles affect aircraft performance and design. - AVMT 2010 Aircraft Airframe Structures
This course introduces wood, fabric, and finishing materials used in airframe construction. Students learn inspection and repair methods for various structural components. - AVMT 2020 Airframe Sheet Metal
Students study riveted and tube structures made of metal and composite materials. The course includes forming, bending, inspecting, and repairing sheet metal and bonded structures. - AVMT 2025 Airframe Non-Metallic Structures
This course focuses on non-metallic airframe components, including plastics, composites, and bonded materials. Students learn inspection and repair procedures for interior furnishings and laminated structures. - AVMT 2030 Airframe Welding
Students are introduced to welding techniques used in airframe repair. Topics include gas and arc welding, soldering, brazing, and fabricating tubular structures using aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, and magnesium. - AVMT 2040 Airframe Assembly and Rigging
This course covers assembling aircraft components and adjusting control systems. Students learn to rig fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, balance control surfaces, and perform structural alignments. - AVMT 2050 Airframe Inspection
Students learn to conduct conformity and airworthiness inspections of airframes. The course emphasizes evaluating compliance with specifications and identifying maintenance issues. - AVMT 2060 Aircraft Hydraulic & Pneumatic Systems
This course examines hydraulic and pneumatic systems used in aircraft. Students identify and service components, troubleshoot issues, and inspect power, warning, and positioning systems. - AVMT 2070 Aircraft Landing Gear Systems
Students gain skills in maintaining landing gear, including retraction systems, brakes, tires, struts, and steering mechanisms. The course focuses on inspection, servicing, and repairs. - AVMT 2080 Aircraft Environ Ctrl Systems
This course covers systems controlling cabin atmosphere, de-icing, and fire protection. Students learn inspection, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for environmental control components. - AVMT 2085 Aircraft Fuel & Instrument Systems
Students study fuel distribution and aircraft instrumentation systems. The course includes inspection, service, and troubleshooting of gauges, sensors, and fuel system components. - AVMT 2090 Aircraft Electrical Systems
This course covers installation and maintenance of airframe electrical wiring, switches, and protective devices. Students also inspect and repair both AC and DC electrical systems and generator units. - AVMT 2095 Aircraft Comm & Nav Sys
Students learn to inspect and troubleshoot aircraft communication and navigation systems. Topics include autopilot, VHF, ILS, transponders, antennas, and related electronic equipment. - AVMT 2210 Reciprocating Engine Powerplants I
This course introduces reciprocating engine theory and maintenance, including air and water-cooled engines. Students inspect and service radial engines and learn about internal combustion principles. - AVMT 2220 Reciprocating Engine Powerplants II
Students continue learning reciprocating engine maintenance with a focus on overhaul procedures. The course includes engine installation, troubleshooting, and removal practices. - AVMT 2230 Gas Turbine Powerplants I
This course introduces gas turbine engines, covering jet propulsion fundamentals and unducted fan systems. Students inspect and troubleshoot engine components and configurations. - AVMT 2240 Gas Turbine Powerplants II
Students gain practical experience overhauling turbine engines and managing their installation, inspection, and removal. The course also covers repair procedures and service protocols. - AVMT 2260 Aircraft Eng Fuel & Metering Syst
This course focuses on fuel system components and metering systems for both reciprocating and turbine engines. Students overhaul carburetors and troubleshoot fuel controls, including electronic systems. - AVMT 2270 Powerplant Fire Prot & Elect Sys
Students learn to inspect and repair engine fire detection systems and temperature, pressure, and rpm instruments. The course includes electrical wiring and protective device servicing. - AVMT 2275 Powerplant Ignt & Starting Sys
This course examines ignition and starting systems for aircraft engines. Students overhaul magnetos, troubleshoot ignition components, and inspect turbine starting systems. - AVMT 2280 Aircraft Powerplant Acces Syst
Students learn to inspect and maintain engine accessory systems, including lubrication, induction, cooling, and exhaust systems. The course emphasizes routine service and troubleshooting. - AVMT 2285 Aircraft Propeller Systems
This course covers propeller theory, inspection, and maintenance. Students install, troubleshoot, and remove propellers while learning about balance and functionality.
Aviation Maintenance Technician Certificate
The Aviation Maintenance Technician certificate prepares students to meet FAA requirements for both Airframe and Powerplant certification.
The curriculum includes 79 credit hours covering mathematics, aircraft systems, powerplants, hydraulics, electrical components, inspection, and turbine engine theory.
Estimated time to complete the program is about 21 months, assuming full-time enrollment across five to six terms. Estimated tuition is approximately $8,453.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/aviation-maintenance-technician-%c2%80%c2%94powerplant/
Aviation Maintenance Technician – Airframe Only
This 49-credit certificate focuses specifically on aircraft airframe systems, covering structural components, electrical systems, avionics, inspection, and environmental controls.
It meets FAA requirements for the Airframe Mechanic certificate. Students can complete the program in about 13 to 16 months. The estimated cost is around $5,243.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/aviation-maintenance-technician-airframe/
Aviation Maintenance Technician – Powerplant Only
The Powerplant certificate program includes 50 credit hours of coursework in aircraft engine systems, turbine and reciprocating engines, fuel metering, and electrical powerplants.
This program aligns with FAA requirements for the Powerplant Mechanic certificate. It can typically be completed in 14 to 16 months, with an estimated cost of $5,350.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/aviation-maintenance-technician-%c2%80%c2%94powerplant/
Avionics
Avionics Bench Technician Ceritifcate
This 33-credit certificate prepares students for avionics repair roles and covers electronics, communication, navigation, and autopilot systems. Graduates are eligible to take the FCC General Radio Operating License exam.
The program takes around 8 to 10 months to complete. Estimated cost is $3,531.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/avionics-bench-technician/
Avionics Maintenance Technology Diploma
This 93-credit diploma combines airframe maintenance with advanced avionics training. Students learn aircraft electronics, communication systems, navigation, and flight controls.
The program qualifies graduates for the FAA Airframe certification and the FCC GROL exam. Estimated time to completion is about 24 months. Estimated tuition is $9,951.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/avionics-maintenance-tech/
Aircraft Assembly & Structure
Aircraft Assembly Technician Certificate
This certificate offers foundational training in aircraft blueprint reading and structural fundamentals, with an elective in aerodynamics or advanced blueprints. With just 12 credit hours, the program can be completed in 4 to 6 months and costs approximately $1,284.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/aircraft-structural-technology/aircraft-assembly-technician/
Aircraft Structural Technology Diploma
This 53-credit diploma trains students in aircraft structural fabrication and maintenance. Coursework includes blueprint reading, corrosion control, composites, quality management, and aerospace materials. The program typically takes 12 to 16 months to complete, and the estimated cost is $5,671.
https://www.southgatech.edu/programs/aircraft-structural-technology/
Tuition & Length Summary
Here is a look at the cost and length of each program side by side ($107 per credit hr).
| Program | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Aviation Maintenance Technology (Diploma) | 24 months | $9,630 |
| Aviation Maintenance Technician Certificate | 21 months | $8,453 |
| Aviation Maintenance Technician – Airframe Certificate | 13–16 months | $5,243 |
| Aviation Maintenance Technician – Powerplant Certificate | 14–16 months | $5,350 |
| Avionics Maintenance Technology Diploma | 24 months | $9,951 |
| Avionics Bench Technician Certificate | 8–10 months | $3,531 |
| Aircraft Structural Technology Diploma | 12–16 months | $5,671 |
| Aircraft Assembly Technician Certificate | 4–6 months | $1,284 |
Tuition details available here: https://www.southgatech.edu/academics/tuition-fees/
Thanks to the HOPE Grant, HOPE Career Grant, and federal PELL Grant, qualified Georgia residents can attend virtually tuition-free. SGTC does not participate in federal student loan programs, allowing most students to graduate debt-free.
Experienced Faculty
All SGTC Aviation Maintenance instructors are alumni of the program, bringing real-world expertise to the classroom.
Student Resources
Classes are held in the 42,000-square-foot Griffin Bell Aerospace Center.
SGTC offers on-campus housing and strong student support services, including career counseling and mock interviews. The low student-to-instructor ratio helps create a close-knit learning environment.
Hands-On Training and Job Placement
Students in the SGTC program gain practical experience diagnosing and repairing aircraft powerplants—both reciprocating and turbine—as well as metal and wood airframe components. SGTC boasts a 100% job placement rate, with alumni working across the aviation industry.
Some students, like Andrew Diaz, secure employment before graduation, applying their hands-on training in real-world settings such as helicopter maintenance and restoration. Diaz’s education, supplemented by career services and WIOA financial support, helped him land a part-time job with R&D Aeronautical.
Industry Connections and Career Outcomes
SGTC alumni have moved on to successful careers at companies like Delta, Gulfstream Aerospace, Blue Origin, and Lockheed Martin. Kip and Kolby McClelland, twin brothers who graduated in 2020, founded Twin Aviation Repair and were featured in “Flying Magazine” for their expert repair work. Ryan Carter, another SGTC graduate, now owns South Georgia Aero LLC and previously represented SGTC in national competitions and honor societies.
With more than 75 years of aviation training, SGTC continues to support student success through hands-on education, industry partnerships, and a commitment to workforce readiness.