Southwest Texas College Aviation Mechanic Programs

Southwest Texas Junior College (SWTJC) offers two comprehensive aviation maintenance programs at their Del Rio Campus. The college provides both foundational training through their Aircraft General Maintenance Level 1 Certificate and advanced professional preparation via their Airframe Mechanics Level 2 Certificate program. These programs serve students seeking entry-level positions in aviation maintenance as well as those pursuing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification as licensed mechanics.

Quick Facts

Aviation Maintenance Technician Program Overview

ProgramDurationTuition (In-District)
Aircraft General Maintenance
(Level 1 Certificate)		8–10 months (2 semesters)$1,654
Airframe Mechanics
(Level 2 Certificate)		8 months (3 semesters)$3,960

Aircraft General Maintenance Level 1 Certificate

The Aircraft General Maintenance program is a Level 1 Certificate designed for students seeking foundational knowledge in aviation maintenance. This program emphasizes shop safety, servicing procedures, and general operating protocols essential for entry-level positions in aircraft maintenance fields. Key features of this program include TSI waiver status, making it accessible to students who may not be college-ready, though developmental coursework is encouraged for additional preparation.

Curriculum

The 17-credit hour program covers aviation shop practices, ground operations, aviation science, basic electricity, weight & balance, and federal aviation regulations.

Coursework includes:

  • AERM 1203 Shop Practices
    This course introduces students to shop safety, the proper use of hand tools and equipment, and precision measurement. It covers identification of aircraft hardware, fabrication of fluid lines and tubing, and procedures for testing, heat treating, and inspecting aircraft structures.
  • AERM 1315 Aviation Science
    Students study the fundamentals of mathematics, physics, and technical drawings as they relate to aircraft operations. The course provides the foundation required by the FAA for airframe and powerplant mechanics.
  • AERM 1210 Ground Operations
    This course covers aircraft fuels, servicing methods, and safety procedures. Students learn aircraft movement, securing, external power operations, cleaning, and corrosion control practices.
  • COSC 1301 Introduction to Computing
    An overview of computer systems, including hardware, operating systems, the Internet, and software applications such as word processing and spreadsheets. The course also explores the history of computing and its impact on society, business, and education.
  • AERM 1314 Base Electricity
    This course examines aircraft electrical systems, including the use of meters, circuit analysis, and the principles of magnetism, inductance, and capacitance. Students practice battery maintenance, AC to DC conversion, and interpreting aircraft electrical diagrams with attention to safety.
  • AERM 1208 Federal Aviation Regulations
    Students learn how to use and interpret FAA publications, forms, and records while understanding mechanic privileges and limitations. Emphasis is on compliance with aviation regulations and industry documentation practices.
  • AERM 1291 Special Topics in Aircraft Mechanic/Technician Airframe
    This course addresses emerging skills, knowledge, and industry topics relevant to aircraft mechanics. It may be repeated to strengthen professional development and technical proficiency.
  • AERM 1205 Weight & Balance
    This course introduces FAA-required principles of weighing aircraft and performing weight and balance calculations. Students also learn how to document maintenance records related to these procedures.

Students complete 10 credit hours in the fall semester and 7 hours in the spring semester.

Cost & Duration

The program can be completed in approximately 8-10 months spanning two semesters. Tuition costs range from approximately $1,654 for in-district students to $5,245 for out-of-state students for the complete 17-credit program based on current tuition rates.

Additional lab and consumable fees may apply as specified in course descriptions.

More curriculum information available here:

Airframe Mechanics Level 2 Certificate

The Airframe Mechanics program is a comprehensive Level 2 Certificate that prepares students for FAA mechanic examinations for General Airframe certification. This intensive program utilizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 147 curriculum to ensure students meet professional standards and qualify for entry-level employment in airframe mechanic related fields. The program requires TSI compliance, meaning students must meet college readiness requirements or complete developmental coursework.

Curriculum

The 40-credit hour program spans three semesters with advanced coursework.

  • EDUC 1300 Learning Framework
    This course examines research and theory on learning, cognition, and motivation, applying these concepts to student success strategies. Students use assessments to identify their strengths and weaknesses and develop academic skills rooted in theoretical learning models. The goal is to help students integrate these strategies across their college studies for effective and efficient learning.
  • COLS 0300 College Success Skills
    This course explores the psychology of learning and factors that support academic and personal success in college. Students practice study techniques such as time management, note-taking, test preparation, and research skills while also covering goal setting, motivation, and educational planning. The course includes orientation to college resources and emphasizes skills applicable across disciplines.
  • AERM 1203 Shop Practices
    This course introduces students to shop safety, proper use of tools and equipment, and precision measurement. Topics include aircraft hardware identification, fabrication of fluid lines, and procedures for testing, heat treating, and structural inspection.
  • AERM 1315 Aviation Science
    Students learn the fundamentals of mathematics, physics, and technical drawings as applied to aircraft principles and operations. This foundation meets FAA requirements for airframe and powerplant mechanics.
  • AERM 1210 Ground Operations
    This course covers aircraft fuels, servicing methods, movement, and safety procedures. Students also learn corrosion control, external power equipment use, and aircraft cleaning practices.
  • AERM 1314 Basic Electricity
    This course studies aircraft electrical systems, including circuit analysis, meters, and principles of magnetism, capacitance, and inductance. Students gain hands-on experience with battery servicing, AC/DC conversion, and electrical diagram interpretation with an emphasis on safety.
  • AERM 1208 Federal Aviation Regulations
    Students are introduced to FAA publications, forms, and records while learning how to apply mechanic privileges within regulatory limits. Emphasis is placed on compliance and proper documentation.
  • AERM 1205 Weight and Balance
    This course teaches FAA-required principles of weighing aircraft and performing weight and balance calculations. Students also practice completing proper maintenance record entries.
  • AERM 1345 Airframe Electrical Systems
    This course focuses on the installation, removal, and repair of airframe electrical components and wiring. Safety practices are emphasized throughout all laboratory and maintenance activities.
  • AERM 1247 Airframe Auxiliary Systems
    Students study auxiliary systems such as cabin climate control, ice and rain protection, and fire detection and suppression. The course emphasizes safe maintenance and inspection procedures.
  • AERM 1349 Hydraulic, Pneumatic, & Fuel Systems
    This course develops skills in servicing and maintaining hydraulic, pneumatic, and fuel systems. Students apply safety protocols and detailed maintenance practices.
  • AERM 1350 Landing Gear Systems
    Students learn inspection, servicing, and overhaul of fixed and retractable landing gear systems. The course includes coverage of position and warning systems, emphasizing safe operation and repair.
  • AERM 1352 Aircraft Sheet Metal
    This course trains students in sheet metal inspection and repair, including forming, layout, bending, and fastening techniques. Proper selection and installation of rivets and fasteners are also covered.
  • AERM 1243 Instruments & Navigation/Communication
    Students study aircraft instruments, navigation, and communication systems. Instruction includes testing, troubleshooting, and repairing antennas and electronic installations.
  • AERM 2233 Assembly & Rigging
    This course covers the assembly and rigging of fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft. Students practice structural alignment, control system balancing, and safe assembly of components.
  • AERM 1253 Aircraft Welding
    Students learn welding, brazing, and soldering techniques for materials such as steel, aluminum, magnesium, and brass. Emphasis is placed on correct repair procedures and safety.
  • AERM 1241 Wood, Fabric, & Finishes
    This course introduces the use and care of wood structures, covering materials, and aircraft finishes. Students practice approved repair and finishing methods with safety as a central focus.
  • AERM 1254 Aircraft Composites
    Students study inspection and repair of composite, laminated, and bonded materials. The course includes handling and storage of composites as well as repair of structural components and interiors.
  • AERM 2231 Airframe Inspection
    This course provides in-depth training on conformity and airworthiness inspections, including 100-hour checks. Students learn to use FAA regulations and manufacturer service information with a focus on safety.

The first fall and spring semesters are 14 credits and the final fall semester is 12 credits.

Cost & Duration

The program spans approximately 18 months across three semesters. Total tuition costs range from approximately $3,960 for in-district students to $13,100 for out-of-state students for the complete 40-credit program.

Students should budget an additional $900 for the Federal Aviation Administration General/Airframe Exam Fee upon successful completion, plus lab and consumable fees as specified in course descriptions.

FAA Accreditation and Recognition

In December 2019, SWTJC achieved a significant milestone when they received official approval from the Federal Aviation Administration as a certified Part 147 General and Airframe training school.

According to college officials, the college had been working toward this approval for two years, with the application process beginning in 2018. This FAA 147 certification ensures that the curriculum meets federal standards and that graduates are eligible to take FAA mechanic examinations for professional licensure.

Faculty and Career Outcomes

The programs are led by experienced aviation professionals, including Thomas A. Mitchell, who serves as Program Coordinator and holds both Airframe and Powerplant Technician licenses along with a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Aeronautics from Hallmark University. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data cited by the college, the median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $62,920 as of May 2018, demonstrating strong earning potential for program graduates.

Facilities and Learning Environment

Instruction takes place both at the Del Rio campus for classroom lectures and at the Del Rio International Airport for hands-on laboratory training, providing students with real-world experience in an authentic aviation environment. The first cohort of students began classes in January following the FAA approval, marking the beginning of this new chapter in technical education for the region. The program was developed in response to community needs, particularly to provide workforce development for Laughlin Air Force Base and meet the increasing demand for aviation mechanics in the Del Rio area.

Related Programs


View All Aviation Mechanic Schools in Texas