Airframe and Powerplant Technology Degree Review - Associate Degree Program

Published Oct 27, 2006

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Airframe and Powerplant Technicians generally work on the maintenance and construction of planes. With an Associates degree in Airframe and Powerplant Technology you may seek employment as an Aircraft Dispatcher, Aircraft Operator, Structural Assembler, Airframe and Powerplant Repair Technician or be involved in Airport Management.

Summary of the an Administrative Office Technology Degree Program

As an Airframe and Powerplant Technician you will learn how to work with sheet-metal and wooden structures, dope and fabric as well as learning aircraft airframe inspection. In this degree program you will receive a General Aircraft Maintenance Certificate.

Specific Skills You Will Learn

As an Airframe and Powerplant professional you will responsible for assembly, rigging, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, electrical systems, cabin atmosphere, fuel, ice and rain systems. You will become highly skilled in navigation and communication systems. You will develop leadership skills and become an advisor to top management.

Typical Coursework

Though coursework will vary depending on the college you choose, common areas of study in Airframe and Powerplant Technology degree programs include:

  • Radio Telephone License
  • Composites Fabrication and Repair
  • Aircraft Airframe
  • Blueprint Interpretation

Career Related Information

Career Fields You Will Be Prepared to Enter

In choosing to earn a degree as an Airframe and Powerplant Technicians you will be entering into a highly respected field that will carry much responsibility. Airframe and Powerplant Technicians specializing in repair work closely with design engineers. You will also be trained in the reading of blueprints to learn where repairs need to be done. Mechanics may work on one or many types of aircraft: jets, propeller-driven airplanes and helicopters.

Some Airframe and Powerplant Technicians hone their skills in one section of a certain type of aircraft. Advances in technology are changing how new technicians forge their future. As technology advances, more techniques change in repairing electronic systems such as navigation and radar.

Occupational Outlook For Administrative Office Technology Including Salary Information

The website cowley.edusays the employment market for Airframe and Powerplant Technicians has been tight in the past. As older mechanics retire new jobs openings develop. Also, many technicians within the field become specialized, moving on to different positions providing employment opportunities to new graduates. In the past the number of students in Airframe and Powerplant Technology programs has dropped. The demand for Airframe and Powerplant Technicians is increasing and as demand for skilled labor increases and technology grows.

According to www.bls.gov, the lowest wage for an Airframe and Powerplant Technology graduate is $50,748 while the highest paid Technicians earn $61,788. Airframe and Powerplant Technicians who work on jets for the major airlines earn more than other mechanics. Airframe and Powerplant Technicians who work full-time usually receive health benefits, paid vacations and have a retirement plan. They also receive travel discounts for themselves and their family members.

Featured School Choices:

  • Universal Technical Institute

    Universal Technical Institute responds quickly to information requests through this site.

    Suggested programs:
    • Aviation Maintenance AAS
    More information about Universal Technical Institute
  • Vincennes University

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  • University of Alaska Fairbanks

    University of Alaska Fairbanks responds quickly to information requests through this site.

  • Southern Arkansas University Tech

    Southern Arkansas University Tech responds quickly to information requests through this site.

  • South Louisiana Community College

    South Louisiana Community College responds quickly to information requests through this site.

  • Solano Community College

    Solano Community College responds quickly to information requests through this site.