Aviation Technician - Aircraft Maintenance AAM4

Holland Code: R (Realistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see the website for details.

Math & Science Good math skills needed, grade 12 math required
Students who do not have the required level of comfort and ability with math may want to consider the Pre-Technology Program.

Literacy Applicants should have good oral and written communication skills to effectively convey scientific and technical information.

Technology Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office suite, email, Internet). The technology used in the delivery of all courses. The moderate use of student portal system, students need to check email and posts several times per week.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• The desire and ability to be careful and accurate to the smallest detail
• Excellent mechanical aptitude
• The ability to select, interpret and follow instructions provided in written or blueprint form, and to interpret regulations
• Analytical ability, persistence and excellent troubleshooting skills
• Enjoy using tools, equipment and machinery to perform tasks requiring precision
• The ability to work well with others but also make decisions independently, often under pressure
• Good organizational and time management skills
• An interest in keeping up to date by taking additional training as required
• A commitment to working to the highest standards of safety

Useful background experience for this program would be

Automotive maintenance or electrical/electronic experience would be an asset for this program.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become an

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer –Maintenance of Small Aircraft (AME-M1) fixed or rotary wing or an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer –Maintenance of Large Aircraft (AME-M2) fixed or rotary-wing.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Work is primarily indoors in hangars or shops, but may be required to work outdoors on airport ramps
• May require the use of safety equipment or clothing
• May work in noisy environments, in uncomfortable positions or in confined spaces, or at heights
• May work in remote locations for extended periods of time
• May be required to lift, reach and climb

Places you may find yourself employed include

Air carriers, aircraft repair and overhaul companies, flight training schools, aeronautical product manufacturers, or component shops.

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Inspect and test aircraft systems to ensure they are in proper working order
• Diagnose malfunctions or other problems in the aircraft or in mechanical components or systems including engines, hydraulic systems, flight control systems and fuel systems, as per technical manuals, drawings or blueprints
• Disassemble aircraft systems and remove defective components
• Assemble and/or install replacement parts, components and structures, as per technical manuals, drawings or blueprints
• Record problems and the action taken to rectify them, maintaining an accurate record of the maintenance history of the aircraft
• Will work on engines, flight controls, landing gear, fuel systems, environmental control systems, pneumatic or hydraulic systems.
• Repair, replace, assemble and install aircraft parts
• Test the operation of aircraft systems to locate the source of malfunctions and trouble-shoot problems
• Inspect parts to ensure they are in proper working order
• Perform routine maintenance tasks such as changing oil and cleaning filters
• Conduct and record routine and special inspections as required by regulations
• Complete entries in log books (technical records)

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

Websites with good information for further research on the careers associated with this program

• This program provides 18 months of Approved Basic Training credit towards the 48 months experience required to obtain a Transport Canada Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) license in the “M” Category provided the student achieves at least : 95% attendance over the two years; 70% in the theory section of every course in the program; and 70% in the practical section of every course in the program
• CCAA (Canadian Council for Aviation and Aerospace)
• Transport Canada
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

What is the difference between a technician and a technologist?
Check out this chart the from OACETT website.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024