Aviation Technician - Avionics Maintenance AVM4

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.

Literacy Good oral and written communication skills to effectively convey scientific and technical information.

Math Good mathematical abilities (need grade 12 math).

Technology is used in the delivery of all courses. Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office, email, Internet).

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 or Aircraft Avionics Technician.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Primarily indoors in hangars or laboratories
• May be required to work outdoors on airport ramps
• May be required to reach, climb and lift heavy objects
• Need to be able to distinguish component parts (colour vision)
• May work in noisy environments, in uncomfortable positions or confined spaces, or at a height
• Will work closely with other aircraft maintenance personnel (teamwork)
• International contracts are possible and may require travel

Places you may find yourself employed include

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

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Inspection, servicing, modification and installation of electrical and lighting systems, communication systems, navigation systems, auto-flight systems, and aircraft systems
• Documenting all maintenance performed
• May use computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) applications and engineering drawing when implementing modifications to avionics and aircraft systems
• Maintaining installed avionics on aircraft
• Installing, troubleshooting, repairing and testing avionics equipment (for example, communications, navigation and flight guidance systems) in aircraft
• Maintaining and testing avionics systems in an approved laboratory environment.
• Installing, interfacing, configuring and modifying avionics systems
• Technical writing
• Equipment sales, customer relations
• Fabricating basic sheet metal assemblies
• Entering aircraft technical records including aircraft inspections, journey and technical logbooks
• Troubleshooting electrical, electromechanical and electronic instrumentation, circuits and sub-assemblies
• Monitoring and adhering to quality assurance and safety management policies and procedures

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

• 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.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Course work may be used as a basis of university admission or credits may transfer to a university degree at many different schools. More information online.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024