Avionics Technology, C.A.S.

Dr. Brad Gilbert, Aviation Maintenance Technology Program Coordinator
(304) 367-4800
Brad.Gilbert@pierpont.edu

Program Purpose

The Avionics program is focused on providing a technology-based one-year Certificate of Applied Science program designed to meet the growing demand for qualified avionics technicians in the aviation maintenance industry and to support workforce development in the thirteen county north-central West Virginia service area of Pierpont Community and Technical College.

Avionics is the study of aircraft communication, navigation, weather detection, traffic avoidance, terrain avoidance, on board air traffic control systems, instrument systems, electricity, and electronics with the goal of developing the knowledge and skills required to install, test, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair avionics systems in all types of aircraft.

Classes are held in a theory and hands on format, with students working in teams progressing together through the entire program. Class sizes are limited to match available resources. Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in all major courses to progress in the program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the CAS degree in Avionics Technology, graduates will be able to do the following:

• Use written and spoken English effectively and professionally as demonstrated though the successful completion of the required forms and assigned presentations. This is required by 14 CFR part 65 of the Federal Aviation Regulations
• Use a computer to perform work-specific duties as demonstrated through the successful completion of assigned research projects and effective use of FAA.Gov.
• Apply mathematics and knowledge of the physical sciences as a means of analyzing data and solving problems in the work environment. The student must show understanding and demonstrate through solving electronic circuit problems as assigned and through comprehensive tests on the subject matter.
• Apply appropriate safety precautions when working with various tools, machinery, or processes.
• Interpret schematic drawings, use appropriate measuring devices, test equipment and demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot and repair Avionics and electrical systems. The student must show understanding and demonstrate through solving electronic circuit problems as assigned and through comprehensive tests on the subject matter
• Demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot and repair wiring and power distribution systems. The student must show understanding and demonstrate through solving electronic circuit problems as assigned and
• through comprehensive tests on the subject matter
• Perform interfacing between aircraft systems and subsystems. The student must show understanding and demonstrate through interfacing systems in hands on tests as assigned and through comprehensive tests on the subject matter
• Operate hand and specialty tools to repair electrical and avionics systems. The student must show understanding and demonstrate through hands on tests as assigned.
• Demonstrate basic workplace skills and responsibilities, including punctuality, etiquette and courtesy, and teamwork.

Opportunities

Currently, there are many job openings for people with practical knowledge of avionics in the aircraft maintenance industry. The current work force is aging and experienced technicians are retiring, so a new generation of qualified people is needed to keep the industry running. An Avionics technician (Especially one who holds an A&P certification) can find work anywhere in the industry Local anticipated wages for entry-level graduates are estimated to range from $30,000 to $40,000 annually, with earning potential rising with additional experience.

Important Notice

To be considered for admissions into the Avionics program, the applicant must:

• Submit an application for admission designating Avionics Technology as the major field of study, submit a GED or High School transcript with a GPA 2.0 or above.
• Have a score of 19 or better in the Math portion of the ACT (or SAT equivalent) or have successfully completed Math 1201S
• Have a score of 18 or better in the English portion of the ACT (or SAT equivalent)