Airframe Technology, C.A.S.

Dr. Brad Gilbert
Airframe Technology Program Coordinator
116 Robert C Byrd Aviation Center
304-367-4084
bgilbert@pierpont.edu

Program Purpose

This One-Year Airframe Technology Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) in the Aviation Technology Program provides students an opportunity to complete their eligibility for FAA certification for Airframe Mechanic within a 12-month time frame.

AVMT Admission Requirements

AVMT is a limited-enrollment program. To be eligible for admission, perspective students must apply to Pierpont Community and Technical College, select the AVMT major, and attend a mandatory AVMT information session. Eligible students must register to be considered officially enrolled. Enrollment will remain open until the number of registered students reaches the program’s capacity

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Airframe Technology Certificate of Applied Science, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of FAA regulations, maintenance practices, inspection requirements, and airworthiness standards for aircraft structures and systems.
• Identify and explain the construction, materials, and maintenance procedures for aircraft structures, including fuselage, wings empennage, and landing gear systems.
• Perform inspection, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures on airframe systems, such as hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical, environmental, and flight control systems, following FAA-approved guidelines.
• Use hand tools, precision measuring instruments, and specialized aviation maintenance equipment properly while following established safety protocols to prevent damage and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Analyze and diagnose structural and system-related discrepancies, apply systematic troubleshooting techniques, and implement appropriate corrective actions to ensure aircraft airworthiness and operational safety.

Opportunities in Airframe Technology

Upon completion of this Certificate of Applied Science in Airframe Technology, students will be marketable for employment to the local aircraft maintenance industry. Once employed, if they so desire, they will be able to pursue additional training to become eligible for an “add-on” FAA Powerplant Mechanic Certification as their time allows.

The aviation maintenance industry demand for certified aircraft technicians greatly exceeds the current supply, both locally and nationally. An entry-level certified aircraft airframe technician (1-3 years of experience) earns an average salary of $52,195. Senior-level certified aircraft airframe technicians (8+ years of experience) earn an average salary of $89,604.