San Joaquin Valley College

Aviation Maintenance Technology

Fresno Trades Education Center (TEC)
Fresno, CA
Certificate · On Campus
Aviation Maintenance Technology
Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Taught on campus in Fresno, CA.
Not published
60 weeks (1,455 clock hours)
No application fee is charged.
Participates in federal aid: Pell & FSEO grants; Federal Direct Stafford (subsidized/unsubsidized) & PLUS loans; institutional low-interest loan; scholarships; VA benefits.

Aviation Maintenance Technology is a Certificate program offered by San Joaquin Valley College in Fresno, CA. The program takes 60 weeks (1,455 clock hours) to complete, with a total cost, including fees, of $42,076.

Program Overview

SJVC's Aviation Maintenance Technology Certificate of Completion program is 60 weeks in length and provides students with the skills and technical knowledge to perform aircraft, airframe, and powerplant maintenance and inspections. Hands-on training in the hangar includes servicing, troubleshooting, and repair of powerplant and airframe systems and components.

The program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration and approved by the California State Approving Agency to enroll veterans and other eligible persons.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the successful student will be able to:

  • Apply general aviation concepts in accordance with applicable regulations while following safety procedures.
  • Service, inspect, repair, and troubleshoot airframe structures and related components in accordance with applicable regulations while following safety procedures.
  • Service, inspect, repair, and troubleshoot aircraft engines and related components in accordance with applicable regulations while following safety procedures.
  • Relate and apply concepts of communication, reasoning, critical analysis, ethical behavior, and appropriate interpersonal interaction to situations in his or her career and personal life.
  • Demonstrate the social skills, professional appearance, attitudes and behavior that employers expect of all SJVC graduates.

What Sets This Program Apart

Graduates earn a Certificate of Completion in Aviation Maintenance Technology and are eligible to test for an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The College does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program.

Graduates of this Certificate program can apply their credits toward earning an Associate of Science Degree in Trades Studies by completing courses online.

Admission Requirements & Process

Making the decision to go back to school is one of the biggest steps on your journey to enrolling. At SJVC, our admissions process is straightforward, and our Admissions Department is dedicated to helping prospective students select the programs that best suit their needs and qualifications.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
    Applicants must possess a high school diploma or the equivalent. International diplomas and transcripts must be translated into English and academically evaluated for equivalency…
  • Minimum Age
    Applicants must meet the minimum age requirement as defined by the state where they plan to attend SJVC: 16 in Arizona and Idaho, 17 in California and Nevada, and 18 in New…
  • Admissions Interview
    Applicants must participate in an interview with an Enrollment Services Associate. During the interview, the Enrollment Services Associate will discuss available programs,…
  • Wonderlic SLE (Minimum 14)
    Applicants for all on-ground programs are required to take the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) prior to enrolling; the minimum score for this program is 14. Applicants who…
  • English Language Proficiency
    SJVC does not offer English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework; students are required to have proficiency in English as all instruction is presented in English. Proficiency may…
  • Valid Driver’s License
    Applicants must hold a valid, unexpired driver’s license issued by a U.S. state or U.S. territory.
  • No DUI or Felony Convictions
    Applicants must have no DUI convictions for the past 3 years and no felony convictions.
  • Age 18 by Week 16
    Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by the end of their first 16 weeks.
  • Acceptance Interview
    Applicants must meet with either the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. In addition to this interview, applicants…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Request Information
    Fill out the Request Information form. Once you do, an Admissions Representative will reach out to schedule you for a visit to one of our campuses, or to help you understand how our Online Programs work.
  2. 2
    Meet with Your Admissions Representative
    Our Admissions team will give you a tour of the campus and help you select the program that aligns best with your interests. Every applicant participates in an interview with an Enrollment Services Associate.
  3. 3
    Take an Entrance Exam
    Complete the admissions assessment (Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam for on-ground programs) and achieve the minimum required score for your program.
  4. 4
    Acceptance Interview
    Meet with the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. You may also be required to meet with the Director of your selected program.
  5. 5
    Meet with Financial Aid and Complete the FAFSA
    Meet with the Financial Services Department to confirm arrangements to meet tuition obligations. Our Financial Aid team can help you plan out how you will pay for college and identify aid you may qualify for.
    FAFSA Code for Fresno Trades Education Center (TEC): 014741
    Fill Out the FAFSA
  6. 6
    Sign Your Enrollment Agreement
    Sign an Enrollment Agreement, which sets forth specific information such as start and graduation dates, tuition information, and academic schedule, and complete all enrollment documentation. Then ring the admissions bell to celebrate getting accepted!
  7. 7
    Attend New Student Orientation
    All new students must complete New Student Orientation prior to their first class session. The specific date, time and location of orientation will be provided during the admissions process.
  8. 8
    Start Class
    All new students are required to be in attendance on their first day of class(es); absence on the first day will result in cancellation of the enrollment.

Program Schedule

60 weeks in length (Certificate of Completion). Offered to new students at the Fresno Trades Education Center (TEC).

Admission Requirements: Valid, unexpired Driver's License issued by a U.S. state or U.S. territory; no DUI convictions for the past 3 years; no felony convictions; applicants must be at least 18 years of age by the end of their first 16 weeks.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • December 14th, 2026
  • March 01st, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • July 19th, 2027
  • September 27th, 2027
  • December 06th, 2027

Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Cost
≈ $42,076
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

SJVC participates in federal financial aid programs; students who wish to apply for financial aid assistance must establish financial aid eligibility each year. In order to determine financial aid eligibility, students must complete the application process, meet academic progress standards, and be enrolled at least part-time. Financial assistance awarded through SJVC may consist of a combination of grants, loans, and scholarships. SJVC participates with federal, state and private agencies in providing various aid programs.

Types of Financial Aid Available

  • Federal Pell Grant Program – an important source of aid for students who demonstrate a financial need; a grant does not have to be repaid.
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants – a limited number of awards targeted to students who have the lowest calculated family income.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Subsidized) – for students requiring additional financial assistance; must be repaid, beginning six months after graduation or termination.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Unsubsidized) – independent students may borrow and begin interest payments while in school.
  • Federal Direct PLUS – parents of dependent students may borrow funds to meet educational expenses.
  • Institutional Loan – the College offers a low-interest loan program used only to pay tuition charges not covered by financial aid.
  • Student Scholarships – the College awards up to $40,000 annually in scholarships to high school seniors who meet certain requirements.

Total program tuition is $42,076 (tuition only; any fees billed separately).

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
AMTG 100Aircraft Basic Mechanics5
AMTG 110Regulations and Inspections5
AMTG 120Aviation Math and Physics5
AMTG 130Fundamentals of Electricity and Ground Operations5
AMTA 200Helicopter and Airframe Essentials5
AMTA 210Metallic Structures5
AMTA 220Aircraft Systems I5
AMTA 230Aircraft Systems II5
AMTP 240Turbine Engines5
AMTP 250Reciprocating Engines5
AMTP 260Aircraft Auxiliary Systems I5
AMTP 270Aircraft Auxiliary Systems II5
AMT 92Exam Readiness Seminar1

Career Outcomes

The Career Services Department offers a wide variety of career planning and employment-related services to current SJVC students and alumni. While SJVC does not guarantee employment, income, or wage rate, Career Services staff are available to assist students in developing job-readiness skills and pursuing employment in their chosen career fields. Some of the services offered include:

  • Résumé development
  • Job search assistance
  • Interview techniques
  • Career development courses
  • Career information panels
  • Employment-related workshops and programs

Career Academy

The Career Services Department partners students with the Career Academy to prepare students for the job search process. Utilizing an innovative, interactive hub, students will:

  • Engage in a variety of professional development games and activities.
  • Create high-quality professional résumés highlighting the skills acquired throughout their program.
  • Participate in mock interview sessions to develop effective interviewing skills.

A final exit interview will capstone the student's preparedness for interviewing with potential employers. Successful completion of each of these items is a graduation requirement.

What to Expect as a Student at San Joaquin Valley College

Housing

San Joaquin Valley College does not have dormitory facilities under its control, nor does it assist students in securing housing. However, limited guidance may be available through the Academic Dean to help students explore local housing options. According to the California Student Aid Commission's 2025–26 Student Expense Budget, students should budget approximately $1,691 per month for housing, which includes rent and utilities. These estimates are intended to help students plan their budgets and do not reflect actual housing offers or guarantees; students are solely responsible for evaluating and securing their own housing arrangements.

Additional Information and Student Services

Additional information related to the provision of student services and campus life in general may be found in the Student Handbook.

Location

Fresno Trades Education Center (TEC)
4985 East Andersen Avenue
Fresno, CA 93727

Accreditation & Approvals

Institutional Accreditation: San Joaquin Valley College is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501, (510) 748-9001. WSCUC.org. The WSCUC is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.

SJVC is a private institution and is approved to operate as an accredited institution by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Approval to operate means that SJVC has been found in compliance with the standards set forth in the California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 (as amended) and Title 5, Division 7.5 – Private Postsecondary Education of the California Code of Regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the programs?
In most programs, students can earn a certificate of completion in as few as 9 months, or an associate of science degree in as few as 14 months. This is a short-term investment that gives our graduates a long-term career advantage.
How much does it cost?
Tuition varies by campus, program of study and program credential level. Education is the most important investment you can make in your future. There is a financial plan available for everyone, including a broad range of financial assistance options. Visit SJVC’s Net Price Calculator to get personalized information on college costs and financial aid. Check out SJVC’s Consumer Information to learn about program costs by campus and credential level. You also can talk to an Admissions Representative to discuss the costs of your chosen program, and schedule an appointment with an experienced financial aid officer.
Will I fit in?
Our students are all unique, but most will agree that SJVC made them feel like they fit right in thanks to the family-like atmosphere you can find on all of our campuses.
What kinds of career training do you offer?
SJVC offers more than 20 highly specialized, short-term career education programs on 15 campuses located throughout California — in addition to an online division. You can earn your associate of science degree or certificate in a wide variety of medical, dental, business, industrial and trades programs. Our programs offer the right balance of hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare you for success in your chosen career.
When do classes start?
Start dates for specific programs vary by campus, but classes begin year-round. Contact your local campus or our online division to find out when your chosen program begins — the best time to start is now!
What is the class schedule like?
SJVC’s ground campuses offer morning, afternoon or evening classes for many programs. Students in online programs learn from and communicate with their instructors on a flexible schedule. When you meet with your Admissions Representative, they can give you specific information on the programs and campus you’re most interested in.
Can I take classes online?
Yes. SJVC offers several programs online, including: • Business Office Administration • Construction Management • Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science • Health Care Management Bachelor of Science • Human Resources Administration • Information Technology • Clinical Medical Assisting • Medical Billing and Coding • Respiratory Therapy Bachelor of Science In some programs, students at our ground campuses in California may also take certain classes online. This helps students improve their technology skills and allows for schedule flexibility. Learn more about our online programs.
Do you offer financial assistance?
There are a variety of financial aid programs available to SJVC students. Financing your education can be accomplished through several options, including: Grants, scholarships, student loans, private financing and payment plans. Contact an Admissions Representative to set up your financial aid consultation. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
What job opportunities will be waiting for me when I graduate?
SJVC works with local employers to find out what job skills are in high demand. Our hands-on training gives you the skills and experience you need to compete in today’s job market. The Career Services Department works with all graduates to help them find a job in their chosen career. Visit our Consumer Information page or the page of the program you’re interested in to learn about common jobs our students are placed in after graduation.
Can I do it?
We are here to see you succeed. SJVC believes in our students. Our faculty and staff will help you stay on the path to success from the moment you first speak with an Admissions Representative to graduation and into your career. SJVC is committed to the success of every student.
What types of aircraft systems will I train on?
Students in an aircraft maintenance technology program develop knowledge across a range of aircraft systems used in maintenance and repair. Training typically includes airframe and powerplant components, such as engine systems, electrical systems, and structural elements of the aircraft. Students may also gain experience working with systems related to fuel, hydraulics, pneumatics, and basic avionics, along with inspection and troubleshooting procedures used in aviation maintenance. Training is designed to reflect the types of systems aviation maintenance technicians work with in real-world environments.
Is this program aligned with FAA expectations?
Yes. SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), meaning the curriculum meets established standards for aviation maintenance training. FAA-approved programs are designed to cover the knowledge and skill areas associated with airframe and powerplant maintenance. Graduates may be eligible to pursue FAA certification pathways, such as the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. Completion of the program does not guarantee certification or licensure.
What are common admission requirements for the AMT Program?
Admission requirements for the Aviation Maintenance Technology program are designed to help ensure students are prepared for training and industry expectations. Applicants typically must: • Provide a valid, unexpired driver’s license • Have no DUI convictions within the past 3 years • Be at least 18 years of age by the end of their first 16 weeks in the program Additional requirements may apply. For full admissions details and next steps, visit the College Catalog.
What does an aircraft mechanic do?
Aircraft mechanics, also known as aviation maintenance technicians, inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft systems to help support safe operation. Their work can include diagnosing mechanical or electrical issues, performing routine maintenance, and replacing or repairing components. They also follow technical manuals, test systems and parts after maintenance, and keep detailed records of the work performed. For a closer look at day-to-day responsibilities and career paths, explore the Aviation Maintenance Career Guide.
How long is aircraft mechanic school?
The length of an aircraft mechanic program can vary, but training programs like SJVC’s can be completed in as few as 14 months for a certificate of completion.
How to become an airline mechanic?
Learning how to become an airline mechanic typically involves completing an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technology program, gaining hands-on experience, and meeting certification requirements such as the FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Aviation Maintenance Technology at Fresno Trades Education Center (TEC).
Aviation Maintenance Technology