Western Iowa Tech Community College (WIT) has received official approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its new Aviation Maintenance Technology program, clearing the way for students to begin training for careers in aircraft maintenance.
FAA representatives Brian Lundquist and Bart Van Heuveln recently visited WIT's aviation hangar to present the College with its Air Agency Certificate. The certification officially designates Western Iowa Tech as an FAA Part 147 Aviation Maintenance Technician School.
"This certification represents a tremendous amount of work and preparation to make certain we are providing students with the training, equipment, and experience they need to enter the aviation maintenance industry,” said Frank Urbanski, WIT Administrative Program Coordinator for Aviation Maintenance. "We're excited to take this next step and continue building the program for the future.”
The approval marks the culmination of extensive planning, curriculum development, facility preparation, and coordination required to meet FAA standards.
The Aviation Maintenance Technology program provides hands-on training in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of aircraft and aircraft components. Students train with aircraft engines, landing gear, instruments, and other equipment while developing the technical knowledge and practical skills used throughout the aviation industry.
The two-year Associate of Applied Science program includes 77 credits and prepares graduates to pursue FAA certification and employment opportunities with airlines, government agencies, private corporations, and other aviation employers. WIT also offers a one-year Aviation Airframe Maintenance Technician diploma.
The program's hangar is located at Sioux Gateway Airport/Brig. Gen. Bud Day Field, giving students the opportunity to train in an active aviation environment and gain firsthand experience with the industry.
The first group of aviation maintenance students is beginning the program this fall, and the College looks forward to welcoming additional students next fall.
For more information about Western Iowa Tech's Aviation Maintenance Technology program, visit witcc.edu/programs/302 or contact Frank Urbanski, Aviation Maintenance Program Coordinator, at 712.317.8583 or frank.urbanski@witcc.edu.