With industry in need of aircraft mechanics, we examine five AMT programs across Washington.
Repairing planes. Replacing parts. Using precision tools. Troubleshooting and testing. The work of Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) is varied, important, and pays well. Airlines hire AMTs to work on the flight line, working on a variety of aircraft and performing all parts of the maintenance process. Aircraft makers, including Boeing, also need AMTs.
Five community and technical colleges in Washington offer AMT programs: Everett Community College, South Seattle College, Clover Park Technical College, Big Bend Community College and Spokane Community College. Each program is sited at an airfield, from Paine in Everett to Felts Field in Spokane, ensuring students have access to a hangar and planes, getting the feel of coming to a working airfield every day.
At the end of eight quarters, students are prepared to test and earn their FAA Airframe and Powerplant license. Courses range from the theoretical to the practical, with employers looking for skills in aircraft structures, systems, troubleshooting, regulations, teamwork and personal accountability.
AMT instructors at Washington’s Community & Technical Colleges have extensive knowledge and deep backgrounds from their careers in the aviation field. Their education and experience in positions such as FAA mechanics examiner, FAA inspection authorization and commercial airline maintenance have provided them with the skills needed to train the next generation of AMTs.
Instruction is provided in both classrooms and in the hangar, accessing a variety of engine types including turbines and jets. Programs are approved by the Washington State Aeronautics Commission and the Federal Aviation Administration. Clover Park Technical College specializes in helicopter maintenance and repair. Learn more about their specialty here.
According to a 2024 report from jobseq, AMTs can expect to earn $52,600 at entry level, with the average (mean) wages in Washington $81,300 and experienced AMTs earning $95,600. The same report shows an annual demand of over 400 AMTs per year, based on industry growth and retirement numbers. As of June 2024, data shows more than 300 active job advertisements in Washington State, showing the need for AMTs.
Course titles give the prospective AMT an idea of what to expect in class and at work: Corrosion/Fluid Lines, Aircraft Drawings, Ignition and Start Systems, Engine Fire Protection, Sheet Metal and Airframe Inspection are just some of the classes required to successfully complete the program and prepare students to take the FAA written and practical and oral examinations for Airframe and Powerplant.
Want to get to know what the labs look like? Check out the Center of Excellence’s photos of the hangars at Big Bend, Clover Park and Spokane Community College.