Best institutions to study Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of aircraft powerplant and related systems.
97 U.S. institutions graduated 3,661 Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician students in 2024–25 (IPEDS). It is CIP 47.0608, a specialization of Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians (CIP 47.06), and leads most directly to the Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians occupation (BLS SOC 49-3011).
About Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician programs
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of aircraft powerplant and related systems. Instruction includes engine inspection and maintenance, lubrication and cooling, electrical and ignition systems, carburetion, fuels and fuel systems, propeller and fan assemblies.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics, Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP 2020).
The Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills in the repair, service, and maintenance of aircraft powerplant and related systems. This program is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in the aviation industry, focusing on the mechanical aspects of aircraft operation.
Students will gain essential skills in engine inspection and maintenance, lubrication and cooling systems, electrical and ignition systems, and propeller and fan assemblies. Coursework emphasizes critical thinking, reading comprehension, and practical applications of mechanical knowledge.
Credentials awarded
What Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician graduates earned in 2024–25, by award level (IPEDS completions).
- Award of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years1,586 graduates / yr · 62 institutions43%
- Award of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic year920 graduates / yr · 25 institutions25%
- Associate's degree675 graduates / yr · 44 institutions18%
- Award of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years262 graduates / yr · 17 institutions7.2%
- Bachelor's degree132 graduates / yr · 1 institution3.6%
- Award of less than 12 weeks54 graduates / yr · 2 institutions1.5%
- Master's degree30 graduates / yr · 1 institution0.8%
- Postbaccalaureate certificate2 graduates / yr · 1 institution0.1%
Graduates over time
Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician completions reported to IPEDS each year, all award levels combined.
| Year | Graduates |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 1,816 |
| 2013 | 2,102 |
| 2014 | 2,414 |
| 2015 | 2,440 |
| 2016 | 2,778 |
| 2017 | 2,592 |
| 2018 | 2,436 |
| 2019 | 2,642 |
| 2020 | 2,598 |
| 2021 | 2,420 |
| 2022 | 2,738 |
| 2023 | 2,964 |
| 2024 | 3,372 |
| 2025 | 3,661 |
Top 50 institutions for Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician, ranked by graduates
Graduates (IPEDS completions), 2024–25. Award levels show which credentials each institution confers in this specialization.
| # | Institution | Graduates / yr | Grad rate | Net price | Field earnings* (1 yr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Embry - Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide Daytona Beach, FLPrivate not-for-profitAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearBachelor'sAssociate'sMaster'sPost-degree cert. | 458 | 21% | $21,266 | $76,663 |
| 2 | Jefferson Community and Technical College Louisville, KYPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 335 | 35% | — | $44,238 |
| 3 | George T Baker Aviation Technical College Miami, FLPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 137 | 31% | — | — |
| 4 | Somerset Community College Somerset, KYPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 129 | 43% | — | $30,857 |
| 5 | Wichita State University - Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology Wichita, KSPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 111 | 43% | — | $47,014 |
| 6 | Enterprise State Community College Enterprise, ALPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 107 | 42% | — | — |
| 7 | Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics West Mifflin, PAPrivate not-for-profitAssociate's | 105 | 76% | $31,614 | $52,407 |
| 8 | West Los Angeles College Culver City, CAPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 98 | 28% | — | $65,978 |
| 9 | Pima Community College Tucson, AZPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 96 | 28% | — | $37,826 |
| 10 | Texas State Technical College Waco, TXPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 88 | 46% | — | $38,506 |
| 11 | National Aviation Academy of Tampa Bay Clearwater, FLPrivate for-profitAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years | 77 | 76% | $29,957 | $48,783 |
| 12 | Tulsa Technology Center Tulsa, OKPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic year | 74 | 81% | — | $36,437 |
| 13 | St Philip's College San Antonio, TXPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate'sAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic year | 59 | 28% | — | — |
| 14 | North Central Institute Clarksville, TNPrivate for-profitAward of less than 12 weeks | 53 | 100% | $25,239 | $47,144 |
| 15 | Tarrant County College District Fort Worth, TXPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 52 | 34% | — | $50,956 |
| 16 | Chandler - Gilbert Community College Chandler, AZPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 51 | 30% | — | — |
| 17 | Snead State Community College Boaz, ALPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 50 | 49% | — | — |
| 18 | Georgia Northwestern Technical College Rome, GAPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAssociate'sAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years | 50 | 43% | — | — |
| 19 | Lansing Community College Lansing, MIPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 46 | 25% | — | — |
| 20 | Big Bend Community College Moses Lake, WAPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAssociate'sAward of less than 12 weeks | 41 | 42% | — | — |
| 21 | Central Georgia Technical College Warner Robins, GAPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAssociate'sAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years | 41 | 47% | — | $42,493 |
| 22 | SOWELA Technical Community College Lake Charles, LAPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic yearsAssociate's | 39 | 43% | — | — |
| 23 | Western Suffolk BOCES Northport, NYPublicAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years | 39 | 84% | — | $43,952 |
| 24 | Coastal Alabama Community College Bay Minette, ALPublicAssociate'sAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 37 | 31% | — | — |
| 25 | Rock Valley College Rockford, ILPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 36 | 37% | — | $41,625 |
| 26 | Portland Community College Portland, ORPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 35 | 18% | — | $48,144 |
| 27 | Columbus State Community College Columbus, OHPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 34 | 28% | — | — |
| 28 | College of Alameda Alameda, CAPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 33 | 33% | — | — |
| 29 | Honolulu Community College Honolulu, HIPublicAssociate'sAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 33 | 25% | — | $52,460 |
| 30 | Atlanta Technical College Atlanta, GAPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic year | 32 | 49% | — | $27,448 |
| 31 | Savannah Technical College Savannah, GAPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic yearsAssociate's | 32 | 42% | — | $34,926 |
| 32 | Clover Park Technical College Lakewood, WAPublicAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years | 32 | 43% | — | — |
| 33 | Colorado Northwestern Community College Rangely, COPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic yearsAssociate's | 31 | 34% | — | — |
| 34 | Maysville Community and Technical College Maysville, KYPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 31 | 56% | — | — |
| 35 | Lively Technical College Tallahassee, FLPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 30 | 51% | — | $28,179 |
| 36 | Antelope Valley Community College District Lancaster, CAPublicAssociate'sAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 29 | 34% | — | — |
| 37 | Sacramento City College Sacramento, CAPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 29 | 33% | — | — |
| 38 | Midland College Midland, TXPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 29 | 23% | — | — |
| 39 | Pennsylvania College of Technology Williamsport, PAPublicAssociate'sAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 28 | 53% | — | $50,519 |
| 40 | Southwest Technology Center Altus, OKPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic year | 28 | 78% | — | — |
| 41 | Aviation Institute of Maintenance - Atlanta Duluth, GAPrivate for-profitAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years | 28 | 46% | $26,027 | $39,480 |
| 42 | University of Arkansas - Pulaski Technical College North Little Rock, ARPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic yearsAssociate's | 25 | 36% | — | $21,483 |
| 43 | Cape Cod Community College West Barnstable, MAPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 25 | 22% | — | — |
| 44 | Northwest Florida State College Niceville, FLPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 24 | 39% | — | — |
| 45 | Vincennes University Vincennes, INPublicAssociate'sAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 24 | 39% | — | $51,465 |
| 46 | Sinclair Community College Dayton, OHPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAssociate's | 24 | 41% | — | — |
| 47 | Pierpont Community and Technical College Fairmont, WVPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 24 | 42% | — | — |
| 48 | State Technical College of Missouri Linn, MOPublicAssociate's | 23 | 84% | — | $42,544 |
| 49 | Tom P. Haney Technical College Panama City, FLPublicAward of at least 1 but less than 2 academic years | 22 | 61% | — | $30,088 |
| 50 | South Georgia Technical College Americus, GAPublicAward of at least 12 weeks but less than 1 academic yearAward of at least 2 but less than 4 academic years | 22 | 61% | — | $28,841 |
* Median earnings 1 year after graduation for the broader Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians field (CIP 47.06) at these institutions; College Scorecard does not publish earnings at the 6-digit level.
Offered in 36 states & territories
Where Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician graduates come from. Each state links to all Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians programs offered there.
Careers & outlook
The payoff after graduation: occupation 49-3011, Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians, and its national outlook.
Graduates can pursue careers as Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians, with an expected job growth rate of 4% and approximately 11,300 annual openings. The median wage for this occupation is $78,680, typically requiring a postsecondary nondegree award.
Top-paying metros
Career pathways for CIP 47.0608
The occupations the NCES crosswalk maps this 6-digit code to, with BLS pay and 10-year outlook.
| Occupation | US median pay | Growth | Openings / yr | Typical entry education |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Techniciansprimary SOC 49-3011 | $79,870 | +4.0% About as fast as average | ~11,300 | Postsecondary nondegree award |
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers SOC 51-2011 | $65,380 | -14.5% Decline | ~2,800 | High school diploma or equivalent |
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
- Education
- Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
- Experience
- Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Related careers
Skills & knowledge in Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician programs
From the U.S. Dept. of Labor for the occupation this specialization most leads to.
Skills you'll build
Knowledge areas
Abilities that matter most
Day-to-day work activities
What graduates do on the job
- Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.
- Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
- Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.
- Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.
- Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations.
- Replace or repair worn, defective, or damaged components, using hand tools, gauges, and testing equipment.
Tools and technology used
Other Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians specializations
The 17 other 6-digit CIP codes under Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians (CIP 47.06).
- Automobile/CIP 47.0604
Automotive Mechanics Technology/ Technician 46,331 graduates / yr762 institutions - Diesel Mechanics Technology/CIP 47.0605
Technician 10,165 graduates / yr309 institutions - Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance Technology/CIP 47.0607
Technician 9,434 graduates / yr157 institutions - Autobody/CIP 47.0603
Collision and Repair Technology/ Technician 5,352 graduates / yr264 institutions - Medium/CIP 47.0613
Heavy Vehicle and Truck Technology/ Technician 2,278 graduates / yr87 institutions - Marine Maintenance/CIP 47.0616
Fitter and Ship Repair Technology/ Technician 918 graduates / yr48 institutions - Motorcycle Maintenance and Repair Technology/CIP 47.0611
Technician 852 graduates / yr28 institutions - Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology/CIP 47.0600
Technician 814 graduates / yr27 institutions - Avionics Maintenance Technology/CIP 47.0609
Technician 710 graduates / yr35 institutions - High Performance and Custom Engine Technician/CIP 47.0617
Mechanic 479 graduates / yr13 institutions - Alternative Fuel Vehicle Technology/CIP 47.0614
Technician 192 graduates / yr23 institutions - Small Engine Mechanics and Repair Technology/CIP 47.0606
Technician 182 graduates / yr24 institutions - Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/CIP 47.0699
Technicians 157 graduates / yr10 institutions - Engine MachinistCIP 47.0615limited data55 graduates / yr2 institutions
- Recreation Vehicle (RV) Service TechnicianCIP 47.0618limited data25 graduates / yr1 institutions
- Bicycle Mechanics and Repair Technology/CIP 47.0610
Technician limited data9 graduates / yr2 institutions - Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Technology/CIP 47.0612
Technician limited data2 graduates / yr1 institutions
See all Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians programs →
Common questions
What type of degree do I need for this program?+
Most students earn a postsecondary nondegree award, although some may pursue an Associate's degree.
How long does the program take to complete?+
Programs typically range from at least 12 weeks to less than 2 years.
What skills will I develop in this program?+
You will develop skills in reading comprehension, critical thinking, monitoring, and various technical tasks related to aircraft maintenance.
What career opportunities are available after graduation?+
You can work as an Aircraft Mechanic or in related roles, with a strong job outlook in the aviation industry.
What is the CIP code for Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician?+
Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician is CIP 47.0608 in the NCES Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP 2020), a 6-digit specialization within Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians (CIP 47.06). NCES defines it as: A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of aircraft powerplant and related systems. Instruction includes engine inspection and maintenance, lubrication and cooling, electrical and ignition systems, carburetion, fuels and fuel systems, propeller and fan assemblies.
How many institutions offer Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician programs?+
97 U.S. institutions reported Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician graduates in IPEDS 2024–25, across 36 states & territories, awarding 3,661 credentials in the year. That is 4.5% of all Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians graduates.
How much do Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician graduates earn?+
Earnings are not published at the 6-digit CIP level by any federal source. The Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians occupation, which Aircraft Powerplant Technology/Technician most directly leads to, pays a median of $79,870 a year nationally (BLS OEWS May 2025), and graduates of the broader Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies/Technicians field report median earnings of $43,285 one year after graduation (College Scorecard).
About the data on this page
Every figure comes from an official federal or public source. Here is each one and the release it is currently on.
Program definitions are from the NCES Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP 2020). Skills, knowledge, abilities, work activities, tools, and job zones are from the O*NET database by the U.S. Department of Labor, used under the CC BY 4.0 license.
Explore every U.S. college in one conversation
Clema turns plain-language questions into sourced answers across every U.S. institution — earnings, aid, acceptance, graduation, safety, and athletics from IPEDS, College Scorecard, and 10+ federal datasets, built in.
Free for teams up to 3 · No credit card