Airframe and Powerplant Program

Aviation Airframe and Powerplant

Build the skills you need to pass FAA certification and work in aviation maintenance.

See How You Can Afford It

Build the skills you need to pass FAA certification and work in aviation maintenance.

See How You Can Afford It

Build Connections

Small class sizes allow you to build strong relationships with your instructors and classmates.

Career Variety

Find roles in commercial, defense, manufacturing and private sectors.

Experienced Instructors

Learn from FAA certified instructors with experience navigating the challenges of the field.

The Sky’s the Limit
for Your Future

Prepare for a career in aviation maintenance at Ozarks Tech! In this program, you’ll learn how to:

  • Repair airplane engines and structures

  • Keep proper records and follow safety rules

  • Perform inspections and regular maintenance

Courses take place at the Roy Blunt Aviation Training Center on the Springfield-Branson National Airport. The lab features four airplanes and a helicopter that you’ll use to practice your skills.

This training prepares you to test for certification as an Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT). Certify in a single specialty or as an AMT with both Airframe and Powerplant ratings.

Program Information

Explore our accreditation information, find program contacts and learn more about how to apply to Ozarks Tech.

General Admissions to Ozarks Tech

Admission to Ozarks Technical Community College is open to all individuals who can benefit from its educational programs. A focus of the college mission is on the academic, career and personal goals of the student. OTC may admit you as a First-Time student just completing their high schoolGED or HiSET requirements or as a Transfer student coming from another institution finishing up a certificate or degree. For more information, visit OTC Admissions.

Wondering how you’re going to pay for college? At OTC, we believe that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to earning a degree. Our staff will work with you to make a financial plan. To browse the resources available to you, see paying for college.

At Ozarks Tech, we want your transfer process to be easy. We accomplish this goal through articulation agreements. These agreements are an official partnership to match coursework between schools. This gives you a more seamless transition from Ozarks Tech to a four-year institution.

We have established an agreement for this program. This will simplify the transfer of your credits to partner schools. To understand how this degree will transfer, review the current articulation agreements. Be sure to consult with your transfer school to ensure you’re on the right path toward completing your four-year degree.

OTC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Our current accreditation status with the HLC is displayed on the page linked below. Our next comprehensive evaluation will be in 2030-2031. View more on OTC Accreditation.

Program Outcomes

View program outcomes

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Aviation Flight Technology

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Find Your Community

Getting involved is a great way to build connections and find your community on campus. With a variety of clubs and organizations and campus events it’s easy to find your people.

Life at Ozarks Tech

Course Information

Discover overview information, course sequences and specific course descriptions. Or, view the full catalog to see all the details.

Aviation Airframe and Powerplant Technician (A.A.S.)

A.A.S. Degree: 76Hours

The Airframe and Powerplant Technician degree prepares individuals with the technical knowledge and stills for a successful career in aviation maintenance. Students will be taught through hands-on courses, beginning with general mechanical and maintenance principles in aviation and then use practical real-world training to understand, maintain and inspect systems of an aircraft and engine such as airframe components and materials, electrical wiring, hydraulics, avionics, fuel systems, propellers, engines, and more. Training will include the knowledge and skills to properly maintain records, follow regulations, and perform inspections. Students will be prepared for the FAA written, oral and practical examinations for Certification as an Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) with both Airframe and Powerplant ratings (often referred to as an A&P mechanic).

A grade of “C” (70%) or better is required for all program required courses and students must pass the Written, Oral, and Practical Examinations for the General Mechanic and Airframe or Powerplant ratings.

Aviation Airframe and Powerplant Technician Program Requirements- 58 Credit Hours

Aviation Airframe and Powerplant Technician Program Requirements- 58 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 4

    AVI Maintenance Foundations

    In this course, students will develop the basic understanding and skills required in aviation maintenance as required by the FAA for Aviation General Maintenance certification. Students will learn how to read Aircraft Drawings and schematics, identify and utilize appropriate Materials and Processes, search for and understand Maintenance Publications, complete appropriate Forms and Records, and learn basic FAA Regulations including Mechanic Privileges and Limitations.

  • Credits: 4

    APT Materials and Processes

    In this course, students will further develop the foundational understanding and skills needed in aviation maintenance as required by the FAA for Aviation General Maintenance certification. Students will expand on knowledge and skills from APT 101 and add to this materials and processes for fluids and fittings, safe aircraft ground operations and servicing, and effective cleaning and corrosion control. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 101.
  • Credits: 2

    Aviation Mathematics

    Students will learn the basic mathematics processes and foundations of physics needed as an aviation maintenance technician. Students will apply the skills and procedures learned to activities that enhance understanding of the principles taught. 

  • Credits: 3

    Fundamentals of Electricity

    Students will learn foundational principles of electricity and electronics and apply basic technical skills for measuring various parameters of electricity as well as testing, problem solving, and servicing aircraft electrical equipment.

    Prerequisite(s): APT 101.
  • Credits: 5

    Airframe Design and Assembly

    Students will learn the theory of flight and its impacts on airframe design and structure. Applying this knowledge, students will learn safety practices and technical skills related to airframe rigging and assembly of aircraft components. Best practices for safe and thorough airframe inspection will also be taught in the course. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 102, APT 103, APT 104 
    Corequisite(s): APT 104
  • Credits: 4

    Airframe Metal Structures

    Students will learn knowledge and skills to inspect, install, and repair metal structures relating to the airframe. This course will also cover the basic welding skills needed as an Airframe maintenance technician. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 120 or concurrent enrollment.
  • Credits: 4

    Airframe Non-metal Structures

    Students will learn knowledge and skills to inspect, install, and repair non-metal structures relating to the airframe, including wood, fabric, fiberglass, plastic, and composite materials. This course will also cover the basic welding skills needed as an Airframe maintenance technician. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 120 or concurrent enrollment.
  • Credits: 4

    Aircraft Electrical Systems

    Students will expand on basic knowledge learned in APT-104 and learn safe practices, knowledge, and skills to inspect, install, and service the aircraft electrical systems not related to the engine.  

    Prerequisite(s): APT 104; APT 120 or concurrent enrollment.
  • Credits: 2

    Aircraft Fluid Systems

    Students will learn safe practices, knowledge, and skills to inspect, service, and troubleshoot the hydraulic, pneumatic, and fuel systems on an aircraft. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 120 or concurrent enrollment.
  • Credits: 3

    Aircraft Landing Systems

    Students will learn safe practices, knowledge, and skills to inspect, service, and repair the aircraft landing systems including brakes, struts, wheels, and tires. Students will furthermore apply knowledge to service landing gear retraction systems, position indicators, and warning systems. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 140; APT 150 or concurrent enrollment.
  • Credits: 2

    Aircraft Auxiliary Systems

    Students will learn knowledge and technical skills that relate to servicing comfort and safety of flight control systems. These systems include the Cabin Atmosphere control system, ice and rain control systems, and the fire protection systems.  Inspection, troubleshooting, service, and repair skills will be taught. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 140. 
  • Credits: 2

    Fundamentals of Avionics

    Students will learn knowledge and technical skills that relate to servicing avionics (aviation electronics) used for flight performance display (flight instruments), navigation and autopilot, and communication systems.

    Prerequisite(s): APT 140. 
  • Credits: 5

    Powerplant Theory and Repair

    Students will learn the mechanical theory and operating principals for aircraft engines with focus on reciprocating piston engines. Applying this knowledge, students will learn safety practices and technical skills related to installing, servicing, and overhauling piston engines. This course will also teach safe procedures and technical skills for airworthiness inspections of piston engines.  

    Prerequisite(s): APT 101, APT 102, APT 103, APT 104.
  • Credits: 5

    Petroleum Exhaust & Induction

    Students will learn knowledge and skills to inspect, service, and repair aircraft induction systems including the servicing of carburetor and induction manifolds. Other systems students will learn to service and maintain include airflow, cooling, and exhaust systems.

    Prerequisite(s): APT 200 or concurrent enrollment.
  • Credits: 3

    Ignition and Starting Systems

    Students will learn knowledge and skills to inspect, service, and repair aircraft engine ignition and starting systems, including reciprocating and turbine engines. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 200; APT 270 or concurrent enrollment.
  • Credits: 2

    Propeller Systems

    Students will learn knowledge and skills to install, remove, inspect, service, and repair propellers and propeller management systems.

    Prerequisite(s): APT 200 or concurrent enrollment. 
  • Credits: 4

    Advanced Powerplants

    Students will learn the mechanical theory and operating principles for advanced aircraft engines including turbine engines and inducted fan (Propfans). Applying this knowledge, students will learn safety practices and technical skills related to installing, servicing, and overhauling turbine engines. Principles and repair of thrust reversers will also be studied. This course will also teach safe procedures and technical skills for airworthiness inspections of turbine engines. 

    Prerequisite(s): APT 200.
General Education Requirements – 15 Credit Hours

General Education Requirements – 15 Credit Hours

CORE 42 is a statewide general education course of study intended to ensure that all graduates possess a common core of college-level skills and knowledge. CORE 42 specifies the basic competencies and knowledge areas that all students completing degrees at a Missouri public institution of higher education must complete. CORE 42 is comprised of dozens of courses distributed across five knowledge areas. These courses are designated with a Missouri Transfer (MOTR) course number, which guarantees the one-to-one transfer of these courses among all Missouri public institutions of higher education. Please refer to MDHE Core Transfer Curriculum for detailed information on CORE 42 courses.

All knowledge areas below, designated with the CORE 42 logo, indicate all courses in that area have been evaluated and provided a MOTR number for transfer to all Missouri public institutions of higher education.

Mathematical Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

Mathematical Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3

    Algebra for Calculus

    This course is a standard course in college-level algebra necessary for further studies in mathematics. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their graphs.

  • Credits: 4

    Algebra for Calculus With Support

    This course is a standard course in college-level algebra necessary for further studies in mathematics. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their graphs. MTH 130S will be driven by the same objectives as MTH 130, and satisfy the same requirement. The course design will provide students with more time, support, and individualized instruction to accomplish those objectives.

  • Credits: 3

    Trigonometry

    This course is a study of trigonometric function and their graphs, identities, equations and applications. Topics include an introduction to polar coordinates, vectors, and solutions of right and oblique triangles.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 130 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5

    Pre-Calculus Mathematics

    This course prepares students for calculus by integrating both college-level algebra and trigonometry. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their graphs; analytic trigonometry; and vectors. This course is designed for students with a prior background in algebra and trigonometry.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "B" or better in MTH 110 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5

    Analytic Geometry and Calculus I

    This is the first course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include an introduction to analytic geometry, limits and continuity, the derivative and differential, the definite integral and applications.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 131 or MTH 138 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5

    Analytic Geometry and Calculus II

    This is the second course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include techniques of formal integration, applications of definite integration, infinite sequences and series, parametrized curves and polar coordinates.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
  • Credits: 3

    Analytic Geometry and Calculus III

    This is the third course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include vector-valued functions, solid analytic geometry, partial differentiation, multiple integration and line and surface integrals in vector fields.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 141.
  • Credits: 3

    Applied Technical Mathematics

    Course content includes the fundamental processes of mathematics with emphasis on problem-solving techniques. This course covers mathematical principles and concepts applicable to the technical trades utilizing introductory algebra, geometry, elementary trigonometry, and basic statistical methods.

Written Communication – 6 Credit Hours

Written Communication – 6 Credit Hours

    • Credits: 5

      Composition I With Support

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.  English 100 will be driven by the same course objectives as English 101 and satisfy the same requirement.

    • or
    • Credits: 3

      Composition I

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.

  • Credits: 3

    Composition II

    This course continues developing students’ abilities to use research and writing to make informed and ethical arguments; effectively communicating these arguments to professional and expert audiences in a research-supported project. Moreover, the course further develops students’ skills in critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions.

    Emphasis is placed on honing skills of audience analysis, analytical reading, problem solving, research methods—including both primary and secondary research—and persuasive writing. Also, this course will acquaint students with patterns and conventions of multiple disciplinary communities. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and applying rhetorical strategy) prepares students for their academic and professional futures.

    Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101.
  • Credits: 3

    Technical Writing

    This course emphasizes developing the student’s ability to write clearly, concisely and accurately. Students practice collecting, analyzing, interpreting and presenting information in a variety of technical documents used in professional settings while using proper research and documentation techniques, sound visual design principles and effective writing styles suitable for a specific communicative context. Throughout, emphasis will be placed on honing skills in audience analysis, analytical reading, critical thinking, research methods and clear writing.

    Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101.
Oral Communication – 3 Credit Hours

Oral Communication – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3

    Public Speaking

    This is an introductory course in research, composition, delivery, and evaluation of speeches for a variety of purposes and occasions. Students develop skills in critical listening and analysis through small group and individual activities.

Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3

    U.S. History I: to 1865

    This course is a survey of the history of the United States from pre-Columbian societies through the Civil War, including formative political, social, economic and cultural developments. It also introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 120 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

  • Credits: 3

    U.S. History II: 1865-Present

    This course is a survey of the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the present, covering the political, economic, social and cultural developments that have shaped modern America. It introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing.  HST 130 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

  • Credits: 3

    American Government and Politics

    This introductory course familiarizes students with American and Missouri government constitutions, institutions, policies and processes. Students develop an understanding of the foundations, environment, and principles of democracy with key concepts about voting, political parties, campaigns, and interactions between the branches of government. The course emphasis is on the values, rights, and responsiblities that shape public decision making of active and informed citizens in the American political system. This course meets instruction requirements (Missouri Revised Statute 170.011.1) in the Constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri.

Program Specific Course – 3 Credit Hours

Program Specific Course – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3

    Technology & Digital Literacy

    This course provides an overview of digital literacy topics such as computer hardware, software, programming, security, safety, and information systems. This is a “hands-on” class learning to use the most common computer software programs and information resources facilities. This course provides a look at the structure and components of computers, their operating systems, and an introduction to various applications with emphasis on word processing, spreadsheet applications, presentation software, and Internet usage.

    Prerequisite(s): Keyboarding skill of 25 WPM or BUS 101 or CIS 100 recommended.

Locations Offered:

Notices & Disclaimers

*Costs displayed are based on current tuition and fee rates for the program’s required credit hours, as approved by the OTC Board of Trustees, and are subject to change without notice. Estimates reflect both in-district and out-of-district residency rates. Actual costs, degree completion time, and credit requirements may vary based on residency, prior credits, elective courses, program updates, and enrollment factors. For additional information on attendance costs, visit Cost of Attendancetuition and fees or contact us at 417-447-6900.

**Graduation rates vary by individual. For details on program enrollment, retention, exam/certification, and employment rates, visit Student Outcomes / Student Right-to-Know. Some careers on this list may require additional education and training. For program-specific accreditation visit OTC Accreditation.