UMA Opens State’s First AMT School: Here’s What You Need to Know

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Meeting the Demand in Maine's Aviation Sector

AUGUSTA — Responding to the growing demand from employers in Maine’s aviation and aerospace sectors, the University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) is set to open the state's first aviation maintenance technician (AMT) school. This initiative marks a significant step in addressing the industry's need for skilled professionals.

FAA Approval and Program Launch

UMA secured final approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in early July, allowing students to commence courses in late August. The program will combine online classes with hands-on training at UMA's Brunswick Landing aviation campus, offering a comprehensive educational experience.

Diverse Educational Pathways

Students enrolling in the program can earn an industry-recognized professional certificate or pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree. UMA’s use of state-of-the-art technology, including virtual reality for welding and aircraft painting, ensures that students receive up-to-date training, preparing them for successful careers in aviation maintenance.

Certification and Career Opportunities

Graduates of the five-semester certificate program will be eligible to sit for the exams required to become FAA-certified Airframe & Powerplant technicians. This certification allows them to work on various aircraft, including general aviation planes, airliners, and helicopters. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual salary for aircraft mechanics and service technicians is $76,260, with the potential to exceed $100,000.

Addressing a Critical Workforce Gap

Maine was one of only three states without an AMT school, despite the anticipated job growth in the sector both locally and nationally. U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King played pivotal roles in securing $400,000 in one-time Congressionally Directed Spending to help UMA launch the school. Additional support came from organizations such as LifeFlight of Maine and the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority. The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, through the Maine Technology Institute, contributed $200,000 in startup costs.

Industry Endorsements and Support

“Qualified aircraft mechanics are in extremely high demand and short supply,” said Jesse Laughlin, general manager of Northeast Air. “UMA’s production of skilled technicians will be invaluable to the aviation community and small businesses in Maine.”

Chris Kilgour, CEO of C&L Aviation Services, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the challenge of recruiting technicians from out of state. “It will be advantageous to be able to do so closer to home,” he said.

Building on Existing Success

UMA President Jenifer Cushman emphasized that the new AMT school builds on the success of the university’s existing aviation programs, which include crewed and uncrewed aircraft training. “This new Aviation Maintenance Technician School is the latest example of UMA’s responsiveness in meeting the workforce needs of Maine’s employers,” Cushman said. “Through this program, Mainers will be well prepared for good-paying careers in an exciting industry, and Maine aviation businesses and essential service providers like LifeFlight will have the skilled workforce they need to strengthen our economy and communities.”

Enrollment and Contact Information

Applications are still being accepted for fall and spring enrollment in the new AMT program. For more information about becoming a skilled professional in the aviation industry, visit uma.edu/aviation. For general inquiries or to schedule a visit to the UMA Aviation Center in Brunswick, contact Daniel Leclair at (207) 621-7481 or daniel.m.leclair@maine.edu.

Attribution source: Penbaypilot.com