Aviation Maintenance

Aircraft technician in a hard hat stands on a maintenance platform beside a passenger jet in a large hangar.

Aviation Maintenance

School of STEM and Professional Studies

AAS Degree

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Pathway

Regional Hughesville Campus

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Your Future in Aviation Starts Here

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Learn the skills. Work on real aircraft. Build a career that takes you places.

Prepare for an aviation maintenance career through hands-on training in aircraft structures, engines, electrical systems, and maintenance practices at the College of Southern Maryland.

At CSM you can earn your two-year Aviation Maintenance degree while preparing for FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certification.

This program can open doors to multiple sectors of the aviation industry, including commercial airlines, general aviation, corporate aviation, aerospace companies, and government contracting.

The associate degree can also provide an additional educational foundation for students interested in pursuing leadership, supervisory, or other advanced positions as they gain industry experience.

This program has an estimated start date of Fall 2027.

About the Aviation Mechanic Certificate

An FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic certificate is the standard qualification required to maintain, repair, and overhaul aircraft in the United States. Under Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 65, the certification is split into two distinct ratings—Airframe (A) and Powerplant (P) mechanic certificate. CSM's program prepares you for both.

Airframe Rating ("A")

The Airframe rating covers the structural and mechanical components of an aircraft, excluding the engine and propeller. It ensures the physical integrity and flight control systems of the airframe are airworthy.

Woman examines the inner mechanics of a plane

Powerplant Rating ("P")

The Powerplant rating covers the aircraft's engines and propellers. It ensures that propulsion systems operate safely, reliably, and efficiently.

FAA-Approved Training Pending final approval

$80,180 Median Salary In 2025 According to the U.S. BLS

6% Projected Growth in Job Demand From 2024-2034 According to the U.S. BLS

Latest Program News

Now Hiring Instructors

Train the Next Generation of Aviation Mechanics

Are you interested in teaching as part of the Aviation Maintenance program?

CSM is hiring instructors, including those who may have extensive aviation maintenance experience but have never considered entering the teaching field.

Complete the Interest Form

Note: FAA regulation 14 CFR § 147.19 outlines instructor qualification requirements, including the ability for appropriately qualified individuals to teach assigned content.