Program Description
Aircraft Maintenance Engineers identify problems and repair and overhaul aircraft structural, mechanical and electrical systems. Interpreting technical manuals, drawings and blueprints, and testing aircraft systems require mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, a good understanding of computerized machinery, strong analytical skills, and the ability to read and understand service manuals. An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is responsible for ensuring the airworthiness of an aircraft, whether it is a fixed-wing airplane or a helicopter.
The 15-month Basic Training program is designed to train individuals wanting to work in the aerospace industry. There are three components required for licence application: training, experience, and successful completion of the Canadian Aviation Regulation exam. Aircraft Maintenance Engineers must complete a certified training program along with the required hours in industry to become certified. NLC’s program provides the full training component and 1.5 years of the four-year experience component required for licensing, category M1 or M2.
To watch a video outlining the program, click on the photo.
Refer to the Transport Canada website for detailed license information.
Details
Location: Dawson Creek Campus
Length: 63 weeks
Start: September and February
Fees: Current Fee Schedule
Admission Prerequisites
Provide British Columbia secondary school transcripts or equivalent indicating successful completion of Grade 11 level that includes:
- Grade 11 English, or Career and College Preparation ENGL040 (Advanced/Grade 11);
- Grade 11 Math (Pre-Calculus, or Applications, or Principles), or Career and College Preparation MATH040 (Advanced/Grade 11); and
- Grade 11 Science (Physics) or equivalent, all with 67 per cent (C+) or higher.
OR
Complete the following sections of the Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT):
- Reading Comprehension: 12.0 grade equivalent or higher
- Number Operations: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
- Problem Solving: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
- Mechanical Reasoning: 51/70 (6th Stanine) or higher
Dual Credit
- Grade 11 level completion that includes: Grade 11 English, Grade 11 Math (Foundations) and Grade 11 Science (Physics) or equivalent, all with 67 per cent (C+) or higher; and
- Suggested enrollment in a minimum of a Shop 10 class.
Important Notes
- The program is eligible for Canada Student Loans. Visit StudentAid BC to apply for financial assistance online.
- Students must provide safety equipment, including soft-soled footwear having CSA safety-toe protection, CSA safety glasses with clear lenses, and full-sleeved coveralls.
- The program is affiliated with the Industry Training Authority.
- Prospective students enrolling in the AME program should: be able to manipulate small mechanical parts; have no serious allergies to petroleum products; be able to climb tall ladders and work stands; and be capable of standing on a concrete floor for long periods of time.
- The AME program has the following partnership agreements in place:
- Open University and British Columbia Institute of Technology: Bachelor of Technology (Technology Management) Degree intended for graduates of NLC’s Aircraft Maintenance Engineering program who have gained their AME license.
- University of North Dakota: NLC graduates who have earned the Canadian Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Licence (actual certification) will receive 40 semester credit hours of block credit toward the Aviation Technology Management major at UND, subject to meeting UND’s admission prerequisites.
- Okanagan College, Vernon Campus: Okanagan students complete the final 14 weeks of practical curriculum at NLC.
- Canadian Forces: NLC AME graduates who may be considering a career in the Canadian Forces are eligible for advanced standing in enrollment/selection and career opportunities as a Canadian Forces Aviation Systems Technician. For more information see this pdf and visit the Canadian Forces website
- The information on the page is a summary of the official Program Completion Guide approved by NLC’s Education Council. Download a PDF of the Program Completion Guide.
APPLY NOW for the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering – Basic Training program
Do you need more information?
Program Chair: Hal Hobenshield
Visit the AME Alumni Site
Courses
Theory
Practical
Final Exams