Specializations & Certifications | Aviation and Automotive | SIU

Aircraft Maintenance

The Aircraft Maintenance specialization provides students the opportunity to advance their technical knowledge and skills in flight management systems, advanced composites, advanced propulsion systems, and supply chain logistics.

Aviation Electronics (Avionics)

The Aviation Electronics (Avionics) specialization provides students the opportunity to advance their technical knowledge and skills in analog and digital circuits, digital data, flight line maintenance, and troubleshooting skills in aviation electronics.

Helicopter Maintenance

The Helicopter Maintenance specialization provides students who have completed an FAA approved airframe and/or powerplant program with the opportunity to advance technical skills in helicopter theory, maintenance and overhaul, and inspection. SIU is the only school in the nation that offers Bell Helicopter-approved training as part of the helicopter maintenance specialization. Students will learn about aerodynamics, vibration monitoring, tracking, and balancing as they gain technical skills in helicopter theory, inspection, maintenance, and overhaul.

Aviation Maintenance Management

The Aviation Maintenance Management specialization is an online degree completion program that allows professionals in the aviation and electronics industries to complete their bachelor’s degree while working full time. This program of study is suited to FAA-certified A&P mechanics and graduates of FAA Part 147 Aircraft Maintenance Technician Schools or other aviation-related associate degree programs.

The five-semester Airframe and/or Powerplant Maintenance Certificate program prepares the student to work with major airlines, commuter airlines, corporate flight departments, general aviation operations, and aircraft and engine manufacturers.

This program is certified by FAA Part 147 and meets the training requirements of the FAA Airmen Certification Standards for Aviation Maintenance Technicians. Completion of the Airframe and/or Powerplant courses allows students to be eligible to test for the FAA Mechanic's Certificate. All testing can be done on site in our certified testing center with our Designated Maintenance Examiners.

Equipment and training aids, valued at more than $10 million, are used in teaching reciprocating and jet powerplants, hydraulics, fuel systems, carburetion and lubricating systems, instruments, electrical systems, and powerplant testing in a coordinated program of classroom and laboratory work. Students will work with animated training panels, systems trainers, and computer training software representing a variety of jet aircraft. Our maintenance training fleet includes a Boeing 737-222, a Gulfstream III, and many other general aviation aircraft for hands-on training.

After completing the A&P certificate program, students can immediately seek employment or continue their studies for the bachelor's degree with a specialization.