Avionics Program Overview
PIA’s Aviation Electronics Technology (AET), also known as avionics, program goes beyond the scope of just identifying and replacing faulty equipment. Graduates of our avionics program have advanced component level troubleshooting skills that can save employers a significant amount of money.
Since 1980, Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics has been one of the select schools in the nation that offers a training program specifically designed for the repair and maintenance of the complex avionics systems that are utilized within an aircraft and throughout the aviation industry.
PROGRAM SUMMARY
The PIA Experience
National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) Certification
The NCATT AET certification identifies the core knowledge of an Aircraft Electronics/Avionics technician that is common across the industry. This includes the military, air carrier, air cargo, repair stations, fixed-based operators, corporate flight departments, and manufacturers. The NCATT AET Certification demonstrates the knowledge base of an advanced aerospace technician and promotes integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce.
The National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), along with their industry partners, developed the Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Standard and Certification to address the required skills within the Aircraft Electronics/Avionics career field.
Qualification for NCATT AET Exam including:
- The ASTM NCATT AET certification examination is open to all individuals regardless of career field, training, education or experience.
- Examinations are provided electronically.
- Examinations are provided in English.
The NCATT is a requirement for PIA students in the AET Program effective January 1, 2023.
Effective January 1, 2022, the ASTM F46 Committee for Aerospace Personnel elected to impose a five (5) year certification period for all ASTM NCATT certifications.
FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License
A General Radiotelephone Operator’s License (GROL) is required to adjust, maintain, or internally repair FCC licensed radiotelephone transmitters in the aviation, maritime, and international fixed public radio services. It conveys all of the operating authority of the Marine Radio Operators Permit (MP). It is a valuable addition for a future in aviation electronics.
The GROL is optional for PIA students in the AET Program to obtain in addition to the NCATT.
THE VALUE OF BOTH PROGRAMS
Aviation Maintenance Technician
Aviation Electronics Technician
For the past several decades, aviation employers have hired licensed avionics technicians to ensure the advanced electronics of the aircraft are deemed airworthy. They would additionally employ A&P certified technicians to maintain all other aspects of an aircraft. In an effort to increase efficiency, a majority of employers now actively seek out skilled technicians that are capable of doing both of these activities.
This is where PIA’s dual ticket option comes in!
PIA’s curriculum is designed to allow a graduate of one Associate of Specialized Technology (AST) Degree program to complete the other AST Degree program in an additional 12 months. You could graduate with aviation maintenance technician training and avionics technician training in less than 3 years. Graduates that have completed both programs are often the first considered for employment by most employers.
Contact PIA’s Admissions Department for details.
Recent PIA Employers
LEARN MORE ABOUT
OUR PROGRAMS
An admissions representative will contact you with more information about becoming an aviation technician.