Pride. Purpose. Prestige.

PIA has developed a curriculum focused on practical hands-on training for future aviation technicians. Students have the opportunity to work on functional aircraft and equipment to develop their skills and knowledge with industry-related projects.  Programs at PIA not only meet but exceed the minimum requirements outlined by 14 CFR Part 147 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

An education at PIA prepares students to test for their FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certification or their FCC General Radiotelephone Operators License.  PIA also offers the opportunity for students to complete both programs offered, resulting in dual certification in both Aviation Maintenance Technology and Aviation Electronics Technology. 

Become an Aviation Technician

Hands-On Education, Real-world Application

The skills and techniques taught at PIA prepare students for careers both within and outside of aviation.  Working with functional equipment, future aviation technicians focus on propulsion systems, non-metallic and metallic structures, hydraulics and pneumatics, composite materials, and other elements of advanced aircraft maintenance.  Within the Aviation Electronics Technology Program, AET students learn the intricate details of the navigation and communications systems of an aircraft, working on component-level repairs to ensure the safe operation of the equipment.

With over 90 years of industry experience, PIA graduates have built a reputation of skill and professionalism as aviation technicians.  PIA has developed partnerships with organizations seeking skilled technicians and those employers continue to revisit PIA when seeking entry-level employment for their organization.

Many technicians specialize in preventive maintenance. A day in the life of an aviation technician could include working on the items below:

• Turbine Engines
• Reciprocating Engines
• Metallic Structures
• Ignitions Systems
• Hydraulics & Pneumatics
• Composite Materials
• Welding
• And more

Over the years, PIA graduates have proven their versatility by entering into positions as technicians for regional and major airlines, aircraft production and maintenance facilities, amusement parks, automated production facilities, government contractors, petrochemical manufacturing plants, telecommunication systems providers, specialty metal manufacturers, and research and development centers – just to name a few.

In 2017, all of PIA’s campuses were selected by Delta Airlines as partner schools. Understanding the impending shortage of qualified aviation technicians, Delta created a mission to help increase both the awareness of technician demand and increase the knowledge and character of technicians entering today’s workforce.

About the Hagerstown Program and Campus

Opened in 2011, PIA’s Hagerstown Branch Campus is Recognized as a “School of Excellence” in 2019 by ACCSC. The campus is Maryland’s exclusive FAA-certified Airframe & Powerplant training provider.

Working in conjunction with the Hagerstown Airport Authority and by request of the Governor’s Workforce Investment Board, PIA instituted the aviation maintenance technician school to help serve the workforce needs of both Maryland and the rest of the nation.

The facility features modern classrooms, a student resource center with a computer lab and publications library, and specialized shop areas designed to offer the optimal training environment for the instruction of aircraft propulsion systems, electricity, sheet metal, hydraulics, instruments & controls, composite materials, non-destructive testing, welding, painting and more.

The campus is located along the Hagerstown Regional Airport just south of the Mason Dixon line between Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Hagerstown Program Offering - Quick Facts

Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program
16 Month - Diploma/Certificate
4 Terms - 1900 Clock Hours

The AMT program prepares students for the FAA Airframe and Powerplant Certification Exams. Tuition, Fees, & Financial Aid

Tuition (FY 2019-2020)

• Total AMT Diploma Program (4 Terms), 1900 hours $27,000
• Tuition Per Term $6,750

*Effective January 2, 2019

Books, Tools, & Supplies

The charges for books, tools, and supplies are approximate charges and are subject to sales tax where applicable. Prices may change without notice.

Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Program $2,462

Other Fees

Registration Fee $150
FAA Airframe & Powerplant Examination Fees $1,200

Financial Aid

As you prepare for your education, it’s important to know you’re not alone in navigating your financial plan. Most students depend on a financial plan that incorporates multiple resources. Together, we’ll explore your eligibility for various financial aid programs, loans, grants and scholarships to help you figure out what’s best for your unique situation.

Here at PIA, we believe that a high-quality education should be delivered with transparency, including understanding how your investment measures with your earning potential. A stable financial plan should have no surprises, and that’s exactly what you can expect when you meet with the PIA Financial Aid Office.

Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

Approvals and Accreditation

• Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC)
• Federal Aviation Administration approval I4PT091K
• Approved by the U.S. Department of Education
• Approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC)
• Approved for the Training of Veterans