May 08, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Technology

Location(s): In Person (Art Smith Aero Centre)


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Play a crucial role in the aviation sector, ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft operations. The Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Technology program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful career in aircraft maintenance.

Work towards your Aircraft Maintenance Engineer “M” (AME) license. As a licensed AME, you’ll be entrusted with the maintenance, repair, and overall upkeep of various aircraft, such as general aviation planes, corporate jets, charter aircraft, transport-category aircraft, helicopters, and airliners.

Throughout this two-year diploma program, you’ll be immersed in a comprehensive curriculum that covers all facets of aircraft maintenance. The program is not just theoretical. Get hands-on training that prepares you for real-world challenges. Classes are at the Art Smith Aero Centre for Training and Technology at the Calgary International Airport.

In this program, you will:  

  • learn the fundamentals of aerodynamics, including the principles of flight and how various forces act on an aircraft
  • learn about the electronic systems used in aircraft, such as navigation, communication, and auto-flight systems
  • gain knowledge of engine, electrical, environment control, flight control, hydraulic, fuel, landing gear, and other mechanical systems crucial for aircraft operation
  • learn about structural materials and hardware used in aircraft manufacturing, including metals, composites, and fasteners
  • train in safety protocols and procedures to maintain a safe working environment
  • develop troubleshooting and diagnostics techniques for identifying and resolving aircraft mechanical and electrical issues
  • learn preventive maintenance inspection techniques for regular maintenance to prevent issues and ensure aircraft longevity and safety and methods for conducting thorough inspections to ensure airworthiness
  • acquire the ability to accurately read and interpret technical manuals and blueprints, including engineering drawings, maintenance manuals, and blueprints. 

The program also offers web-based courses, which offer you flexibility. Online modules are facilitated in one of the computer labs at the Art Smith Aero Centre.  

If you are passionate about aviation, have a knack for problem-solving, and aspire to be part of a team that ensures millions of people travel safely, the Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Technology program could be the first step toward a fulfilling job or career in this essential industry. 

Traits, skills and aptitudes


Aircraft maintenance engineers tend to be objective, innovative, and methodical.  

You need: 

  • confidence 
  • mechanical aptitude 
  • good eyesight and hearing 
  • hand-eye and muscle coordination 
  • fitness and agility for reaching and climbing 
  • comfort with heights 
  • organization and time-management skills 
  • attention to detail 
  • teamwork skills 
  • decision-making skills, often under pressure 
  • spatial and form awareness.

Accreditations, designations or certifications


This program is accredited by Transport Canada, subject to periodic audits. 

If you have a 95% attendance rate in classes and labs and minimum marks of 70% in each course, you will receive a Transport Canada credit of 18 months’ work experience towards the “M” category AME license.

Credential


Upon successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Technology diploma.

Program length


2 years

Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible


This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options). 

International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies. 

Not eligible for CAJG


This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant

Related careers


Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Potential careers (NOC):

  • Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors (22313)
  • Contractors and supervisors, mechanic trades (72020)
  • Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors (72404)
  • Aircraft assemblers and aircraft assembly inspectors (93200)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada


Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

  • at least 50% in Math 30-1 or 30-2, and
  • at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada


All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline


The Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Technology diploma requires 60 credits (39 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.

Suggested schedule of study


Fall intake


Year 1


Year 2


Winter intake


Progression


You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies


Books are approximately $600 for the first year and $450 for the second year.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page

Required equipment/tools

A tool list and timeline for purchasing the items will be provided at orientation. 

Any coursework packages will also be sold at orientation.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

You must purchase issued coveralls, safety glasses and a respirator. These will be discussed during orientation, where you can purchase these items using debit or credit.

The required tools, personal safety equipment, and coveralls will cost approximately $1,450; however, prices vary depending on the quality and brand of tools chosen.

Transportation program advising


For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Transportation.

Phone: 403.284.8471
Email: transportation.info@sait.ca 

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