May 09, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog

Avionics Technology

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


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Embark on a transformative journey with our Avionics Technology program, designed to equip you with the essential expertise to become a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer (AME) “E”.

This program lays the foundation for a career in aviation maintenance, focusing on modern aircraft’s electrical and electronic parts.

In this program, you will learn: 

  • the fundamentals of aircraft electrical systems, ensuring a solid understanding of the basics
  • the advanced electronics used in aviation, from theory to application
  • the essentials of aircraft communication systems, vital for pilot and ground interactions
  • the essentials of aircraft navigation systems, crucial for safe flying
  • the details of data systems within aircraft, a growing field as avionics become increasingly sophisticated
  • repair and maintenance techniques specific to avionics, preparing you for hands-on work in the field. 

Once you graduate, you’ll be prepared to begin work in the aviation industry and work towards becoming an “E” licensed AME.  As an avionics technician, you will maintain and repair aircraft avionics systems. The program is aligned with the current demands of the aviation industry, ensuring your skills are up to date. 

Situated at the Art Smith Aero Centre for Training and Technology at the Calgary International Airport, the program offers a unique learning environment. Benefit from modern computer labs equipped for web-based learning. All required equipment and resources are provided.

The program spans four semesters, with a break between the second and third. 

There are opportunities to connect with industry professionals through workshops and seminars. 

Upon completion, you will be ready to tackle the challenges of avionics and poised for a career managing the critical electronic systems that keep aircraft safely in the sky. 

Traits, skills and aptitudes


Avionics technicians tend to be objective, methodical and innovative. 

You need:  

  • good writing and speaking skills 
  • the ability to work alone and with others 
  • an interest in taking more training as needed 
  • math skills 
  • patience for solving problems 
  • good colour vision 
  • manual dexterity. 

You should enjoy analyzing complex data and using tools for precise tasks. You should be able to follow clear rules and enjoy being organized.

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities


You’ll have the opportunity to participate in an industry job shadowing experience during one of your breaks in classes, providing experience in the aviation industry. You’ll work with experienced technicians to gain a better understanding of what your career post-graduation will look like.

During this experience, you’ll need to meet the safety requirements of the company you will be job shadowing and may need to purchase additional personal protective equipment (PPE.)

Accreditations, designations or certifications


If you attend 95% or more of your classes and labs and achieve minimum marks of 70% in each course, you’ll receive a Transport Canada credit for 18 months’ work experience towards the “E” category AME license. 

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

Credential


Upon successful completion of this program, you will be awarded a SAIT Avionics 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)
  • Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors (72404)
  • Electrical mechanics (72422)
  • 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 Avionics Technology diploma requires 63 credits (34 courses) to complete.

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

Required courses


Suggested schedule of study


Year 1


Year 2


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 and supplies are approximately $1,000 for the first year and $100 for the second.

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

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.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Coveralls (supplied by SAIT) and safety glasses are required. Safety glasses can be purchased using a debit or credit card. 

Wait to purchase your equipment. The industry-approved PPE you’ll need will be discussed at orientation.

Required equipment/tools

A list of required tools will be provided at orientation. You’ll have to purchase these during your first few weeks of classes. 

The required tools and personal safety equipment will cost approximately $1,200. 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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