Pride points
Pursue a B.S. in Aviation Technical Operations
The mission of the Tech-Ops program is to provide comprehensive high-quality education and training to individuals who aspire to become skilled aviation maintenance technicians and leaders in the aviation industry. We are committed to preparing our students to succeed in the competitive and ever-changing aviation industry by imparting knowledge, skills and values that align with the highest standards of the industry.
What you'll learn
Western Michigan University is a Federal Aviation Regulation—FAR—Part 147 Aviation Technical Operations school. Upon completing the program, students qualify to take the examinations for the FAA mechanics license with airframe and powerplant ratings, which are considered to be the industry standard of aviation technical knowledge. The examinations consist of written, oral and practical exams by a designated FAA examiner.
The first two years of the program are heavily focused on Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) training. This structure is intentional, as it allows students to earn their A&P certificate early and enter the workforce if they choose to do so. For those who aspire to take on leadership roles within the aviation maintenance industry, we strongly encourage continuing through to the completion of the degree. Given the competitive nature of the field, having a degree can provide a significant advantage in advancing one’s career.
Student Quote
Each lab was something that tested my knowledge and applied to future work...what we did (in class) will apply to the practical exam for our Air Frame and Power Plant certificate.
Where you'll be after graduation
Graduating with a degree from WMU's College of Aviation opens up a dynamic trajectory built on experience-driven learning and industry demand. The combination of specialized academic preparation and hands-on learning ensures that Broncos seamlessly transition from the classroom into highly impactful, meaningful careers. Many recent technical operations alumni have gone to work for companies like Delta Tech Ops, SkyWest, Duncan Aviation and many more. The sky's the limit!
What others have achieved
What others have achieved
WMU College of Aviation graduates are already hitting the ground running in their careers. Here's a look at some Broncos living their dreams.
Making the most of your learning experience
The immersive environment of Technical Operations is reinforced by the program's unique experiential learning framework, which allows students to earn academic credit and substitute their capstone course with real-world internships at major industry partners like Duncan Aviation. By blending rigorous hangar-floor labs with professional-grade industry pipelines, WMU ensures its graduates possess the practical, real-world competence required to immediately step into the commercial aviation workforce.
