Airframe and Power Plant Mechanic
Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanics keep aircraft safe and flight-ready by inspecting, maintaining and repairing engines, airframes and complex systems. RCC’s Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Program combines hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare students for careers in aircraft maintenance. Students work on aircraft structures, engines and avionics systems in line with FAA regulations, gaining the technical skills needed for this in-demand field.
Program Overview
The Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Program takes approximately 2.5 years to complete and combines more than 4,800 hours of on-the-job training with 440 hours of classroom instruction. The program prepares students to take the FAA certification exams and provides multiple educational and professional opportunities, including:
- Earning an RCC Certificate of Completion upon finishing the apprenticeship.
- Receiving a journeyman card from the State of Oregon.
- Option to pursue an associate degree in a related technical field.
Career & Salary Outlook
- Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic
Certified to inspect, maintain and repair aircraft frames and engines. - Avionics Technician
Works on electrical and electronic systems inside aircraft. - Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT)
General aircraft mechanic role, may work for airlines, military or private aviation companies. - Line Maintenance Technician
Performs routine aircraft checks between flights (fast-paced airport work). - Structures Technician
Specializes in repairing and replacing structural components of aircraft. - Engine Overhaul Technician
Disassembles and rebuilds aircraft engines in a shop environment.
Pay increases significantly after certification. Experienced A&P mechanics often earn $60,000-$90,000+ per year depending on the industry and location.
Application Process
The Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic Program accepts applications year-round. All applicants are ranked to determine selection order. Preference is given in the following order:
- Applicants already employed with a training agent.
- Applicants with related experience or training.
- General applicants with no related background.
Tip: The best way to enter an apprenticeship program is to get hired by an approved training agent — even in an entry-level role. Find approved training agents by going to Oregon BOLI Apprenticeship and searching for program MA #5035.
To apply, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a high school diploma or GED®.
- Provide documents showing you meet these requirements.
Applications are available in the Apprenticeship Office at RCC’s Table Rock Campus. This is also where you’ll turn in your completed application.
Location:
RCC Table Rock Campus
A Building, Room 159
7800 Pacific Ave.
White City, OR 97503
Office Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
(Closed 12 - 1 p.m. for lunch)
Estimated Program Costs
| Airframe & Power Plant Mechanic Tuition & Fees (based on In-State Fall 25/26 tuition & fee schedule) | Costs |
|---|---|
| 1st Year Tuition ($575/term X 3 terms) | $1,725.00 |
| 2nd Year Tuition ($575/term X 3 terms) | $1,725.00 |
| 3rd Year Tuition ($575/term X 1 term) | $575.00 |
| Universal Fee ($144/term X 7 terms) | $1,008.00 |
| Total | $5,033.00 |
| Books & Course Materials (estimate based on Syllabi) | |
| Textbooks (buy 1st year, used all 4 years) | $260.74 |
| Course Materials (used all 4 years) | $22.00 |
| Total | $282.74 |
