The U.S. aviation industry faces a critical shortage of mechanics, with strong demand for new graduates. The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) recently graduated 60 maintenance students, with 54 taking their FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification test on or immediately after graduation day.

Nearly half secured jobs before graduating, reflecting a structural shift as an aging workforce nears retirement and student interest surges. Of the 54 students tested, 47 passed on the first attempt, with the remainder expected to pass soon. Boeing forecasts a need for 123,000 maintenance technicians in North America through 2044, undersnoring sustained demand.

PIA’s 2026 class of 60 is among its largest, driven by waitlists and growing awareness of aviation maintenance as a career alternative to four-year degrees. Median salaries for PIA graduates reach around $80,825 four years post-graduation, and approximately 36% of graduates start their first jobs at regional carriers.

The remaining students are expected to pass their certification exams in the coming days.

Montana businesses and workers might find opportunities in this growing sector, given the broader national shortage and rising wages.

The collective public has very high expectations when it comes to the safety of aircraft flying overhead and the Federal Aviation Administration has charged Helena College with providing quality meaningful instruction to prospective Aviation Maintenance Technicians to meet that challenge.

The mission of the Aviation Maintenance Technology program at Helena College University of Montana is to provide entry-level technicians who are trained in the fundamentals of aircraft maintenance with respect to general aviation and the light utility helicopter industry. With this training, a technician will be prepared for employment in many different occupations in the aviation industry including: Fixed Base Operations, Repair Stations, Commuter Airlines, Air Cargo, Aircraft Restoration, Flight Schools and Aerial Fire Fighting, to name a few.

Students are trained above and beyond the standards outlined in 14 CFR 147 (FAR Part 147) and the guidelines set forth in the program approved curriculum. Upon completion of 1900 hours of course work, students will be prepared to take three written exams and sit with a Designated Maintenance Examiner qualified by the FAA to be given three Oral and Practical Exams.

Upon completion of the required FAA tests, a student will be certificated by the FAA as a mechanic with either or both an airframe and powerplant rating. With additional general coursework through Helena College University of Montana students will also be awarded an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology.

Students need professional tools to gain employment upon graduation; therefore, they are required to purchase a tool set as outlined in the tool section. Students are required to purchase school-approved coveralls and red rags for use in the shops and are responsible for a cleaning fee each semester.