New schedule designed to accommodate working students
Aviation Technology, the FAA-approved aircraft maintenance program at Nashua Community College, is adding an evening option in addition to its day program to increase access for working students.
“The idea is that this new schedule is for the folks working full time,” said Professor Doug Mitchell, Aviation Technology Program Coordinator. “I’ve noticed that 1 in every 4 calls from prospective students are folks who are working full time and asking for evening classes.”
Professor Mitchell said many students already have some work experience in the aviation industry. “People interested in the program are working in the industry, some are working in other areas. Some of our students work at major airlines, and they get interested in the mechanic work.”
The evening schedule kicks off in the spring 2025 semester January 21, with classes Tuesday through Thursday evenings and every other Saturday. All core classes are available at night for the certificate and associate degree pathway in Aviation Technology. Graduates are prepared to apply for the FAA oral, written, and practical exams for the Airframe and Powerplant Technician License.
The evening program is full time, comprising the same number of hours as the day program, but in a condensed format to allow for a full-time work schedule during the day. Aviation Technology covers five semesters total, including one summer term.
“There’s definitely a big need in the industry,” said Mitchell, “And this schedule offers another a spring start option for those interested in Aviation Technology.”
NCC recently began to use space at the Nashua Airport for student training. “That is where we do all our aircraft movement, aircraft servicing, weight and balance, marshalling, taxiing, and talking to Air Traffic Control. So that’s part of the program too, learning how to work in an airport environment.”
Prospective students who come from a military or aviation industry background can also explore how to earn Credit for Prior Learning, said Mitchell. “And if someone already has their Airframe certificate and they just need their Powerplant, we can work with that too. We’re organizing the curriculum to have Powerplant senior year, so it would shorten the path for students who just need one certificate, versus needing the Airframe and Powerplant.”
Students can choose to pursue their Aviation Technology certificate or associate degree. The certificate has the core aviation classes, and the degree has the core classes as well as general education courses like English, math, and humanities.
“Right now, a third of our students are certificate only,” said Mitchell. “The degree pathway is a good idea for folks interested in more management positions. Those who are interested in the mechanic work are happy with the certificate pathway. The degree opens more options, to, for instance, become a shift supervisor someday.”
Recent graduates have gone on to work at local partners such as Delta Airlines, Equus, and Pro Star Aviation.
The new Aviation Technology evening schedule has three students enrolled already, leaving seats for a dozen more.
Learn more
Prospective students can attend the next Open House on Monday, Nov. 18 from 5-7 PM to tour the aviation lab, and meet faculty and students. Or, contact Professor Doug Mitchell at 603.578.6871 or [email protected].
Beyond Aviation Technology, NCC is preparing to launch new degrees in Air Traffic Control in Fall 2025, and Aviation Management in Spring 2025.
For non-New Hampshire residents in the area, students within a 50-mile radius of NCC qualify for in-state tuition, including residents of Lowell, Boston, and Gloucester.
