West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) marked the launch of its Aviation Maintenance Technology program with a ribbon-cutting and Federal Aviation Administration approval event Friday, Oct. 30, at the college’s Anderson Technical Building, according to the college’s announcement.
WKCTC said the program is backed by $2.3 million in Kentucky legislative funding: $900,000 received in 2022 and an additional $1.4 million in 2024. The funds supported program development, a coordinator position and specialized instructional equipment, the college said.
The college said an online pre-aviation introductory course is scheduled to begin in November 2026, and the first full program cohort is planned for spring 2027. The initial cohort can accommodate up to 15 students, with further cohorts planned every two years under current resources, according to WKCTC.
WKCTC said students can pursue certificates in General after the first semester, Powerplant after the first year and Airframe after the second year. Additional coursework may lead to an associate in applied science degree or an Airframe and Powerplant Maintenance Technician Diploma; FAA mechanic ratings require separate examinations and certification, the college said.
The college said the program will train students to inspect, service, troubleshoot and repair aircraft and engines. For information, WKCTC lists its address as 4810 Alben Barkley Drive, Paducah, and its phone number as (270) 554-9200.
