New Zealand Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Level 4)

Program Overview

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NMIT's New Zealand Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Level 4) equips students with technical skills and knowledge for a career in aviation. The two-year program emphasizes hands-on training, industry connections, and workplace readiness, preparing graduates for immediate employment as aircraft maintenance engineers, avionics technicians, or airframe and powerplant mechanics. Graduates have a strong employment record with major airlines and aviation organizations in New Zealand and abroad.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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NMIT's New Zealand Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Level 4)

equips individuals with the technical skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in the New Zealand aviation industry. This two-year full-time program emphasizes hands-on training and industry connections, preparing graduates for immediate employment.

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Key objectives:

• Develop strong technical skills in aircraft maintenance and repair.
• Gain a thorough understanding of relevant aviation regulations and procedures.
• Foster problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
• Cultivate effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Build industry connections and prepare for a smooth transition into the workforce.

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Program Description:

The program comprises two qualifications completed over two years:

• New Zealand Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Specialist Support) (General Aviation): Provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in aircraft maintenance practices.
• New Zealand Certificate in Aeronautical Engineering (Workplace Introductory Skills): Focuses on developing essential workplace skills and familiarizing students with the aviation industry environment.
This comprehensive approach ensures graduates possess both technical expertise and workplace readiness, making them highly sought-after by employers in the aviation sector.

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Outline:

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Year 1:

• Introduction to General Aviation: Explores the history, principles, and regulations governing general aviation operations.
• Aircraft Structures Preparation: Focuses on basic aircraft structures, materials, and repair techniques.
• Aircraft Fluid and Mechanical Systems: Delves into the operation and maintenance of aircraft fluid and mechanical systems.

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Year 2:

• Aircraft Structures-Maintenance Practices: Covers advanced aircraft structures maintenance practices, including damage assessment and repair techniques.
• Aircraft Systems-Maintenance Practices: Focuses on advanced aircraft systems maintenance practices and troubleshooting procedures.
• Work-Based Training: Students gain valuable real-world experience through a 240-hour work placement at an approved aviation maintenance organization.

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Assessment:

Assessment methods in the program include:

• Practical assessments: Demonstrating skills and knowledge through hands-on tasks and projects.
• Portfolio development: Compiling evidence of learning and skill development throughout the program.

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Teaching:

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Teaching methods:

• Blended learning approach: Combining theoretical instruction with practical hands-on exercises.
• Small class sizes: Ensuring personalized attention and individual support for each student.
• Experienced instructors: Industry professionals with extensive knowledge and practical experience in aviation maintenance.

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Unique teaching approaches:

• Work-based training: Providing real-world experience and industry connections through partnerships with aviation organizations.
• Use of industry-standard equipment and facilities: Ensuring students are familiar with the tools and technologies used in the field.
• Focus on safety: Promoting a strong safety culture and adherence to industry regulations.

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Careers:

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Career opportunities:

• Aircraft Maintenance Engineer: Performing maintenance, repair, and overhaul tasks on aircraft.
• Avionics Technician: specializing in the installation and maintenance of aircraft electronic systems.
• Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic: Working on aircraft structures, engines, and related systems.

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Career pathways:

• Progression to higher qualifications: Graduates can pursue further studies towards a Diploma in Aeronautical Certification or a Bachelor of Aviation Technology.
• Specialization in specific aircraft types or systems: Graduates can choose to specialize in a particular area of aircraft maintenance, such as avionics or airframes.
• Career advancement opportunities: Experienced aircraft maintenance engineers can progress to supervisory or management roles within the aviation industry.

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Other:

• NMIT is a New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (NZCAA) Part 147 Certified Maintenance Training Organization, ensuring the program meets the highest industry standards.

• The program is popular and has limited spaces, so early application is recommended.

• Graduates of the program have a strong employment record with major airlines and aviation organizations in New Zealand and abroad.