LCC offers aviation program in Mason

By Juanita Kelly-Hill
Staff Writer

The Lansing Community College Aviation Technology Program offers students a career in aviation maintenance with hands-on training and is accredited by the Federal Aviation Administration.

According to Program Director Mark Bathurst, students conduct all their training at the Jewett Airport in Mason, about 12 miles south of Lansing.

“We have about 20 airplanes for student training,” Bathurst said. “One of the airplanes is used for orientation flights to help students get a complete picture of how everything comes together when the airplane is in flight.”

The Aviation Maintenance Technology program is an 89-credit hour program that can be completed within six semesters (or two years) and offers day and evening classes.

“The program teaches students everything they need to know about aircraft,” Bathurst explained. “The construction of the airplane, the instruments, the controls, the engines (both propeller and jet) and all other components are covered in great detail as required by the FAA.”

“There are five aircraft maintenance programs in the state of Michigan. By far we are the least expensive in the state, and with additional core classes, our graduates can earn two associate’s degrees in addition to the FAA certificates we award.”

According to Bathurst, there are only two simple requirements to enroll in the program: a reading placement test; and an aptitude for working with one’s hands while troubleshooting mechanical devices to figure out how things work.

Currently, there are 86 students enrolled in the program, with a maximum of 100 students allowed per year.

The program also has a partnership with Delta Airlines. The partnership includes donation of used or broken parts and materials for training, access to Delta’s online training programs and frequent visits from Delta aircraft mechanics to ensure LCC’s program meets the same standards and requirements that Delta maintains.  

LCC graduates also have preferential hiring opportunities with Delta and its regional airline partners. 

For more information regarding the Aviation Maintenance Program at LCC, contact Program Director Mark Bathurst at bathursm@lcc.edu.