Aircraft Fabrication and Assembly - AFAB
The Aircraft Fabrication and Assembly Program provides inexperienced students with entry-level skills for the aerospace industry and experienced students with upgraded skills.
Antelope Valley College is one of the few community colleges in the United States offering composites fabrication and repair.
The program is housed in the Technology Building, which boasts industry-standard equipment with state-of-the-art laboratories. The related Airframe and Powerplant Technician Program is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Please refer to current AVC catalog for most current and up to date information regarding the program.
Upcoming Information Sessions:
No upcoming Information Sessions scheduled at this time. To be announced at a later date.
Note: Information sessions are for all Aeronautical Sciences & Technology programs offered at Antelope Valley College.
What certificates/degrees can I earn?
- Certificate as aircraft fabrication & assembly technician
What will I learn?
When you complete the certificate you will have acquired knowledge of aerodynamics, use of basic hand and power tools, safe work practices, industry standards, blueprint interpretation, aircraft fabrication techniques and use of composite materials. You will also learn ethical responsibilities of aircraft technicians and aircraft production organization.
What kinds of classes are offered?
Five basic classes (26 units) are required for the certificate making it possible to complete the certificate in two semesters. This will prepare you for an entry-level manufacturing job in the industry. These classes are:
- Basic Blueprint Interpretation (AFAB 110)
- Aircraft Structures (AFAB 115)
- Composites Fabrication & Repair (AFAB 120)
- Aerospace Workplace Issues & Ethics (AFAB 130)
- Aircraft Production Systems (AFAB 210)
What are possible jobs in this field?
Most graduates start with entry-level jobs in the industry, as a structural or composite technician. Supervisory skills or experience in other fields are also considered during the hiring process.
Who could hire me?
- 412th Maintenance Group, Edwards AFB
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- The Boeing Company
- Scaled Composites, LLC
- General Atomics
- General aviation firms
- Aircraft manufacturers
- Commercial airlines
Many local employers maintain a strong partnership with this program. Northrop Grumman actually requires local applicants without prior experience to graduate specifically from Antelope Valley College’s program in order to be considered for a position. Northrop, Lockheed and Boeing often recruit in class. Northrop has held interviews on campus for prospective employees.
What’s the average pay range for local jobs in this field?
Pay range varies greatly depending on employers and is negotiated for each applicant based on related or managerial experience.
Sounds great! How do I get more information?
Contact Antelope Valley College’s Technical Education Division at (661) 722-6300, ext. 6327.
To learn about the AFAB Rapid Training program through America's Job Center of California, you can contact their center at (661) 476-4232. This accelerated program was designed to meet local employment demands in the aerospace and manufacturing sectors. Click here for more information.