Tennessee's Aviation pathway introduces careers in aircraft maintenance, aviation operations, and aviation management. Tennessee's airports and growing aviation industry create opportunities for trained aviation professionals.
Students study aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, and aviation safety. Hands-on experience includes aircraft maintenance simulations and airport operations exposure.
Graduates pursue aircraft maintenance technician careers, aviation operations roles, or airport management. Many continue to specialized aviation technical or management programs.
Aviation at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Tennessee's aviation standards align with FAA regulations and aviation safety standards. The state emphasizes precision, safety compliance, and technical knowledge.
Students complete aviation maintenance projects and FAA knowledge assessments. Assessment includes aviation systems knowledge and maintenance procedure understanding.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Introduction to Aviation |
| Aviation I |
| Aviation II |
| Aviation Capstone |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓ASE Entry-Level Certification
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Technology
- ✓NOCTI Automotive Collision and Body Repair
- ✓EPA 609 Certification
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓Forklift Operator Certification
- ✓MSSC Certified Logistics Associate (CLA)
- ✓MSSC Certified Logistics Technician (CLT)
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Aircraft Maintenance Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $61,340 - $90,790
Adjusted for cost of living: $66,299
Aviation Mechanic
ExperiencedSalary range: $61,340 - $90,790
Adjusted for cost of living: $92,499
Chief Inspector
ExperiencedSalary range: $37,490 - $53,840
Adjusted for cost of living: $48,487
Maintenance Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $37,610 - $57,440
Adjusted for cost of living: $50,670
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern at airports, airlines, and aircraft maintenance facilities throughout Tennessee.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Tennessee CTE Programs
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Tennessee Standards Built In
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Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Tennessee standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Tennessee
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TransportationSTEM
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