Aviation Technology

Patrick McCormick - Instructor

Grade level 11-12. May be taken 2 times with a grade of “C” or better to advance. AM and PM sessions offered

This 2-semester program is taught at a satellite location, utilizing the University of Alaska Aviation Complex at Merrill Field. Different subjects are covered each semester.

Why take this class

-Aviation is a high demand industry in Alaska

-Pass your FAA written exam for private pilot, airplane.

-Develop “soft skills” and study habits necessary to all workplaces. 

-Airplanes are awesome!

In depth

Grade level 11-12. Aviation technology 2 (second semester) may be taken only after completion of aviation technology 1 (first semester) with a C or better, or with instructor permission. 

The Aviation Technology 2-semester program is taught at a satellite location, utilizing the University of Alaska Aviation Complex at Merrill Field.  Different subject matter is covered each semester.  

First semester will include topics such as aviation history, aircraft design, radio communications, cockpit resource management and aircraft systems.  Students will explore jobs, training pathways, and scholarship opportunities. Fundamental flight skills will be developed using aviation training devices. Additionally students will develop study skills necessary to becoming professional pilots.

Second semester students will receive ground training necessary to pass the private pilot, airplane FAA written exam.  These topics include regulations, aerodynamics, airspace, weather, weight and balance, flight planning, navigation, human factors, aircraft systems, and airport operations.

King Tech High School Advanced Aviation Academy Information 

 The Academy was established last year to provide King Tech (formerly KCC) aviation technology students the means to attain a private pilot’s license. This summer, ASD has paid for the private pilot flight training for four students using UAA’s aviation technology flight school program. We hope to select six students from this year’s aviation tech class to fly next summer. The long range goal is to prepare students for the workforce by becoming commercial pilots, living and working in Alaska. 

 Here are the required steps for a student to be considered for this year’s academy:

1. Enrolled in King Tech High School’s aviation technology class for the entire 21/22 school year. (You can be a full-time or part-time student at King Tech. Part-time--contact your high school counselor to enroll. Full-time King Tech—contact King Tech counseling.)
2. Receive an “A” or a “B” in aviation technology
3. Pass the FAA private pilot written test by the end of the school year. (Aviation technology is basically a private pilot ground school, so we work throughout the year getting ready to take this difficult test.)
4. Obtain a first-class flight physical by the end of the school year. (I will explain this procedure in class.)
5. This is a competitive process: students will submit resumes, and go through an interview process with the academy interview committee.
6. If you have further questions, you can contact the King Tech aviation tech instructor, John Fick, directly. Cell phone (907) 717-6263, or email fick_john@asdk12.org    

Credits and Certifications

.5 Physical Science

1.0 Elective

Private Pilot’s Ground School

Private Pilot’s Knowledge Exam

College credit available

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