ATEC News: February 27, 2025

Final Call! Register Now for the ATEC Annual Conference

Time is running out to secure your spot at the 2025 ATEC Annual Conference, presented by Piedmont Airlines and hosted by the Aviation Institute of Maintenance! Taking place March 15-19 in Norfolk, Virginia, this year’s event is packed with insightful sessions, high-impact networking, and exclusive industry updates you won’t want to miss.

The final agenda is now available, featuring keynote speakers, policy discussions, and breakout sessions tackling today’s most pressing aviation education and workforce challenges. Attendees will gain valuable insights into regulatory initiatives, workforce development collaborations, and emerging training technologies shaping the future of aviation maintenance education.

Conference highlights include:

✈ Keynote Presentations from industry and government leaders

✈ ATEC Academy, a premier professional development opportunity for new educators

✈ Legislative & Regulatory Updates impacting aviation technician training

✈ Employer-Education Collaboration Panels addressing workforce shortages and training solutions

✈ Unforgettable Networking Events, including a sunset cruise and exclusive industry receptions

Don't wait! Register by March 5 to ensure your name is included in the official conference print directory. This is the last chance to be listed among key industry professionals and maximize your networking opportunities!

Click the button below to see the final agenda (including breakouts), the list of attendees (must be logged in to see registration list), exhibitors, and sponsors, and to register.

Conference Landing Page

Call for Panelists: Share Your Expertise at the ATEC Conference

ATEC is seeking panelists to contribute to two discussions designed to tackle key challenges in aviation maintenance education and workforce development:

Teaching Tough Topics: Innovative Approaches to Challenging Concepts in A&P Education

A&P curriculum is packed with complex, high-stakes concepts that students must master to succeed in the field. This session will explore strategies for effectively teaching the more challenging topics outlined in the mechanic airman certification standards. Panelists will discuss the hurdles educators face and share creative approaches to breaking down difficult material. If you have insights into engaging instructional techniques, curriculum design, or hands-on learning methods that have improved student comprehension, we encourage you to contribute to this important discussion.

Increasing A&P Certification Rates: Driving the Next Generation of Technicians

As the demand for aviation technicians continues to rise, increasing certified graduates is more important than ever. Last year A&P schools reported a 30% increase in new certificated mechanics with certification rates climbing to 60%. This session will highlight the successful strategies driving this trend, from enhanced test preparation to industry partnerships that support student success. If you’ve implemented initiatives that have boosted certification rates or have insights on helping students cross the finish line, we invite you to share your experience.

Join the Conversation! ATEC encourages educators, administrators, and industry leaders to step up and share their expertise. Panelists will engage in an interactive exchange of ideas, offering practical solutions and best practices to benefit A&P programs nationwide. Interested in presenting? Email Crystal Maguire by March 5.

Thank You Sponsors! Opportunities Still Available

Support aviation education and gain valuable exposure by securing one of the remaining sponsorships at the 2025 ATEC Annual Conference! Only a few opportunities remain, reserve your sponsorship today.

Sponsor

Thanks to those that have already committed support!

Last Call for ATEC Academy Spring Enrollment

Don’t miss your chance to join the ATEC Academy this spring! The next cohort kicks off in March ahead of the Annual Conference. Can't make it? Enrollment is also open for the summer session in June (Tulsa), with a fall option coming soon!

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News

Join us in September for the 2025 ATEC Fly-in

In September, ATEC members will once again crisscross the nation's capital to meet with members of Congress on issues impacting aviation maintenance technician education. The event will include a roundtable discussion with FAA officials, briefings by congressional staff, and ATEC-facilitated meetings with elected lawmakers. Register here.

Showcase Your Students: The Competition @ VERTICON

The Aerospace Maintenance Council Competition is a staple at Aviation Week's MRO Americas, this year almost half of competing teams represent A&P schools. While the event is sold out, schools can still register three-person teams to compete at the inaugural Competition @ VERTICON taking place in Dallas on March 10-12. Read more.

News

Aviation Coalition Underscores Commitment to Safety

On Feb. 5, ATEC joined a coalition of aviation industry stakeholders in issuing a statement reaffirming their collective commitment to safety in the wake of recent tragic aviation accidents. The coalition expressed their shared grief over the loss of passengers and crews aboard Flight 5342, PAT 25, and Med Jets Flight 056. Read more.

Upcoming Webinar: Using IACRA to Renew Your Inspector Authorization

On March 4 at 11:30 AM EST the FAA is hosting a webinar on how to navigate the Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) system to apply for your Inspector Authorization (IA) renewal. Register here.

ATEC Joins Industry Coalition in Urging Congressional Action on Air Traffic Control Modernization

ATEC joined a coalition of aviation industry stakeholders in signing a letter to congressional leadership, urging action to enhance the safety, efficiency, and modernization of the National Airspace System. Addressed to key members of the Senate and House committees overseeing aviation policy and appropriations, the letter underscores the industry's shared commitment to ensuring a world-class air traffic control system. Read more.

Inaugural Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance Conference Coming September 2025

The inaugural Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance (AWAM) Conference will take place in Dallas, TX, from September 26-28, 2025. Opportunities for a speaking session or sponsorship are available. Early Bird Registration ends July 1, 2025. Read more.

Scholarship Opportunity for Aviation Maintenance Students

The 2025 California Capital Air Show Scholarship application is now live. This scholarship is designed to support students pursuing careers in aviation, aeronautics, or aerospace, including aviation mechanics and technicians. Applications are due by March 31, 2024. Read more .

Member Resources

Get Free Stuff: AAR Surplus Materials for Member Schools

AAR CORP., Choose Aerospace, and ATEC have initiated a collaborative effort to donate surplus materials for educational purposes. The donated inventory includes fasteners, fittings, hardware, sheet metal stock, electrical connectors, and wiring – all aimed at directly providing industry-specific items to benefit schools’ education programs. Read more.

Aviation Maintenance Technician School Map

In 2024, 73% of all aviation maintenance technician schools were ATEC members. Click on the map below to see if your school is a member and don't miss out on all the great benefits ATEC has to offer! For questions on your membership status, please email Tarra Ruttman.