A New Era Begins for EFSC’ s Aviation Program
The Eastern Florida State College( EFSC) Aviation Maintenance Technical Certification Program celebrated a major milestone in Fall 2025 as Cohort 14 graduated from this FAA-certified Part 147 Aviation Maintenance Technician School. The program offers two Career and Technical Certificates:
• Aviation Airframe Mechanics( CTC)
• Aviation Powerplant Mechanics( CTC)
Students complete both certificates in just two years, preparing for high-demand careers in aviation maintenance.
Since its launch at Melbourne Regional Airport in 2016, the program has achieved remarkable success:
• 14 cohorts completed
• Nearly 200 graduates
• 100 % job placement rate
These accomplishments set the stage for an exciting next chapter for the program.
In August 2026, the program will relocate to the Aerospace Center for Excellence( ACE) on EFSC’ s Titusville Campus— approximately a $ 4 million transformation made possible in part by a $ 1.2 million allocation approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2022.
“ This is a significant step forward for our students and community that will provide excellent careers and spur local economic growth,” said EFSC President Dr. Jim Richey.
ACE will feature:
• A repurposed gym converted into specialized labs and classrooms
• A newly constructed 15,000-foot hangar with classrooms for handson training with cutting-edge technology
“ We are really excited to move to our new location in Titusville,” said Rick McKee, Director of Aviation Programs.“ The move provides us with the potential to expand beyond three cohorts and significantly increase the number of professionals entering the aviation industry.”
15 | EFSC COLLEGE ACCOMPLISHMENTS