Aviation Pathways
Why Aviation?
The Aviation Academy is built for students who want a head start in aerospace. Students learn the fundamentals of aviation through both classroom instruction and hands-on lab training, with pathways in Aircraft Mechanics and Air Transportation.
Aviation is a high-accountability field where safety, precision, and professionalism are essential, and it offers career opportunities in aircraft maintenance, airport operations, air cargo, avionics, and drone/UAS technology.
- 13,000+ aircraft mechanic and avionics technician job openings each year in the U.S.
- Median pay is about $78,680 for aircraft mechanics and $81,390 for avionics technicians
- 5% projected job growth through 2034
- Growing demand as global air travel and air cargo continue to increase
*Statistics sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Arizona workforce projections.
Core Classes
Suggested below is a typical progression path for the ALA Applied Technologies Graduation Diploma. The progression shown is only a suggestion and could vary depending on the academic level and credit achievement of a student.
| Grade | English | Math | History/Social Studies | Science | Elective | Elective | Elective |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9th | English I | Algebra 1 | World History | Biology | Fitness & Nutrition | Elective | Elective |
| 10th | English II | Geometry | American/Arizona History | Chemistry | Financial Literacy/Entrepreneurship | CTE | CTE |
| 11th | English III | Algebra 2 | Economics | Physics (lab sciences) | Elective | CTE | CTE |
| 12th | English IV | College Math | Civics/Government | Upper Level Science Course | Elective | CTE | CTE |
Our Facilities
The Aviation Academy feautures modern facilities and tools designed to build practical skills and technical expertise:
Flight Simulator Lab – Realistic flight training in a controlled environment
E6B Flight Computers – Essential tools for navigation and flight planning
Multi-Rotor Drones – Experience with modern drone operation and systems
Soldering Equipment – Build and repair electronic components
Multipurpose Computers – Flight sims, RC simulators, BetaFlight, and iNav software
These resources allow students to gain real-world experience and technical proficiency in aviation and unmanned aircraft systems.
