Date of Award

12-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Engineering (ME)

Department

Industrial Engineering

Committee Chair/Advisor

Dr. Kapil Chalil Madathil

Committee Member

Dr. Anand Gramopadhye

Committee Member

Dr. Sudeep Hegde

Abstract

Modernizing aviation maintenance education is essential to keep pace with emerging technologies, including electric propulsion systems and advanced avionics. As aircraft systems become more digitized and interconnected, there is a growing demand for qualified technicians who can conduct advanced diagnostics and maintenance. However, training programs have not kept pace with these technological shifts, creating a gap between workforce preparation and industry needs.

Using a qualitative research approach, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with industry professionals, educators, and regulatory personnel to identify gaps in existing training programs and Airman Certification Standards (ACS). This study addresses the disconnect between current aviation maintenance training and the skill requirements of modern aircraft systems. The findings of Phase 1 identified several barriers, including limited access to modern equipment, insufficient instructor preparation for digital systems, outdated curricula, and slow regulatory updates.

Building on these findings, Phase 2 revealed that current curricula, training practices, and certification frameworks provide limited support for integrated systems thinking, digital and data fluency, safe energy and electrostatic discharge controls, the effective use of simulations and AI-enabled diagnostics, and the implementation of safety protocols to support emerging aircraft technologies. These limitations represent systemic barriers to preparing aviation maintenance technicians for emerging aircraft technologies.

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0000-2322-4734

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