Saint Francis University Celebrates First Graduating Class of Aviation Maintenance Technician Program

Photo Caption: Michael Folton of Jerome, Pa.; Joshua Mathis of Johnstown, Pa.; Mason Krouse of Jennerstown, Pa.; Liam Kerlin of Ligonier, Pa.; and Hayden Sutton of Ebensburg, Pa., members of the inaugural graduating class of Saint Francis University's Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certificate Program, celebrate earning their General, Airframe, and Powerplant certificates and qualifying to take their final Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examinations.

Saint Francis University celebrated a major milestone this past weekend, as it graduated the first class from its Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certificate Program. Five graduates successfully completed the program and earned their General, Airframe, and Powerplant certificates from Saint Francis University, qualifying them to take their final Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examinations.

Members of the inaugural graduating class include Michael Folton of Jerome, Pa.; Hayden Sutton of Ebensburg, Pa.; Joshua Mathis of Johnstown, Pa.; Liam Kerlin of Ligonier, Pa.; and Mason Krouse of Jennerstown, Pa.

Building the Future of Aviation Education

The achievement marks another significant step in the University's continued expansion as a regional leader in aviation education. Following the opening of the Saint Francis University Aviation Education Center in August 2024, the University has rapidly developed a comprehensive portfolio of aviation programs designed to meet growing workforce demands across the aviation industry.

"This milestone reflects the vision and momentum behind aviation education at Saint Francis University," said Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D., President. "These graduates are entering a field with tremendous opportunity, and we are proud to prepare skilled professionals who will help strengthen the future of the aviation industry."

Hands-On Training for High-Demand Careers

The Aviation Maintenance Technician Certificate Program provides students with hands-on technical training aligned with FAA standards and industry expectations. Graduates completing the program are prepared for careers in aircraft maintenance, repair, and inspection across the commercial, corporate, and government aviation sectors.

Saint Francis University now offers a growing range of aviation-focused programs, including the Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certificate Program, Professional Pilot Training with an aviation specialization, and an online Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies. The University recently announced the addition of a new Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Aviation Maintenance Management, a forward-looking degree designed to meet critical workforce needs and create leadership pathways for aviation maintenance professionals.

Expanding Opportunities in Aviation

Our aviation programs offer flexible, career-focused pathways that combine technical expertise, hands-on learning, and alignment with the workforce. For more information about aviation programs at Saint Francis University, visit francis.edu/aviation.