This feature is a question-and-answer session with a Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 238th installment visiting with Jesse Martin, Director of Pellissippi State’s Aviation Technology Program which prepares individuals for aviation maintenance careers.
Describe more about what the program does. The Aviation Technology training program is designed to prepare individuals for employment in the aviation maintenance or aviation repair industry. The degree will provide individuals knowledge and skills associated with repair and installation of aviation electronics, aircraft structures, and aircraft mechanical systems.
What skills will a graduate leave with?
I. Interpret and apply written and digital technical documentation to extract relevant procedures and specifications for maintenance tasks.
II. Apply mathematical and physical principles to diagnose and resolve airworthiness discrepancies in aircraft systems.
III. Apply regulatory, safety, and operational guidelines to return aircraft to service.
IV. Demonstrate proper use of specialized equipment and appropriate tools suitable for specific maintenance tasks.
What is your background? I started in aviation in 1997 by getting my private pilot certificate. In pursuit of a career in corporate aviation as a pilot, I earned my A&P certificate along with my Commercial certificate with multi-engine and instrument ratings. After 9/11, the industry shifted and there was a pilot surplus, but I was able to continue working as an A&P technician.
I started as an aviation maintenance technician apprentice and earned my Airframe certificate through real-world experience. I went back to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to finish my bachelors degree in Aviation Technology – AMT/Flight. Through some twists and turns in life, I changed careers and taught K-12 math and science for eight years and earned licenses in the financial services world. I now have 18 years in aviation maintenance, 8 years in education and 11 years in business and finance.
Describe your students. At PSCC, our aviation technology students are dedicated, invested and diligent. Our first cohort is representing our program and our school well. We look for qualities such as integrity, great work ethic, and life-long learners who master their craft.
What do you enjoy most about the program? I enjoy problem-solving, and growing this program through high functioning practices and well founded procedures. This position has given me the opportunity to build something that will impact our community for generations to come and to create a program that I believe will be the new standard of what it is to train the next generation of aviation professionals.