Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology is excited to participate in the 2025 Aerospace Maintenance Council (AMC) Competition at MRO Americas, taking place April 8–10 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia.
Hosted by the Aerospace Maintenance Council, this flagship event highlights the critical role of aviation maintenance technicians. The competition not only celebrates their expertise but also raises global awareness about the knowledge and skill required to ensure the safety and airworthiness of aircraft worldwide.
A key supporter of Spartan College’s participation is SkyWest Airlines! The SkyWest Aviation Technician Pathway is designed to prepare students for potential careers in aviation maintenance through hands-on training, mentorship from experienced mechanics, and guidance toward FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification. The pathway provides students with the tools they need to prepare for a career in aviation. Participants also benefit from enhanced seniority, exclusive operational insights, and a priority interview upon successful completion of their Spartan program.
This year, Spartan’s competing team hails from the Denver area campus and is being led by Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) instructor Mark Fajardo. As the team’s coach, Mark brings a wealth of experience and passion to the role.
We sat down with him to discuss his journey in aviation maintenance, key milestones in his career, and his advice for anyone considering training for this hands-on, essential field.
What inspired you to pursue a career in aviation maintenance?
In high school, I worked in a full-service automotive shop while dreaming of earning my pilot's license. My passion for aviation sparked at six years old when a plane landed near my family farm, and my stepfather, stepping out of the aircraft, invited me to go flying. That moment defined my career path. Though I received offers from automotive trade schools, aviation called to me, leading me to combine my love for mechanics and flying.
Share some of your key milestones or highlights from your time as an AMT:
After graduating high school, I attended Colorado Aero Tech and became a certified A&P mechanic. Over the years, my real-world aviation experience has enhanced my ability to mentor students, with their success stories serving as my greatest achievements.
Tell us about your transition from technician to instructor:
Staying active in general aviation allows me to provide students with real-world insights. One of my proudest moments was hearing from a former student who credited my instruction for their professional success—proving the impact of teaching on shaping careers.
What would you say are the core skills essential for training in aviation maintenance today?
What do you enjoy most about teaching, and advice for future technicians?
I love shaping the future of aviation technicians. My advice:
Share one of your favorite Spartan student success stories:
A Spartan graduate sought my help in preparing for his exams. Over a month and a half, we worked together to prepare and he passed all tests and became a certified FAA A&P mechanic. When he credited his success to me, I reminded him it was his perseverance and attitude that made it happen—I was just the catalyst.
What is the most rewarding part of being an instructor?
Seeing students succeed and knowing I played a small role in sparking their curiosity is my greatest reward.
*Spartan College does not guarantee employment or third party certifications.
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