Sky's the Limit for First CNM Woman Aviation Maintenance Graduate

January 2011

Kacey Snow, a member of the first cohort in the CNM Aviation Maintenance program, graduated in December with her associate's degree and became the first graduate, male or female, to earn both Airframe and Powerplant certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The challenging three-part examinations included a written component, taken at Del Sol Aviation at the Albuquerque Sunport, as well as oral and hands-on practical exams administered at CNM. She is also finishing a bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, concentrating in airport management, security and maintenance management.

Originally an applied math major at the University of New Mexico, Kacey planned to go into statistics or epidemiology. She changed course after taking her first aviation ground school class as an elective at CNM, going on to earn her single engine pilot's license three years ago. When the School of Applied Technologies received FAA approval to start the Aviation Maintenance program in the Fall term of 2008, Kacey was one of the first students admitted. To earn their associate's degrees, she and her classmates learned how to maintain engines for propeller and jet aircraft as well as helicopters, and also mastered measuring, cutting, riveting and welding sheet metal and working with Kevlar, carbon fiber, fiberglass and other materials.

The next step for Kacey is a move to Everett, Washington for her new job with Aviation Technical Services, one of the country's leading aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul firms. There she will perform sheet metal and airframe modifications and repairs on aircraft including big passenger jets from Southwest Airlines, among other carriers. Her goals include continued pilot training to earn licensing for all rating, eventually leading to a career as a commercial pilot. When she flies, she'll certainly know all about how her planes are put together.