How SMAT is Different
Learn why students choose SMAT over other aviation schools.
SMAT is a private, non-affiliated school - which means we partner with and train students from a number of schools and mission agencies. You'll find that our one-year A&P program is unique, we have a uniform aircraft training fleet, and our instructors are highly experienced and well qualified.
Here are some more details about what makes SMAT different:
Intimate Atmosphere - Low Student/Instructor Ratio
Here at SMAT, we purposefully keep our class sizes small to create that close, intimate atmosphere. This environment helps to nurture closer relationships between students and instructors.
Mission-Driven Aviation Training
The reason SMAT exists is "to equip men and women with the skills necessary to serve God in mission aviation". We call that "Mission-Driven Aviation Training". Because of that focus, we can offer customized training for various mission fields and mission agencies. You'll find that everyone at SMAT is here for a similar purpose: To make an impact for God's Kingdom through aviation.
One-year A&P Program
SMAT offers a comprehensive course in Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanics that can be completed in just one year. The program is FAA approved and provides training and preparation for the FAA written, oral, and practical mechanics tests.
FAA-Certified
SMAT's curriculum is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is Licensed by the State of Michigan Department of Education.
80% Student Success Rate
The success of an aviation school is largely measured by whether or not students go on to serve in missions or in the aviation industry. We're happy to report that 80% of our graduates currently work for either a mission agency or in other aviation related fields.
Location with Low Cost of Living
Because SMAT is located in West Michigan, students get the benefit of a small-town environment that has a low cost of living. But if you like to experience the bigger cities, we're 25 minutes away from Grand Rapids and only 3 hours from Chicago.