Certificate IV in Aeroskills (Structures) / Sheet Metal Stream
Trade-level aeroskills training and assessment in the selected stream, focusing on maintenance practices, component removal/installation, troubleshooting and compliance documentation. Aligned to the Aeroskills training package qualification requirements.
Important: Are you ultimately looking to progress to a CASA licence outcome, rather than just a Certificate IV?
Sigma offers structured licence courses that are set up and packaged with the requirements needed to support a CASA licence application, including relevant Units of Competency from the MEA Aeroskills Training Package, CASA Part 66 module exams, Sigma's CASA Form 465 training-outcome notification, and guidance for the applicant's CASA Form 540 application. Additionally, we will confer a formal Certificate IV and Diploma qualification for your selected stream as you progress. You can explore these here >
Who is this course for?
Structures technicians seeking a Certificate IV outcome to formalise trade-level aircraft structures maintenance skills.
Course Outcome / Certification
Upon successful completion of this course, candidates will receive:
* AQF Testamur
* Record of Results (RoR)
Choose how you want to complete this course
Select a pathway below. Pricing, duration, entry requirements and application details update immediately to match your selection.
Course information
Certificate IV in Aeroskills (Structures)
Sheet Metal Stream
Delivered via
RPL and Gap Assessment Pathway Self-Directed for Experienced Engineers
This pathway is designed for experienced, self-motivated aircraft maintenance engineers.
Knowledge is assessed through an individualised combination of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and targeted knowledge gap assessments, and Practical competency (performance evidence) is assessed via RPL using acceptable practical evidence, as approved and authorised by CASA, and documented in SAC's approved Maintenance Training Organisation Exposition (MTOE).
Equivalence of Standard
The RPL and Gap Training pathway does not reduce the competency standard required for the award of the qualification. All learners, regardless of delivery mode, must meet the full requirements of each unit of competency, including performance evidence, knowledge evidence and assessment conditions.
No unit of competency is granted solely on the basis of employment history or documentation without structured assessment and verification.
Delivered via
QLD Career Boost (Apprenticeship Pathway) Queensland Government-Subsidised Workplace Delivery for Eligible Apprentices and Trainees (AQF 4 and Above)
This is the employment-based apprenticeship or traineeship pathway under the Queensland Government's Career Boost Program 2025–28. It is available only to an eligible person who is no longer at school and is employed under a registered Queensland training contract in a qualification that the Department has approved Sigma Aerospace College to deliver.
Sigma's approved Certificate IV Career Boost offerings use the apprenticeship pathway. Sigma's approved Diploma offerings use the traineeship pathway. This delivery mode relates to the apprenticeship/traineeship pathway, not the Career Boost general training pathway. The general-pathway restriction concerning prior completion of a Certificate IV or higher qualification does not apply to this pathway.
Under Career Boost, an eligible individual may access either one subsidised Certificate IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma through the general training pathway, or a higher-level apprenticeship/traineeship at Certificate IV or above. An individual cannot complete two qualifications under Career Boost. Across VET in Schools SATs, Career Start, Career Boost and earlier DTET-funded apprenticeship/traineeship programs, no more than two government-funded apprenticeship/traineeship qualifications may be completed within a 10-year period.
The Queensland Government pays a training subsidy directly to Sigma for an eligible learner. A published student co-contribution normally applies unless an approved partial or full exemption is established.
Delivery is blended and workplace-based: structured online theory, scheduled trainer contact, supervised on-the-job learning, workplace assessment and planned face-to-face visits. Enrolment is conditional on Sigma confirming program entitlement, eligibility, suitability, the registered training contract, the approved delivery location and the employer's capacity to support the Training Plan.
Delivered via
Fee-for-Service (Apprenticeship Pathway) Workplace-Based, On-The-Job Delivery for Apprentices and Trainees
This pathway is designed for workplace delivery and applies to apprentices and trainees undertaking training while employed in an approved aircraft maintenance environment.
Training is delivered in accordance with a structured training plan and includes face-to-face contact, workplace-based assessment, and defined progression milestones aligned to competency outcomes.
tuition Fees
$500 on application, balance less credit on commencement
Payment Plan: 50% upfront
with the remaining 50% payable upon completion or within 6 months of the first payment, whichever comes first.
Concession: $774
Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s: $0 if eligible
Conditions apply
On Enrolment: up to $6,190, including the first $990 support fee
RPL & gap tuition prorated for approved Credit Transfer
$990 per quarter thereafter until completion
No application fee
Final total may be lower or higher depending on completion time
The tuition fee displayed is the maximum total tuition fee for this pathway and assumes that no Credit Transfer is granted. It includes the $500 application payment. After Sigma verifies your prior qualifications and applies any valid Credit Transfer, the remaining balance is confirmed on your final enrolment invoice.
In practice, the vast majority of experienced engineers entering this pathway receive Credit Transfer and therefore pay less than the published maximum. As an indicative example, a holder of the relevant Certificate IV in Aeroskills progressing to a Part 66 licence pathway will typically have the published tuition fee reduced by around one-third, subject to the units accepted for Credit Transfer. The exact reduction depends on the units accepted and cannot be confirmed until Sigma completes its assessment.
Additional charges may apply only where expressly listed in Sigma's current Fees and Refunds Procedure.
Payment: $500 on application. The final balance, after approved Credit Transfer, is payable 50% upfront, with the remaining 50% payable on completion or within 6 months of the first payment, whichever comes first.
Career Boost Co-Contribution Fee Conditions
The Queensland Government subsidises this training for eligible students. The displayed co-contribution is the learner's total mandatory student fee for standard delivery, unless an approved concession or full exemption applies.
- Fees are charged progressively at unit level, with no more than 30% requested upfront.
- View complete fee, eligibility, exemption, payment and refund conditions.
The published workplace fee is an indicative 36-month total made up of:
- the applicable RPL and gap training fee for the product, prorated for approved Credit Transfer; and
- a $990 workplace support fee per quarter while the learner remains enrolled.
There is no $500 application fee. On enrolment, the learner pays the adjusted RPL and gap training fee plus the first $990 quarterly support fee. A further $990 is payable each quarter until completion. Because the support fee continues until completion, the final total may be lower or higher than the published 36-month amount. Other charges apply only where specified in the current Fees and Refunds Procedure.
Course Duration
Study Load: 8 hours per week
2 weeks break
- The RPL & Gap training pathway has a reduced volume of learning versus full-time delivery due to the recognition of experience. Duration is only a guide – students may complete in a shorter or longer timeframe.
- Duration will be shorter if any Credit Transfer is granted.
- The displayed duration is the 48-month nominal training-contract term for the listed Certificate IV and Diploma pathways under QTIS. The registered training contract and signed Training Plan govern the actual schedule and unit sequencing.
- Progress and completion timing may be affected by workplace task access, supervision, participation, credit transfer, RPL or changes to employment or the training contract. Completion is confirmed only after all requirements are met; no earlier completion date, licensing outcome or employment outcome is guaranteed.
- View full duration and delivery conditions.
- The published fee assumes 36 months (12 quarterly support periods) and is an estimate only.
- Actual completion depends on competency progression, workplace access, participation and the agreed training plan.
- The $990 quarterly workplace support fee is payable until completion. Completing earlier or later than 36 months will reduce or increase the final total.
- Approved Credit Transfer reduces the RPL and gap training component and may shorten the pathway.
Before you Apply
- This course is designed for working aircraft maintenance engineers
- This delivery mode requires a minimum of two (2) years of aircraft maintenance experience
- Learners must be currently employed in an aircraft maintenance environment working on operating aircraft
- Learners must be able to provide acceptable evidence for the practical tasks specified in each Unit of Competency
- Do not submit an application until Sigma has completed a consultation and issued the delivery password.
- This delivery mode is the Career Boost apprenticeship/traineeship pathway for an approved AQF Certificate IV or above qualification. Sigma's Certificate IV offerings use the apprenticeship pathway; Sigma's Diploma offerings use the traineeship pathway.
- You must no longer be at school and must be currently employed as a Queensland apprentice or trainee under an active registered training contract for the approved qualification.
- You must not be enrolled in another DTET-funded qualification, even if it is on hold or deferred. Eligible foundation skills qualifications and self-funded/fee-for-service qualifications do not affect this requirement.
- You must not have already completed two government-funded apprenticeship/traineeship qualifications, including School-Based Apprenticeships or Traineeships (SATs), within the 10 years immediately before enrolment.
- A prior Certificate IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma or tertiary qualification does not, by itself, make you ineligible for this apprenticeship/traineeship pathway. The prior Certificate IV-or-higher restriction applies to the separate Career Boost general training pathway.
- An eligible person can complete no more than one qualification under Career Boost and no more than two government-funded apprenticeship/traineeship qualifications in total across SAT, Career Start, Career Boost and earlier DTET-funded program arrangements within a 10-year period. A SAT uses one of those two entitlements.
- Before enrolment, Sigma must complete and retain a Pre-Enrolment Assessment interview covering suitability, likely employment outcomes, learning support, reasonable adjustment, partial or full fee exemption status and any Queensland Subsidised Training List restrictions or exemptions.
- Sigma must complete an AISS search within 90 days before enrolment and directly confirm all previous and current qualifications, units and enrolments. You must disclose all current and previous names and all completed, partially completed or current Australian training.
- Sigma must verify your identity, age, work rights and required eligibility evidence and determine your program entitlement before enrolment.
- The employer, learner and Sigma must participate in an Employer Resource Assessment and development of the Training Plan. Enrolment cannot proceed where the workplace cannot provide the required facilities, range of work, qualified supervision and on-the-job training.
- Read the Queensland SAS Fees page, Student Handbook, Sigma Policies and course information before accepting enrolment.
- This structured course is suitable for both non-experienced and experienced engineers undertaking training in the workplace under an approved training plan
- Learners must be employed in an aircraft maintenance environment working on operating aircraft
- A formal training agreement with the employer is required, including nomination of an approved workplace supervisor
Study Units
What you will learn:
Build competence to locate, interpret and use maintenance manuals and specifications in line and base maintenance settings, meeting enterprise procedures and regulatory expectations for safe outcomes. Hands-on work covers amend industry manuals to reflect current/approved amendment status in line and the accessed information from drawings and diagrams in aircraft maintenance, using the right tools and controlled isolation practices. Theory and application link statutory regulations and/or organisational procedures relating to amending, illustrated parts catalogues, and techniques for obtaining and applying data contained to real maintenance decisions and troubleshooting logic. Focus remains on removing ambiguity—cross‑checking sources, escalating uncertainty, and documenting the data trail.
- Use document control practices to ensure the correct references are used before work starts.
- Extract procedural steps, limits and tolerances to build a correct work plan and inspection/test approach.
- Identify when engineering support or higher authority is needed due to unclear, conflicting or missing data.
- Document the references used and assumptions made, and communicate constraints and requirements to the team.
What you will learn:
Develop the capability to apply professional self‑management in maintenance workplaces across hangar, workshop, and flight-line tasks, using approved data and safe systems of work. Key tasks span interact effectively with others in the performance of maintenance and provide guidance to other team members, with disciplined sequencing and verification of each step. Knowledge areas include key components of organisational policies, effect of human factors relating to fatigue, and problem solving and change management principles to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Emphasis is on professional discipline—clear communication, reliable handovers, and decisions that protect safety and quality.
- Manage priorities and workload to maintain quality under time pressure and changing operational demands.
- Use disciplined work habits (checklists, self‑checks, interruption control) to prevent slips and lapses.
- Support a reporting culture by raising hazards and near misses with clear, factual information.
- Record work status, decisions and follow‑up actions so others can pick up tasks safely and efficiently.
What you will learn:
Build competence to identify hazards and implement effective controls across hangar, workshop, and flight-line tasks, meeting enterprise procedures and regulatory expectations for safe outcomes. Key tasks span correct interpretation of enterprise and regulatory emergency procedures and correctly interpreting WHS regulations, with disciplined sequencing and verification of each step. Theory and application link methods of risk assessment and control, correct selection and use of workplace emergency, and applicable sources of WHS requirements and procedures to real maintenance decisions and troubleshooting logic. Emphasis is on preventing harm and protecting the aircraft through disciplined risk control and clear reporting of hazards and incidents.
- Apply WHS legislation, organisational policies and site rules to the task and work area.
- Apply isolation and lock‑out/tag‑out practices where required, and verify safe conditions prior to work.
- Respond to incidents and emergencies through reporting, initial actions, and follow‑up investigations.
- Use reporting systems to support learning and prevention, not just compliance.
What you will learn:
Build competence to schedule and control maintenance tasks and resources in line and base maintenance settings, aligned to approved data and controlled risk management. Practical activities include apply human factors in planning maintenance activity, plus ensure safe and appropriate sequencing of tasks, with attention to access, protection, and damage prevention. Knowledge areas include key industry standards and organisational requirements and procedures, relationship between broader planning and organising requirements, and nature and impact of human factors affecting the to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Focus remains on controlling interfaces and non‑routine work so airworthiness risks are identified early and managed.
- Interpret work packages and approved data, then translate requirements into a practical job plan.
- Manage tooling, parts and facility availability to avoid schedule-driven errors.
- Review progress against schedule and quality targets, and adjust plans based on emerging information.
- Maintain traceable planning and execution records, and provide clear task status and handover information.
What you will learn:
Develop the capability to apply quality standards and assurance processes within an aircraft maintenance organisation, with disciplined control of hazards, tooling, and configuration. Hands-on work covers differentiate the elements that constitute the quality system and and ISO 9000 compliant documentation and specifications relating to quality, using the right tools and controlled isolation practices. Knowledge areas include relationship between the quality system and work health, reporting maintenance-related incidents and errors, and typical quality systems applied in aviation maintenance contexts to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Focus remains on preventing defects from escaping: right first time, evidence‑based acceptance, and continuous improvement.
- Identify quality requirements and acceptance criteria for the task, and confirm the correct reference standards apply.
- Collect objective evidence (measurements, inspections, test results) to demonstrate conformity to requirements.
- Identify non‑conformances and apply corrective actions or escalation pathways as required.
- Support audits and continuous improvement activities with accurate data and reporting.
What you will learn:
Build competence to produce and control aviation maintenance documentation and records across hangar, workshop, and flight-line tasks, with disciplined control of hazards, tooling, and configuration. Practical activities include organisational and regulatory procedures, plus demonstrate required levels of literacy and numeracy, with attention to access, protection, and damage prevention. Knowledge areas include quality manuals, organisational and regulatory procedures required to complete, and Defence regulations and instructions applicable to the maintenance to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Focus remains on traceability and configuration control so records reflect what was done, by whom, and to which standard.
- Apply controlled document practices (version control, amendments, approvals) across maintenance records and releases.
- Structure entries so a third party can reconstruct what was done, when, and to which standard.
- Verify records are complete and consistent with work performed and acceptance criteria before sign‑off or handover.
- Communicate documentation status and constraints during shift handover or task close‑out.
What you will learn:
Develop the capability to perform foundational workshop and on‑aircraft hand skills in line and base maintenance settings, aligned to approved data and controlled risk management. Practical activities include install aircraft hardware using tightening, plus use and store general and purpose-specific hand tools found, with attention to access, protection, and damage prevention. Theory and application link laying out simple items for manufacture using basic, work health and safety requirements and standard workshop, and types of standard aircraft hardware and methods to real maintenance decisions and troubleshooting logic. Focus remains on safe tool use, accurate measurement, and clean work that does not introduce defects or contamination.
- Prepare workpieces and surfaces for hand operations using correct PPE, guarding and safe handling.
- Carry out basic workshop operations (marking out, drilling, deburring, fastening, torqueing) without introducing damage.
- Identify rework requirements early and correct defects without creating secondary damage.
- Control tools and loose articles to prevent FOD, and maintain a clean work area.
What you will learn:
Build competence to remove and install non-pressurised aircraft structural and non-structural components within an aircraft maintenance organisation, with disciplined control of hazards, tooling, and configuration. Hands-on work covers it is essential that shoring and remove and install aircraft interior fittings, using the right tools and controlled isolation practices. Knowledge areas include location and attachment or stowage methods, relevant maintenance manuals, and structural and non-structural component methods of construction to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Focus remains on minimising error: verify before release, communicate clearly, and document what was done and why.
- Apply relevant manuals and enterprise procedures to non-pressurised aircraft structural and non-structural components, ensuring correct set-up, isolation, and compliance with local requirements.
- Select tooling and support equipment, then complete practical work on non-pressurised aircraft structural and non-structural components without introducing damage or FOD.
- Inspect and function-test non-pressurised aircraft structural and non-structural components; troubleshoot faults using location and attachment or stowage methods, relevant maintenance manuals and confirm post-maintenance.
- Record results, defects, and rectification actions, and communicate status to support certification-ready handover.
What you will learn:
Build competence to remove and install aircraft fixed wing flight control system components in workshop and on-aircraft environments, meeting enterprise procedures and regulatory expectations for safe outcomes. Practical activities include remove flight control surfaces, plus it is essential that safety precautions applicable to the fixed, with attention to access, protection, and damage prevention. Technical coverage spans connection hardware and couplings, requirements for independent inspection of work performed, and requirements for balancing of control surfaces, with emphasis on how these factors drive maintenance outcomes. Outcomes must be repeatable: correct technical results, clean handovers, and documentation suitable for certification and continuing airworthiness.
- Apply relevant manuals and enterprise procedures to aircraft fixed wing flight control system components, ensuring correct set-up, isolation, and compliance with local requirements.
- Select tooling and support equipment, then complete practical work on aircraft fixed wing flight control system components without introducing damage or FOD.
- Verify outcomes on aircraft fixed wing flight control system components through inspection, test, and logic-based faultfinding, including checks after rectification.
- Record results, defects, and rectification actions, and communicate status to support certification-ready handover.
What you will learn:
Learn to remove and install aircraft hydro-mechanical and landing gear system components within an aircraft maintenance organisation, using approved data and safe systems of work. Key tasks span observe all required work health and safety procedures and each of the following landing gear components, with disciplined sequencing and verification of each step. Theory and application link rendering systems safe, and packaging removed components, and fuel seal types and applications to real maintenance decisions and troubleshooting logic. Work is expected to align with approved data and organisational procedures, with clear reporting of defects and rectification actions.
- Interpret procedures and specifications for aircraft hydro-mechanical and landing gear system components; confirm applicability, revision status, and any required precautions before work starts.
- Select tooling and support equipment, then complete practical work on aircraft hydro-mechanical and landing gear system components without introducing damage or FOD.
- Verify outcomes on aircraft hydro-mechanical and landing gear system components through inspection, test, and logic-based faultfinding, including checks after rectification.
- Record results, defects, and rectification actions, and communicate status to support certification-ready handover.
What you will learn:
Strengthen the ability to fabricate and repair aircraft mechanical components or component parts in line and base maintenance settings, meeting enterprise procedures and regulatory expectations for safe outcomes. Key tasks span fabricate or repair at least one item from each and perform the standard techniques for each of the following repairs, with disciplined sequencing and verification of each step. Technical coverage spans component operation, fabrication and repair processes, and use of personal protective equipment, with emphasis on how these factors drive maintenance outcomes. Focus remains on minimising error: verify before release, communicate clearly, and document what was done and why.
- Use approved maintenance data (manuals, drawings, standards) for and repair aircraft mechanical components or component parts, and confirm configuration, limits, and safety controls.
- Execute maintenance actions on and repair aircraft mechanical components or component parts with disciplined sequencing, correct technique, and control of hazards.
- Assess defects and performance on and repair aircraft mechanical components or component parts using appropriate test methods, then confirm correct operation before release.
- Document work performed and test outcomes, and provide a clean technical handover for continuing airworthiness.
What you will learn:
Build competence to inspect aircraft structures across hangar, workshop, and flight-line tasks, meeting enterprise procedures and regulatory expectations for safe outcomes. Hands-on work covers glass and moulded plastics and inspect at least one aircraft component from each of the, using the right tools and controlled isolation practices. Knowledge areas include describing construction methods, describing basic constructional features, and describing NDT methods and application of the various to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Competence is demonstrated through safe work practices, correct configuration control, and records that stand up to audit.
- Interpret procedures and specifications for aircraft structures; confirm applicability, revision status, and any required precautions before work starts.
- Select tooling and support equipment, then complete practical work on aircraft structures without introducing damage or FOD.
- Inspect and function-test aircraft structures; troubleshoot faults using describing construction methods, describing basic constructional features and confirm post-maintenance serviceability against acceptance criteria.
- Document work performed and test outcomes, and provide a clean technical handover for continuing airworthiness.
What you will learn:
Strengthen the ability to maintain aircraft structure and components within an aircraft maintenance organisation, aligned to approved data and controlled risk management. Key tasks span apply structural corrosion removal/treatment techniques and apply safety precautions and quality requirements, with disciplined sequencing and verification of each step. Technical coverage spans relevant maintenance and structural repair manuals specifying corrosion, surface finishes and methods of restoration, and types of corrosion typically found in different areas, with emphasis on how these factors drive maintenance outcomes. Outcomes must be repeatable: correct technical results, clean handovers, and documentation suitable for certification and continuing airworthiness.
- Apply relevant manuals and enterprise procedures to aircraft structure and components, ensuring correct set-up, isolation, and compliance with local requirements.
- Execute maintenance actions on aircraft structure and components with disciplined sequencing, correct technique, and control of hazards.
- Verify outcomes on aircraft structure and components through inspection, test, and logic-based faultfinding, including checks after rectification.
- Record results, defects, and rectification actions, and communicate status to support certification-ready handover.
What you will learn:
Learn to remove surface coatings from aircraft or aircraft components within an aircraft maintenance organisation, with disciplined control of hazards, tooling, and configuration. Hands-on work covers removed surface coatings from aircraft or aircraft components during scheduled and select and use appropriate mechanical coating removal methods for the, using the right tools and controlled isolation practices. Theory and application link paint stripper application pumps, masking tapes and barrier materials, and dust to real maintenance decisions and troubleshooting logic. Outcomes must be repeatable: correct technical results, clean handovers, and documentation suitable for certification and continuing airworthiness.
- Use approved maintenance data (manuals, drawings, standards) for surface coatings from aircraft or aircraft components, and confirm configuration, limits, and safety controls.
- Prepare the work area and carry out hands-on tasks on surface coatings from aircraft or aircraft components, using correct tools, test equipment, and contamination.
- Assess defects and performance on surface coatings from aircraft or aircraft components using appropriate test methods, then confirm correct operation before release.
- Record results, defects, and rectification actions, and communicate status to support certification-ready handover.
What you will learn:
Gain practical skills to fabricate basic structural components for aircraft under operational maintenance conditions, with disciplined control of hazards, tooling, and configuration. Hands-on work covers fabricate basic structural components for aircraft during scheduled and unscheduled and develop component flat pattern using basic drawing tools and geometric, using the right tools and controlled isolation practices. Knowledge areas include electroplating, WHS precautions for fabrication of basic structural components, and structural corrosion and preventative measures to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Focus remains on minimising error: verify before release, communicate clearly, and document what was done and why.
- Interpret procedures and specifications for basic structural components for aircraft; confirm applicability, revision status, and any required precautions before work starts.
- Select tooling and support equipment, then complete practical work on basic structural components for aircraft without introducing damage or FOD.
- Assess defects and performance on basic structural components for aircraft using appropriate test methods, then confirm correct operation before release.
- Record results, defects, and rectification actions, and communicate status to support certification-ready handover.
What you will learn:
Develop the capability to fabricate advanced structural components for aircraft in line and base maintenance settings, meeting enterprise procedures and regulatory expectations for safe outcomes. Practical activities include identify various aircraft metals and their basic metallurgy properties, plus identify aircraft structural assembly fasteners by interpretation of markings, with attention to access, protection, and damage prevention. Theory and application link material specifications for aluminium alloys and steel alloys, design and manufacture of templates, and flat pattern development and terminology to real maintenance decisions and troubleshooting logic. Outcomes must be repeatable: correct technical results, clean handovers, and documentation suitable for certification and continuing airworthiness.
- Interpret procedures and specifications for advanced structural components for aircraft; confirm applicability, revision status, and any required precautions before work starts.
- Execute maintenance actions on advanced structural components for aircraft with disciplined sequencing, correct technique, and control of hazards.
- Verify outcomes on advanced structural components for aircraft through inspection, test, and logic-based faultfinding, including checks after rectification.
- Document work performed and test outcomes, and provide a clean technical handover for continuing airworthiness.
What you will learn:
Gain practical skills to repair and modify aircraft metal structure in workshop and on-aircraft environments, meeting enterprise procedures and regulatory expectations for safe outcomes. Practical activities include correctly support the aircraft structure by jacking, plus a range of close tolerance fasteners, with attention to access, protection, and damage prevention. Knowledge areas include aircraft repair schemes and modification data/drawings, paints and finishes, and personal protective equipment for repair or modification to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Outcomes must be repeatable: correct technical results, clean handovers, and documentation suitable for certification and continuing airworthiness.
- Use approved maintenance data (manuals, drawings, standards) for and modify aircraft metal structure, and confirm configuration, limits, and safety controls.
- Select tooling and support equipment, then complete practical work on and modify aircraft metal structure without introducing damage or FOD.
- Inspect and function-test and modify aircraft metal structure; troubleshoot faults using aircraft repair schemes and modification data/drawings, paints and finishes and confirm post-maintenance serviceability.
- Produce clear maintenance records and reports, including non-routine findings and any follow-up actions required.
What you will learn:
Build competence to perform major disassembly and reassembly on aircraft structure in line and base maintenance settings, aligned to approved data and controlled risk management. Key tasks span assembly of aircraft sub-assemblies or end items from detailed parts and identify aircraft structural assembly fasteners by interpretation of markings, with disciplined sequencing and verification of each step. Technical coverage spans matrix materials and adhesives, oil canning, and stress raisers, with emphasis on how these factors drive maintenance outcomes. Emphasis is on defensible maintenance decisions—confirming serviceability, managing risk, and leaving a traceable maintenance trail.
- Apply relevant manuals and enterprise procedures to major disassembly and reassembly on aircraft structure, ensuring correct set-up, isolation, and compliance with local requirements.
- Prepare the work area and carry out hands-on tasks on major disassembly and reassembly on aircraft structure, using correct tools, test equipment, and contamination.
- Inspect and function-test major disassembly and reassembly on aircraft structure; troubleshoot faults using matrix materials and adhesives, oil canning and confirm post-maintenance serviceability against.
- Produce clear maintenance records and reports, including non-routine findings and any follow-up actions required.
What you will learn:
Learn to participate in environmentally sustainable work practices across hangar, workshop, and flight-line tasks, with disciplined control of hazards, tooling, and configuration. Practical activities include participate in environmentally sustainable work practices, plus followed environmental policies and identified potential breaches of environmental regulations, with attention to access, protection, and damage prevention. Knowledge areas include environmental and resource efficiency policies and procedures, environmental sustainability issues relevant to organisation, and environmental issues to support faultfinding and defensible serviceability decisions. Outcomes must be repeatable: correct technical results, clean handovers, and documentation suitable for certification and continuing airworthiness.
- Use approved maintenance data (manuals, drawings, standards) for in environmentally sustainable work practices, and confirm configuration, limits, and safety controls.
- Prepare the work area and carry out hands-on tasks on in environmentally sustainable work practices, using correct tools, test equipment, and contamination control.
- Verify outcomes on in environmentally sustainable work practices through inspection, test, and logic-based faultfinding, including checks after rectification.
- Document work performed and test outcomes, and provide a clean technical handover for continuing airworthiness.
How We Train
How We Undertake Training (RPL & Gap)
Training for students in the RPL and Gap pathway is self-directed online for theory only.
Theory Training
Training for students taking the RPL & Gap training pathway is self-directed online, but supported with engaging learner resources, regular webinars and Q&A sessions, 1:1 tutoring on request, and support from our training team when required.
The following training and resources are provided for each Unit of Competency:
- Audio lecture (available as a podcast feed)^
- Sigma Digital Learner Guide / PDF Learning Materials
- Toolbox 60 webinars (students can attend fortnightly online)
- Live Q&A sessions (students can attend fortnightly online)
- Quarterly check-in
- Tutoring sessions (on request)
Note: Practical training is not offered for this delivery mode. This pathway is designed for engineers with existing experience and supporting aviation industry-standard documentation (e.g. Journal of Industrial Experience, task cards). Students are expected to provide evidence of practical competency, which is assessed via RPL in line with SAC’s Acceptable Practical Evidence Guidelines.
Where practical training is requested, this may be arranged on a fee-for-service basis for groups, either onsite at SAC facilities or offsite at an approved AMO/MRO facility.
^Audiobook rollout in-progress - not all units will include an audiobook at time of enrolment
How We Undertake Training (QLD Career Boost Apprenticeship/Traineeship Pathway)
This is a blended workplace pathway for eligible Queensland apprentices and trainees undertaking an approved AQF Certificate IV or above qualification. Training is structured through the apprentice or trainee's registered training contract and an individual Training Plan developed by Sigma Aerospace College with the learner and employer.
Training Plan, Workplace and Progress Reviews
Before the Training Plan is signed, Sigma completes an Employer Resource Assessment to confirm that the workplace can provide the facilities, equipment, range of work, qualified supervision and on-the-job training required for the qualification.
The Training Plan:
- identifies the units, sequence, delivery arrangements, responsibilities and planned timeframes
- is developed and signed by the apprentice or trainee, employer and Sigma
- is updated where agreed arrangements change
- is supported by a Training Record provided to the learner within 14 days of the Training Plan being signed
Progress through the Training Plan and Training Record is formally reviewed with the learner and employer at least every three months for the term of the training contract.
Theory Training
Theory training is delivered through Sigma's online learning environment and scheduled trainer contact. For each Unit of Competency, learners may receive:
- Sigma Digital Learner Guide / PDF learning materials
- Unit-specific audio lecture or audiobook primer where available
- Practice quizzes and guided learning activities
- Knowledge training aligned to the complete unit requirements
- Fortnightly Toolbox 60 webinars and live Q&A sessions
- Monthly one-to-one online progress check-ins
- Additional tutoring or learning support where identified through the Pre-Enrolment Assessment or subsequent reviews
Workplace Skills Development
Practical skills are developed through real aircraft maintenance work under the direction of qualified workplace personnel identified through the Employer Resource Assessment.
Employers and supervisors are supported with:
- Unit-specific workplace task guidance
- Training Record requirements
- Practical and on-the-job verification checklists
- Direct access to Sigma trainers and assessors
- Guidance on sequencing work exposure against the Training Plan
Sigma conducts face-to-face workplace visits at least every 26 weeks, and more frequently where required by the Training Plan, learner needs, workplace risk or progress. Visits may include learner and employer support, practical training, evidence review, direct observation and assessment.
Training participation is recorded at unit level, including the date, duration and location of training and learner and trainer identification. The predominant delivery mode reported to the Queensland Government is based on the training hours actually delivered.
How We Undertake Training (Workplace Delivery, Including Apprenticeships & Traineeships)
Training for students in the workplace delivery pathway is undertaken in two parts: theory and practical.
Theory Training
Theory training is conducted online and supported by structured learning resources.
For each Unit of Competency, learners:
1. Listen to an audio lecture (podcast format) to gain foundational understanding of the unit
2. Complete recommended readings, including the learner guide / supplementary materials
Fortnightly webinars are delivered covering topics common to Aeroskills outcomes, concluding with a live Q&A tutoring session.
Students are required to attend monthly one-on-one online check-ins with their instructor to discuss progress and address any learning challenges. Additional one-on-one sessions may be booked where required.
The following training and resources are provided for each Unit of Competency:
- Audio lecture (available as a podcast feed)^
- Sigma Digital Learner Guide / PDF Learning Materials
- Toolbox 60 webinars (fortnightly online, mandatory attendance at least every 8 weeks)
- Live Q&A sessions (fortnightly online)
- Monthly check-in
- Tutoring sessions (on request)
Practical Training
Practical training is conducted in the workplace by approved supervisors.
Supervisors are supported with:
- Instructor guidance
- Per-unit practical guidelines
- Competency checklists
Sigma Aerospace College also conducts workplace visits at a minimum of every 26 weeks to:
- Provide learner and employer support
- Assess and sign off Aeroskills journals/logbooks
- Conduct workplace observations where required
^Audiobook rollout in-progress - not all units will include an audiobook at time of enrolment
How We Assess
How We Undertake Assessment (RPL & Gap)
Sigma Aerospace College operates a four-stage RPL & Gap assessment process following successful application and onboarding.
Assessment Phase 1 – Gap Analysis
Once the onboarding process is complete and initial documentation has been provided, SAC undertakes an assessment of prior learning, applicable credit transfer, and any identified knowledge gaps.
At this stage, an invoice is issued for tuition fees (the course fee listed on the website, less any approved credit transfer). Once payment is received:
- The customised learning environment is unlocked
- An initial RPL report (as required by CASA) is issued
This invoice covers all tuition fees, training materials, and any applicable CASA exams.
Assessment Phase 2 – Gap Assessment (Theory) and RPL Evidence Collection (Practical)
Once the customised learning environment is unlocked in the learning management system (aXcelerate), students are presented with:
- Knowledge gap assessments for Units of Competency not granted in full during Phase 1 via RPL or credit transfer
- Practical evidence upload assessments for outstanding Units of Competency
Submitted practical evidence is assessed via RPL against Unit of Competency performance evidence requirements.
Assessment Phase 3 – Competency Conversation
Following completion of gap assessments and submission of sufficient practical evidence (as defined in the Acceptable Practical Evidence Guide), students undertake a clustered competency conversation with an instructor.
- Format: one-on-one discussion
- Duration: approximately 30–60 minutes
- Purpose: final verification of competency
Assessment Phase 4 – CASA Exams
For training products with a CASA outcome, the final stage involves preparation for and completion of invigilated CASA examinations. An administrator will contact the student at the conclusion of Phase 3 to arrange suitable exam times.
Note: Students may apply for recognition of prior learning for any existing practical experience at any time, as long as at the time of Sigma's assessment of that evidence as prior learning (i.e. when uploaded to the relevant capture in the LMS) the evidence meets the terms in the acceptable practical evidence guide, is authentic, sufficient, and meets unit requirements.
How We Undertake Assessment (QLD Career Boost Apprenticeship/Traineeship Pathway)
Sigma Aerospace College assesses each Unit of Competency against the full requirements of the national training product. Competency is not awarded on a percentage pass basis: the learner must provide sufficient, valid, authentic and current evidence covering all applicable unit requirements.
Knowledge Assessment
Knowledge may be assessed through:
- Written or online knowledge assessments
- Short-answer, multiple-choice and applied technical questions
- Structured competency conversations
- Oral questioning where appropriate
- Workplace-based scenarios used to test knowledge and decision-making
Knowledge scenarios do not replace assessment of practical skills.
Practical Assessment
Practical performance is assessed using one or more of the following:
- Direct workplace observation by a Sigma assessor
- Approved live or recorded remote observation where direct attendance is not reasonably possible and the reason and controls are documented
- Detailed practical observation checklists recording the task, conditions, equipment, date, time, performance and assessor judgement
- Workplace products and maintenance documentation assessed against a marking guide
- On-the-job verification completed for each applicable unit by the learner, a qualified person listed in the Employer Resource Assessment, and the Sigma assessor
- Work history sheets, Training Record entries and other supplementary industry evidence
Supervisor verification supports workplace evidence but does not replace Sigma's assessment. Photos alone are not accepted as observable evidence. Video or supplementary evidence must be accompanied by an assessor's documented judgement.
Each assessment instrument records the learner, unit, task instructions, assessment conditions, submission or observation date, assessor decision and required signatures. Where more than one observation is required, each observation date and time is recorded.
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning
Learners are offered credit transfer for authenticated equivalent units and may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning where they have relevant current evidence. Credit transfer and RPL are assessed at unit level. Funding and fee treatment depend on the applicable Queensland Government rules, and a qualification achieved entirely through RPL or a combination of RPL and credit transfer may not be eligible for funded delivery.
How We Undertake Assessment (Workplace Delivery, Including Apprenticeships & Traineeships)
Sigma Aerospace College undertakes assessment across theory and practical components. Students are deemed competent only when evidence demonstrates 100% coverage of each Unit of Competency.
Theory Assessment
Theory is assessed using the following methods:
- Knowledge assessments (multiple choice, short answer, matching exercises)
- Competency conversations
Practical Assessment
Practical assessment is conducted using the following methods:
- Supervisor observation checklist (covering all unit criteria), signed off by Sigma Trainer & Assessor
- Task evidence established via records in the student’s work history sheets (as contained in their Journal) or, where appropriate, equivalent Industry Evidence
- Workplace observation (where appropriate)
Note: Students may apply for recognition of prior learning for any existing practical experience at any time, as long as at the time of Sigma's assessment of that evidence as prior learning (i.e. when uploaded to the relevant capture in the LMS) the evidence meets the terms in the acceptable practical evidence guide, is authentic, sufficient, and meets unit requirements.
Entry Requirements
Age
- Minimum age 18 years at commencement of course
Education
- Australian High School Year 11 completion with a pass in English and maths; or
- Completion of a formal Language literacy and numeracy (LLN) assessment tool at ACSF Level 3
Employment and Evidence
- Candidate must be working in an aircraft maintenance environment on operating aircraft AND
- Candidate must be able to present valid evidence (as specified in the Acceptable Practical Evidence Guide) of completion of practical tasks undertaken by the candidate prior to our assessment of that evidence (see the Unit of Competency table for links to full requirements of each unit of competency >). Once provided by the candidate and authenticated as valid by SAC, the college will use this evidence as part of a portfolio of evidence to build a case for competence via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)) and Gap Training.
Experience
- Two years of aircraft maintenance experience OR
- Two years of aircraft maintenance training at a regulator-approved Maintenance training organisation
Computing
- Desktop or Laptop computer with webcam and speaker, and modern web browser, PDF viewer, and standards-compatible office suite software
- Reliable broadband internet connection
- An active email address
- Intermediate computing skills, including knowledge of how to use internet to access information.
Residency
- Students must not be on an Australian 500 class student visa, and subject to its terms.
Age
- Minimum entry age is 13 years for the approved Queensland apprenticeship or traineeship, unless a higher minimum or other restriction applies under QTIS, the registered training contract, workplace requirements or law
- For a learner under 18, parent or guardian involvement is required where applicable
Education and Schooling
- QTIS lists no formal minimum education standard for the approved Certificate IV and Diploma qualifications
- The learner must no longer be at school for this Career Boost pathway
- Career Boost is not available to school students. Government-funded School-Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship arrangements are limited to approved Certificate II or III qualifications and do not apply to Sigma's Certificate IV or Diploma offerings
- Applicants for a Diploma qualification are generally expected to be working in a supervisory role or to have significant relevant occupational experience
- Sigma will assess language, literacy, numeracy and digital capability through the Pre-Enrolment Assessment and document any required support or reasonable adjustment
Employment and Evidence
- For MEA40618, MEA40718 or MEA41322, the candidate must be employed as a Queensland apprentice under an active registered training contract for the approved Certificate IV qualification
- For MEA50118 or MEA50219, the candidate must be employed as a Queensland trainee under an active registered training contract for the approved Diploma qualification
- Candidate must be working in an aircraft maintenance environment relevant to the qualification and on operating aircraft or applicable aeronautical products
- Candidate must have employer approval for Sigma Aerospace College to act as the Supervising Registered Training Organisation
- The employer must provide adequate facilities, equipment, range of work, supervision and on-the-job training
- Candidate must have a nominated qualified workplace supervisor accepted through the Employer Resource Assessment for the duration of study
- Candidate must complete Sigma's Pre-Enrolment Assessment and provide the required identity, age, training history, fee-exemption and eligibility evidence
- Sigma must complete the required AISS searches, SRTO checks, Employer Resource Assessment and Training Plan process before funded enrolment is confirmed
Career Boost Program Entitlement
- Under Career Boost, an eligible individual may access either one subsidised Certificate IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma through the general training pathway, or a higher-level apprenticeship/traineeship at Certificate IV or above
- This delivery mode is the apprenticeship/traineeship pathway
- An individual cannot complete two qualifications under Career Boost
- In addition to the qualification entitlement, eligible individuals may access up to two subsidised skill sets in priority industries or sectors, subject to the current program rules
Apprenticeship/Traineeship Pathway Eligibility
- The learner must not be a school student
- The learner must be currently employed as a Queensland apprentice or trainee under an active registered training contract in an eligible qualification funded through Career Boost
- The learner must not be enrolled in another DTET-funded qualification, even if it is on hold or deferred. Eligible foundation skills qualifications and self-funded/fee-for-service qualifications do not affect eligibility
- The learner must not have already completed two government-funded apprenticeship/traineeship qualifications, including SATs, within the 10 years immediately before enrolment
- The two-qualification cap applies across VET in Schools SATs, Career Start, Career Boost and earlier DTET-funded program arrangements, including User Choice. A SAT uses one of the two entitlements
- A prior Certificate IV or higher qualification does not, by itself, exclude the learner from this apprenticeship/traineeship pathway; that restriction applies to the separate Career Boost general training pathway
- Any additional eligibility requirement, entry restriction or exemption on the current Queensland Subsidised Training List must be satisfied
Computing
- Desktop or laptop computer with webcam and speaker, modern web browser, PDF viewer and standards-compatible office suite software
- Reliable broadband internet connection
- An active email address
- Sufficient digital skills to use Sigma's learning system and submit assessment evidence
Residency and Work Rights
- The learner must meet the current Queensland Government citizenship, residency, visa and work-right requirements applicable to the apprenticeship or traineeship
- A learner from overseas must hold a visa permitting work in Australia and participation in the apprenticeship or traineeship
Age
- Minimum age 18 years at commencement of course
Education
- Australian High School Year 11 completion with a pass in English and maths; or
- Completion of a formal Language literacy and numeracy (LLN) assessment tool at ACSF Level 3
Employment and Evidence
- Candidate must be working in an aircraft maintenance environment on operating aircraft AND
- Candidate must have evidence of approval and support from their employer AND
- Candidate must have a nominated supervisor in that workplace for the duration of their study
Computing
- Desktop or Laptop computer with webcam and speaker, and modern web browser, PDF viewer, and standards-compatible office suite software
- Reliable broadband internet connection
- An active email address
- Intermediate computing skills, including knowledge of how to use internet to access information.
Residency
- Students must not be on an Australian 500 class student visa, and subject to its terms.
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