Information for Students

80% of our graduates work either on the mission field or in other aviation sectors. Are you our next success story?

Thank you for your interest in attending the School of Missionary Aviation Technology (SMAT). We operate in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations part 147. All instructors are fully qualified to provide instruction meeting FAA standards. The school is located at the Ionia County Airport (Y70) in Ionia, Michigan - a small town located approximately 25 miles east of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

What makes SMAT different:

  • Intimate atmosphere - we keep class sizes small to create a close, intimate atmosphere
  • Missions focus - we specialize in preparing students for missions aviation
  • Unique one-year program - we offer one of the only A&P Program you can complete in just one year
  • FAA-certified - we are certified by the FAA
  • Success rate - 80% of our graduates work on the mission field or in other aviation sectors
  • Location - our location in West Michigan offers low cost of living for our students

Our Aviation Training Programs

Aviation Maintenance (A&P School)

A one year comprehensive course in Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanics is offered to students whose interest is aircraft maintenance. The program is FAA approved and provides training and preparation for the FAA written, oral, and practical mechanics tests.

Flight School

Flight training is offered to students wishing to train for a career in missionary aviation or work at upgrading proficiency skills. Cessna aircraft are used for both basic and advanced pilot training skills. Candidates for mission evaluation can hone their flying skills by flying with instructors who understand what the mission agencies are looking for.

Graduate Internship

Graduates of our programs are given an opportunity to exercise their newly developed skills in a controlled training atmosphere. A one year internship is offered to a limited number of our students to further assist them in confidence building through real world aircraft maintenance experiences.

Summer Aviation Camp

Each year SMAT offers a unique camping opportunity to young men and women who feel God may be calling them into Missionary Aviation. It’s an opportunity for young persons ages 14-18 to experience actual hands-on flight in a camp setting with bible study, recreation, group activities and “hangar talk” with pilots. Date for this years camp is June 21-26, 2010.

For information on the Aviation Maintenance Program or Flight Training Program, contact the SMAT information office by calling 616-527-4160.