Composite Technology

Overview

Composite technology programs prepare people to manufacture, install, and repair composite materials.

Composites are products that are made from two or more different materials. When these are combined they are stronger than the original materials. For example, carbon fibers and plastic resin can be combined and molded to make airplane fuselages or boat hulls.

Composite Technology programs include topics such as:

Composite materials
Manufacturing processes
Part and tooling design
Mold construction
Plant and personal safety

Schools

Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in composite technology. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree students can transfer to a college or university for further study.

Concentrations

In composite technology programs students may be able to specialize in:

Aircraft Maintenance
Composite Manufacturing

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

No information available.

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Aircraft Airframe
Algebra
Blueprint Reading
Boat Repair and Refinishing
CAD Design and Software
Chemistry
English Composition
Industrial Safety and First Aid
Machining
Manufacturing Systems
Materials and Processes
Physics
Trigonometry

Typical Course Work

In an associate or certificate program you may study:

Assembly of Composite Materials and Structures
Closed Molding Techniques
Composite Materials
Composite Tools and Equipment
Composite Strengths
Engineering Graphics
Industrial Safety and First Aid
Math and Physics
Molding equipment operation
Non-Destructive Testing
Part and Tooling Design
Precision Machining
Quality Control in Manufacturing
Repair of Composite Materials
Resins and Solvents
Tooling Materials

Things to Know

Some programs, especially certificate programs, will not transfer to a four-year engineering or technology program. Check with the school for transfer options.

Certification as a Composite Technician is available through the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA).