Gas Turbine Technician

New Program!

Credential:: certificate More info on program credentials
Program length:: 30 weeks Learn more about program length
Location:: Art Smith Aero Centre More info on program location
International applicant info:: Accepted | PGWP eligible Learn more about international applicant eligibility
Faculty:: School of Transportation

Credit credentials

A credit credential includes courses with post-secondary credit applied.

These credits will be used towards your specific program and may be accepted towards a credential at SAIT or a different post-secondary institution.

The credit credentials include a bachelor's degree, applied degree, diploma, certificate and post-diploma certificate.

Bachelor Degree

SAIT has bachelor's degree programs in business, construction, and hospitality and tourism management.

Bachelor's degrees are generally four-year programs, but you have up to 10 academic years to complete your courses.

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You then have seven academic years to finish your applied degree, starting from the day you begin the first course in that program.

Diploma

At SAIT, over 40 full-time diploma programs cover a broad range of areas, from aircraft maintenance to travel and tourism.

Most diploma programs are completed in two years, though you can take up to seven academic years to complete the requirements.

Certificate

SAIT has several certificate programs in the sciences, health and trades.

These programs provide the essential skills to start a career but are shorter in length than SAIT's diploma programs - usually a year or less. However, you have up to five years to complete your program.

Post-Diploma Certificate

These programs build on skills developed through a diploma or degree program and combine classroom instruction with a workplace practicum.

They are often completed in a year or less.

Journeyperson

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Non-credit credentials

A non-credit credential comprises courses and programs designed for professional or personal development.

Because these do not have post-secondary credits attached, they cannot be used towards any of the credentials above. We also cannot guarantee an external institute will accept these courses or credentials for transfer credit.

SAIT's non-credit certificates of achievement and completion are offered through Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

Certificate of Achievement

Certificates of achievement recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 144 (required and elective) course hours.

Certificates of achievement typically develop broader, complex skill sets. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began these programs before July 1, 2022, you still have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Certificate of Completion

Certificates of completion recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 30 to a maximum of 143 course hours.

These certificates are shorter in duration than certificates of achievement and offer a focused education program. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began before July 1, 2022, you will have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Professional Certificate

Program certificates recognize completion of a program that includes the formal evaluation of performance, and that is a minimum of one year in length.

These certificates have program-specific admission requirements.

Micro-credential

A micro-credential recognizes the completion of a non-credit course that includes a formal performance evaluation and verifies you have demonstrated specific competencies.

Micro-credentials focus on the mastery of specific skills. You receive a digital, shareable badge upon completing a SAIT micro-credential (SAITMicro).

Overview

Ready to launch your career in the fast-growing aerospace and energy industries? This one-year Gas Turbine Technician certificate offers hands-on training experience that will equip you with the skills to inspect, repair and maintain gas turbine engines used in both the aviation and industrial sectors.

In this program, you will:

train in world-class hangars and labs at both SAIT's main campus and the Art Smith Aero Centre
work on both aviation and industrial turbine systems while gaining the technical and theoretical expertise of both small and large engine systems and the human factors in maintenance, regulatory airworthiness and advanced diagnostic and inspection practices
work with cutting-edge technology and learn how to troubleshoot, repair, rebuild, balance and test gas turbine engines-vital skills for maintaining the sophisticated engines that power modern aviation and energy systems.

Developed in partnership with local industry leaders, this program ensures you graduate with skills and certifications that align with industry needs.

Whether you're interested in working with airlines, power generation companies or engineering firms, this program provides you with a well-rounded education to enter high-demand roles and entrepreneurial opportunities in turbine maintenance services.

As a graduate, you'll also be prepared for employment in airline maintenance, engine repair facilities, energy providers and industrial service companies.

Those in the aviation and energy industries tend to be mechanically inclined, enjoy working with their hands and are detail-oriented.

You need:

strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills
to enjoy physically engaging work
the ability to work well under pressure
an eye for detail
to be proficient in using computers
to be committed to maintaining safe work habits.

Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Gas Turbine Technician certificate.

Careers and opportunities

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 72404, 93200.

Career planning support

Unsure which career path is for you? Here are some recommended career planning resources to help you decide your future.

You can also head to Alberta alis for lots of information about careers in Alberta, including quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a path.

Finally, you can take our online career finder quiz, which can help narrow your options based on your current skills and interests.

Take our career finder quiz

Courses

View classes by semester

Suggested schedule of study

Semester 1

Course code	Course name	Credit
INSP 233	Engne Maintenance Fundamentals	3.0
STDP 202	Engine Standard Practices and Systems	6.0
STDP 203	Component and Engine Precision Measuring	3.0
TRBN 200	Introductory Engine Concepts	3.0
Semester 1 total		15.0

Semester 2

Course code	Course name	Credit
HFAC 250	Human Factor, Airworthiness and Certification	1.5
INSP 252	Advanced Engine Concepts	3.0
INSP 261	Engine Advanced Inspection Practices	1.5
TRBN 250	Aeroderivatives	3.0
TRBN 251	Large Engine Maintenance Practices	3.0
TRBN 252	Small Engine Maintenance Practices	3.0
Semester 2 total		15.0
Program total		30

Course	Credits
In this critical course, you’ll examine the human factors in aviation maintenance as you develop your skills in engine operation, testing and certification processes. You’ll review Canadian aviation regulations related to gas turbine repair and overhaul to understand quality and airworthiness certification requirements. The course also addresses the procedures for engine shipping and storage and best practices for maintenance documentation.	1.5
In this course, you will develop your skills in engine component inspection and maintenance, including techniques for determining component serviceability. You’ll learn procedures for inspecting compressor blades and get hands-on practice performing minor compressor blade blending repairs. You’ll also examine engine oil, exhaust and fuel systems, as well as storage and shipping criteria.	3
Building on your knowledge of engine maintenance, this course focuses on more complex engine systems, including thrust reversers, engine mounts and noise suppression systems. You’ll practice non-destructive testing techniques, advanced borescope inspections and maintenance on specific engine modules. You’ll also examine advanced bearing inspection and handling procedures.	3
In this advanced course, you’ll focus on developing your diagnostic skills and conducting comprehensive engine and component inspections. You’ll perform non-destructive testing techniques and apply advanced diagnostic procedures to determine the serviceability of components.	1.5
In this course, you will explore the essential safety knowledge, technical skills and industry-standard practices required in aircraft maintenance. You’ll focus on fire safety, emergency protocols, and the handling of dangerous materials in accordance with WHMIS regulations. You’ll get hands-on practice interpreting technical documentation, using industry-standard tools and hardware, performing calculations relevant to aviation maintenance and applying basic manufacturing processes. The course concludes with an examination of the properties of metals and non-metallic materials and the basic principles of hydraulic and electrical systems.	6
A critical skill in aviation maintenance is precision measuring. In this course, you’ll explore measurement standards in aviation maintenance and how to use precision measuring instruments to perform comprehensive dimensional inspections. You’ll examine common precision measuring tools, including borescopes, and get hands-on practice performing detailed component assessments.	3
This course lays the foundation for your identification and understanding of basic engine systems, beginning with an understanding of the aerodynamics of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. You’ll describe the documentation required for working on turbine engines and the standard practices for their maintenance. You’ll also explore the function and operation of gas turbine engine components, including compressors, combustors, turbines and fuel systems, as well as factors that affect their performance.	3
Aeroderivative gas turbines, are the industrial gas turbines based on aircraft engines or a similar design. In this course, you’ll explore the systems unique to aeroderivative engines and how industrial gas turbines are utilized and what they have in common with their aviation counterparts. You’ll learn the differences in certification and maintenance requirements between industrial and aviation turbines. In addition to that, you’ll also examine the performance characteristics and maintenance requirements of aeroderivative gas turbine engines, and explore their applications in industries other than aviation, including oil and gas.	3
This course focuses on the maintenance, repair and overhaul of large gas turbine engines, such as those on transport aircraft. You’ll disassemble, inspect and reassemble turbine engine modules and perform comprehensive engine system inspections. You’ll also examine advanced gearbox and fuel system maintenance techniques.	3
This course examines the unique maintenance requirements and challenges of smaller gas turbine engines, such as those found on small commuter aircraft and helicopters. You’ll practice precision maintenance techniques, perform detailed inspections of small engine components, and examine auxiliary power units.	3

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

Explore your options!

Some courses in this program are available through Open Studies. You can complete courses via Open Studies to get a head start on your education, reduce your course load once accepted into a credentialed program, or determine which career path best suits you before you fully commit.

You may also take courses for general interest or personal and professional development.

Available Open Studies courses

Admission requirements

Domestic requirements

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

minimum of 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and
a minimum of 50% in Math 30-1 or Math 30-2, and
a minimum of 50% in one Grade 12 science course.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements outlined above with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options.

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

Upgrade

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Transfer agreements

At SAIT, we have created transfer agreements with partner institutions to allow you to earn course credits toward your SAIT program based on your previously completed credentials.

Transfer Alberta search tool

Use the Transfer Alberta search tool to see all transfer agreements between Alberta post-secondary institutions (including those with the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University and Bow Valley College.)

Search transfer agreements in Alberta

There are no formal transfer agreements currently in place for this program.

Transfer options for graduates

When you have completed this program, you may continue your education at a partner post-secondary institution. These transfer agreements include partnerships within and/or outside of Canada.

Available intakes

Spring 2026

Start dates:

May 04, 2026

Domestic students: Open: Application deadline: April 30, 2026

Costs

2025/26 Tuition and fees

The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2025.

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees is based on completing 15 credits a semester for two semesters. Following a modified schedule will impact the fees you pay per semester and may alter final costs.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2	$12,990	$1,668.60	$14,658.60
Total cost:				$14,658.60

The program total is based on the estimated amount you will pay if you enter this program during the 2025/26 academic year. The program total amount listed on your letter of admission may appear higher. This amount is your maximum tuition guarantee for the program. SAIT will not exceed this maximum, regardless of changes in tuition and fees between academic years.

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2	$25,980	$1,668.60	$27,648.60
Total cost:				$27,648.60

Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

Fees

Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)

Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside the typical 15-week program.

2024/25 fees per semester

Fees are subject to change without notice.

A breakdown of mandatory fees based on whether you are taking less than or more than nine credits per semester
SAIT fees	Less than 9 credits/semester	9 or more credits/semester
Campus athletic and recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.	$51.50	$103
Student support fee: supports services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including Career Advancement Services and Student Development and Counselling.	$53.75	$107.50
Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance your experience.	$53.75	$107.50
UPass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Additional eligibility requirements apply to obtain a UPass.	n/a	$165
Saitsa fees
Saitsa fee: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of various student services, activities, and programming. Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.	$16.23/credit	$146 maximum
Health and dental plan: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits. In most cases, your fees are quoted based on paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt-out.	n/a	$91 for health $84 for dental

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

Learn how to apply

Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the transportation.info@sait.ca domain to your safe senders list or you risk missing critical email messages.

Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal.

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $175 for international applicants.

Apply now

Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

What sets SAIT apart
An introduction to the program and area of study
Admission requirements
Future career paths
Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Contact us

School of Transportation Advising

Phone: 403.284.8471
Email: transportation.info@sait.ca

International Student Advising

Phone: 403.284.8852
Email: international@sait.ca

Fuel The Future

Important

SAIT and Lufthansa Technik Canada (LTCA) are working to build the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals. The Fuel the Future initiative is sponsoring 10 students per intake, covering tuition costs, providing tools and salary during their studies and the possibility of job placement with the organization following completion of the program. For more information on the program and the application process, visit the Fuel the Future page.

Certification type: Certificate
Availability: International Students Accepted PGWP eligible

Certification type: Diploma
Availability: International Students Accepted Not PGWP eligible

a view of the moutains and stream in between

Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.

SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.

We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.

Visit Natoysopoyiis Resource Centre

Gas Turbine Technician

On this page:

Overview