Mr. Michael Dipko

Education

• Associate of Specialized Technology, Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics

Biography

Michael Dipko is a highly skilled and experienced Airframe and Powerplant Maintenance Technician. He brings over 25 years of aircraft maintenance, inspection, and repair expertise to Saint Francis University's Aviation Education Center. His extensive training and formal education have positioned him as a reliable professional in the aviation industry.

Michael began his career in aviation maintenance in 2002 after earning an associate degree in Specialized Technology from the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. He has since built a robust portfolio of accomplishments, particularly during his tenure at ExpressJet Airlines. Over his 20-year career at ExpressJet, Michael performed line and heavy maintenance, troubleshooting, and compliance checks on various aircraft systems and components. His proficiency in interpreting technical manuals, service bulletins, and airworthiness directives has enabled him to maintain high safety and efficiency standards.

At ExpressJet Airlines, Michael's responsibilities included disassembling aircraft components, inspecting a fleet of aircraft, and repairing them according to FAA regulations. He was also instrumental in troubleshooting airframe components, powerplants, communication systems, and avionics for the company. His hands-on experience with ERJ135/145 aircraft, including leading C-check and line maintenance tasks, underscores his technical acumen and leadership capabilities.

Following his role at ExpressJet, Michael continued to expand his technical skills in various positions. He worked as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician at Corporate Flight Management, where he further honed his expertise in aircraft maintenance. Later, he transitioned to a Compressor Service Technician role at CH Reed Inc., where he serviced and repaired industrial compressors.

Michael's foundational skills were developed during his service in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Tactical Aircraft Maintenance Journeyman. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Senior Airman (E-4) after four years of dedicated service.

Michael Dipko's dedication to excellence and continuous improvement in his field demonstrates his commitment to maintaining the highest safety and performance standards in aircraft maintenance and beyond.

Oversight for Curriculum Creation

General

• Mathematics  

• Physics for Aviation

• Aircraft Drawings  

• Weight and Balance  

• Cleaning and Corrosion Control  

• Aircraft Materials, Hardware and Processes  

• Fluid Lines and Fittings  

• Fundamentals of Electricity and Electronics  

• Human Factors  

• Ground Operations and Servicing  

• Regulations, Maintenance Forms, Records and Publications  

• Inspection Concepts and Techniques  

Airframe I 

• Landing Gear Systems  
• Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems
• Aircraft Fuel Systems
• Airframe Inspections
• Metallic Structures
• Flight Controls  

Airframe II 

• Aircraft Electrical Systems

• Communications/Navigation Systems

• Aircraft Instrument Systems

• Environmental Systems

• Non-Metallic Structures

• Water and Waste Systems

• Ice and Rain Control Systems

• Rotorcraft Fundamentals

• Airframe Fire Protection Systems  

Powerplant I 

• Reciprocating Engines
• Turbine Engines
• Engine Inspection
• Propellers
• Engine Electrical Systems
• Engine Instrument Systems  

Powerplant II 

• Ignition and Starting Systems
• Engine Fire Protection Systems
• Engine Fuel and Fuel Metering Systems
• Lubrication Systems
• Reciprocating Engine Induction and Cooling Systems
• Turbine Engine Air Systems
• Engine Exhaust and Reverser Systems