To meet the current demand for certified aviation mechanics and satisfy student learning needs, a nationwide study developed a core curriculum based on related technical knowledge and skills. Endorsed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) this 5-year study modified a number of the emerging concepts appropriate to vocational education and integrated them with proven techniques used in vocational curriculum development. The first phase of the study involved the construction of a questionnaire and the development of a system for gathering, storing, and analyzing necessary data. The second phase, or testing phase, made use of a bi-variate inversion method to determine the effectiveness of the curriculum using as criteria student performance goals, levels of instruction, and continuous feedback from students. Phase Three then resulted in the development of the common core curriculum through the efforts of 100 aviation mechanic instructors. Also resulting from this study was the revision of the Federal Air Regulations, Part 147, thus providing more specific guidelines for the certification and operation of these schools. It was recommended that the FAA establish a system to periodically survey this industry for the purpose of updating this curriculum. (JS)