From the Runway to the Classroom

After completing his first year of teaching at Tulsa Tech, Orlando Ortiz is settling into his role as an Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) instructor, guiding the next generation of aircraft technicians with knowledge forged over decades in the field.

“The first year has been challenging,” Ortiz said. “Now that I’ve been through my fourth round of students, I have a good grasp on things. I have some lesson plans to adjust, but next year will be even better.”

Ortiz teaches adult students, focusing on aircraft structure and repair. His section of the program spans 360 hours and covers wood, composites and metallics. Though he’s no stranger to instruction—he previously taught general maintenance practices during his time in the airline industry—this classroom setting is something new.

Teaching wasn’t always part of the plan. Ortiz's love of aviation began as a kid, watching his father work for Continental Airlines. “Back in the day, you just went to work with your parents when you weren’t in school,” he said. “I spent a lot of time watching him work on aircraft and took an interest in it.”

That interest only grew. By 16, Ortiz had finished his high school classes by midday and would spend his afternoons at the Municipal Airport, watching planes take off and land. One day, Patrick Carey, a stranger at the time, noticed the teen’s daily presence and struck up a conversation. He invited Ortiz into a hangar, took him on a flight and then drove him home to meet his parents. That encounter proved to be pivotal.

“Carey told my parents I had potential. He set me in motion to start flying lessons and get my pilot’s license. That moment changed everything,” Ortiz said.

After earning his Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification, Ortiz worked on Cessnas and general aviation aircraft before joining the Army. He served 11 years, including a combat tour in Iraq. Though he began in infantry, aviation eventually found him again when he started working on aircraft at his base.

His career path led him through California, Louisiana, Florida and even Hawaii before he landed in Tulsa five years ago. Now, Ortiz is paying it forward, much like Carey once did for him.

“Carey always talked about giving back, so now I want to do the same,” he said. “He opened doors for me, and now I’m doing the same by teaching the next generation of A&P employees.”

Ortiz brings not only technical knowledge but also a strong sense of purpose to the classroom. He emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking and attention to detail. “Students need to be mechanically inclined and enjoy working with their hands. They need to know how the airplane works and be able to troubleshoot by using manuals and doing research,” he explained.

His students often express appreciation for his teaching style, something he finds deeply rewarding. “I’ve really learned a lot from the students. I enjoy working with them for three months at a time and getting to know each one,” he said.

When he’s not in the classroom, Ortiz keeps close to the skies. His hobbies include flying full-scale aircraft, piloting radio-controlled WWII replica planes, scuba diving and fishing.

He believes Tulsa Tech is an ideal place for students interested in aviation. “The industry is booming. There’s a high demand for aircraft technicians, and we have a strong program with instructors who bring a lot of experience,” Ortiz said. “By the time students get to my class, they’ve already been through Aviation Generals and Powerplant. They’re committed, and it shows.”

One year in, Ortiz has found his rhythm, combining years of practical experience with a passion for teaching. In doing so, he’s not just preparing students for a career—he’s continuing a legacy.