New course targets aviation engineers

Telford College is launching a new series of courses to meet an urgent need for skilled engineers in the aviation industry.

The programmes, which are due to begin in September, will run with the backing of the Aviation Skills Partnership, which has links with major airlines including Ryanair.

The courses are intended to be the forerunner for the creation of a fully-fledged Shropshire-based ‘aviation academy’ which will supply skilled staff to the world’s leading military and commercial airlines.

The Aviation Skills Partnership will be providing more details when it exhibits at Telford College’s open day on March 16, from 10.30am to 12.30pm. To register visit telfordcollege.ac.uk.

Janet Stephens, deputy principal at Telford College, said:

There is currently a massive demand for licensed engineers in the air transportation industry, which means there are some fantastic career opportunities out there.

It is estimated that, across Europe alone, around 132,000 new technicians will be needed between now and the year 2037 to work on the maintenance of aircraft.

As a result, we will be looking to recruit around 100 students for our first intake in September, offering levels two and three engineering courses which are being aligned to deliver specific skills.

In areas where other aviation academies are already up and running, such as Norwich, 100 per cent of the most recent cohort have gained real employment in the industry.

Fiona Piercy, Midlands Engine Programme Director said:

This is another successful milestone for the Aviation Skills Partnership towards filling the massive skills gaps that exist in our industries. We are pleased to be working with ASP to support the development of the Midlands Aviation Academies and provide the industry with the skilled workforce it needs to help drive economic growth through increased international trade and tourism.

ASP was established in 2013, dedicated to transforming the approach to aviation skills and creating career pathways into aviation at all ages and career stages.

Its mission is to continuously improve education and training opportunities leading to, and within the aviation sector, ensuring that the right people have the right skills, to get the right job.
It works with over 200 partners, including educators, training providers, government, employers, charities, and other institutions to increase access to the sector and, where necessary, develop the right programmes and partnerships schemes.

Earlier this week, the ASP celebrated the third full year of its Aviation Skills Manifesto, at a reception held at the House of Commons.