Invest

30th November 2009

 

The Doncaster training academy of global defence giant BAE Systems has unveiled its first graduates.

 

They qualified at the official launch of the BAE Systems Aircraft Maintenance Academy, at Directions Finningley, Hangar 3 at Robin Hood Airport Doncaster Sheffield.

 

A group of 16 technicians completed their City and Guilds training and now go on to complete 12 months National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) training at an RAF bases where BAE Systems supports the RAF’s fast jet operational squadrons.

Over the next five years a further 500 apprentices are expected to train at the hangar, which is part of the airport’s enterprising business park.

 

Don Valley MP, Caroline Flint, who presented the trainees with their certificates, said: “To have a giant of a global aviation manufacturing here in Doncaster training apprentices is a tremendous vote of confidence in the facilities at Robin Hood Airport.”

 

Alex Collier, UK Industry Training Manager, BAE Systems said: “This programme is an innovative and unique solution to a challenge facing both BAE Systems and the RAF. There is a shortage of aircraft maintenance technicians nationally, and the establishment of this academy will help meet that challenge.”

 

The launch follows the recent opening of security training centre, Redline Aviation Security at the airport’s business park, which is fast becoming a hub of specialist aviation training facilities.

Mike Morton, Director of Robin Hood Airport, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for both the airport and Directions Finningley hangars 2 and 3. Also, it is another brilliant asset for young people in Doncaster, who can now benefit from the highest quality aircraft engineering training, which perhaps may have been unattainable otherwise.

The centre will continue to raise Robin Hood Airport’s profile and its vision, creating an aviation cluster which grows new talent and is second to none.”

 

Visit BAE Systems website at www.baesystems.com