Cadetships on offer for future aircraft engineers

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Far North Queensland aviation operators have teamed up to offer local students a pathway to become aircraft engineers.

Jet Aviation, Skytek, and Aviation Australia have combined to offer a cadetship that includes subsidised study and guaranteed employment opportunities.

The program is an Australian first and is part of a long-term strategy to recruit Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (LAMEs).

The number of newly qualified LAMEs has been falling for several years, leading to a worldwide shortage that has a serious impact in the aviation industry.

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Aviation Australia Business Manager for north Queensland, Chris Pigott, said there had never been a better time to train as an aircraft maintenance engineer.

“The industry is growing and there is a critical shortage of aircraft engineers in the industry.

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“This inaugural cadetship program could help to safeguard the future of the industry.”

Applications are open now, with training to start in February 2023.

Students can choose to study avionics or the mechanical trade pathway. Eligible applicants will have their fees subsidised under the Queensland Government Aviation Strategy.

Mr Pigott said students will get work experience opportunities, support, and mentorship.

“Trainees who embark on the cadetship program and meet the selection criteria for an apprenticeship can expect to become a qualified LAME in four years, all while training and working locally.”

Skytek Chief Engineer, Reece Booij, says it’s interesting and varied work.

“We get to work on all sorts of aircraft, passenger aircraft to emergency medical services.

“You get a full range of work. Every job is different.

“A cool thing about aviation is going on check flights after you finish.

“You get to fly around, see the Reef, make sure all the work you did is up to speed. It’s a reward.

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Cairns Airport CEO, Richard Barker, said the program has significant potential for the Far North.

“There is an exciting opportunity here for us to position ourselves as a growing destination for aviation-related careers and training, which would offer positive effects for the broader community.

“Aviation is integral to life as we know it.

“We do not want to imagine a future without world-class travel and connectivity opportunities, not to mention the vital medical and commercial services that rely on the industry to operate.

“This is particularly relevant in regional and remote areas.”