British Airways will pioneer an Engineering Cadet Scheme in collaboration with the Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) in New York. The program will be aimed at cultivating the next generation of American aviation engineers.
This pioneering initiative, marks the first of its kind for an international airline in the United States. It follows the successful recruitment of six cadets in Chicago last month.
The program now extends to New York, offering six additional aspiring aircraft technicians tuition sponsorship. The program then permits a direct career pathway with British Airways.
New York Training Program
The comprehensive program begins with two years of intensive technical training at AIM, providing students with foundational aircraft maintenance knowledge. Successful cadets then embark on an immersive journey at British Airways’ world-class London Heathrow base.
Here they will undergo intensive onboarding training focused on critical areas including safety, quality, and operational procedures. This initial phase sets the groundwork for a three-year on-the-job training period, during which cadets will work towards obtaining their Certificate of Release to Service (CRS) privileges.
Throughout their training, participants will work alongside British Airways’ 153 skilled engineers across the United States. Upon full qualification, these new technicians will be responsible for servicing and maintaining British Airways aircraft at key US airports. These will include New York’s JFK and Newark, while also supporting partner airlines.
Stakeholder Comments
Andy Best, British Airways’ Chief Technical Officer, was pleased about the new program. “Investing in future technicians is crucial, as we’ve demonstrated through our successful Engineering apprentice scheme in the UK.”
“This program will help develop a robust pipeline of engineering talent across American bases, ensuring we continue to maintain the highest standards of aircraft safety and performance.”
Mitch Gadsby, Area Maintenance Manager, reflected on the two-year development process. “Seeing our first cohort of talented cadets is incredibly rewarding. We hope this program will provide future generations with the same fulfilling career opportunities I’ve experienced.”
Dr. Ben Clark from AIM gave further comment about the partnership. “This collaboration effectively bridges the gap between education and employment, offering our students unprecedented access to international training and career-building experiences with a global airline.”
Program Highlights
The five-year pathway is comprehensive and designed to provide exceptional opportunities for aspiring aviation engineers. It includes a complete two-year technical training program at AIM, followed by three years of hands-on experience with British Airways.
Participants will have the opportunity to work towards their CRS privileges while enjoying a competitive benefits package.
This package encompasses tuition reimbursement, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k plan with company matching, and attractive travel benefits.
Student Perspective
Faith Rono, a recent AIM Chicago graduate and new apprentice, shared her excitement: “I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of British Airways’ U.S. cadet program. The support and opportunities provided are exceptional, and I’m confident this experience will be instrumental in my professional growth.”
Eligibility Requirements
Prospective cadets must meet specific criteria to be considered for this prestigious program. Candidates are required to complete the AIM A&P program while maintaining a minimum 2.8 GPA and meeting all academic progress standards.
Moreover, they must demonstrate a genuine and strong passion for aviation engineering, showcasing not just academic excellence but also a deep commitment to the field.
Summary
This groundbreaking scheme represents British Airways’ first international collaboration with a U.S. aviation training institution, underscoring the airline’s commitment to developing a skilled American engineering team.
Applications for the New York program are open until December 20, 2024, with plans to expand to additional U.S. locations in the coming year.
