New aerospace training offered

Businesses on the Isle of Man have developed a "groundbreaking" aerospace apprenticeship programme.

Previously one company would take on a trainee who would then work with them.

Now all aerospace engineering firms and manufacturers involved in the industry have teamed up to offer "more comprehensive" approach.

Those taking part in the programme will spend time with all of the businesses during the scheme. The first trainees will start later this year.

The idea is the brainchild of the Isle of Man Aerospace Cluster which is made up of the 16 aerospace manufacturers/service providers on the island including GE aviation and Ronaldsway Aircraft Company Ltd.

'Better future'

Adrian Moore, manufacturing development manager for the department of trade and industry said: "We believe we have come up with a groundbreaking way of delivering the scheme on the island."

Mr Moore said it was would offer a taste of all aspects of the industry whereas previously apprentices may have only been trained in one specialist area.

"We want to replicate what happens at Rolls Royce, BAE or Airbus, - expose them to huge expertise and different elements of the industry," he said.

"It promotes a much better understanding of all the disciplines and may give them more of an idea where their expertise may lie.

He added: "It is an investment in training on the island - it will give us better workers and apprentices better futures."

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