CASA supports next generation of aircraft engineers

Ella Watson from Western Australia and Queensland’s Spencer Holmes and Joshua Kilgour will all receive up to $5,000 each to help them achieve their Civil Aviation Safety Regulation (CASR) Part 66 engineer licence.

CASA Chief Executive Officer and Director of Aviation Safety Pip Spence says that high quality aircraft maintenance engineers are critical for the future of a safe and vibrant aviation industry.

'All 3 recipients have demonstrated an obvious commitment to aviation safety and it’s evident that they’re in this career for the long haul,' Ms Spence says.

'I'd like to congratulate Ella, Spencer and Joshua for all the work they have done within the industry so far and wish them all the best for their future careers in aircraft maintenance engineering.

'We received almost 90 applications in this scholarship round and the standard once again exceeded the evaluation panel’s expectations.

'It was also encouraging to see such a wide range of candidates, from those working for major commercial operations through to others employed in smaller organisations across regional Australia.

'We know there’s a shortage of licensed aircraft engineers not just here, but across the globe, and this scholarship program is one way we can show support for the aviation industry now and into the future.

'This is the third year we’ve run the program and we’ll be offering it again in 2024, so I hope all aspiring aircraft maintenance engineers consider submitting an application when that round opens.'

The scholarship program focuses on applicants who have already started their structured training towards a licence outcome, or aircraft maintenance engineers who have not gone through a structured training program but are currently working in the industry gaining experience.

It also assists those who have demonstrated an interest in aviation maintenance, made progress through their own initiative, demonstrated aptitude for the role, and made a positive contribution to the safety culture of their profession or organisation.

More information about the AME scholarship program is available on the aircraft maintenance engineer scholarship page of our website.