Air New Zealand’s Nelson-based regional aircraft maintenance facility and the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) have finalised an agreement that will see them work together to train aircraft engineers in the Nelson region.

Air New Zealand Regional Maintenance Limited (ANZRML) and the tertiary education provider signed a Memorandum of Understanding earlier in the year to explore the development of a pathway for school leavers wanting to enter the aircraft maintenance industry.

Today this joint project came to life with Air New Zealand and NMIT committing to a five year partnership and announcing a joint training programme for engineers in the region. Under the agreement selected students will be offered a partial scholarship by ANZRML to attend the two year NMIT certificate in aeronautical engineering programme. These candidates will then complete two years of hands on training at ANZRML before becoming fully qualified aircraft technicians.

Air New Zealand General Manager Regional Maintenance Operations Adam McMillan says ANZRML employs more than 170 people in Nelson to undertake service work on turboprop aircraft, for both Air New Zealand and other international airline customers, and today’s MOU will help to futureproof the talent pool required to fulfil growing demand.

“This partnership will ensure a long-term solution to growing skills and talent to the benefit of those pursuing careers in the aviation industry, as well as Nelson and the wider region.”

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Chief Executive Tony Gray says NMIT provides aviation engineering training to more than 200 domestic and international students.

“There’s no denying that the airline industry is rapidly growing and there are plenty of job opportunities available for skilled and trained aircraft technicians. We look forward to continuing our work with Air New Zealand and to further opening doors for those exploring aeronautical engineering careers.”

An Air New Zealand release