The Qantas Group Engineering Academy has announced that trainees will now have the option to study in either Brisbane or Melbourne, as both cities have been selected as Academy locations. The training facilities in these cities will be strategically located near the airports where Qantas and Jetstar have a strong engineering presence, providing a conducive environment for a blend of classroom learning and real-world experience.
Commencing from 2025, the Academy will train up to 300 engineers annually across both sites. The Academy is being developed in partnership with Aviation Australia, reflecting the Qantas Group's significant investment in recruitment and training. This commitment aims to create 8,500 highly skilled aviation jobs to support the group's growth over the next decade.
Alan Joyce, the CEO of the Qantas Group, emphasised that the Academy would enable more aspiring engineers to access the world-class training programmes for which the national carrier is renowned. Joyce highlighted the organisation's dedication to training, with approximately two-million hours of training being delivered in 2023 alone. Similar to the successful Pilot Academy, the Engineering Academy will contribute to building a talent pipeline for the Qantas Group and the broader Australian aviation industry.
The Academy has already received an overwhelming response, with nearly 1,000 individuals expressing their interest in joining. It presents an excellent opportunity for those seeking a career in aviation.
Upon completion of the programme, the Qantas Group expects to hire approximately 200 Academy graduates annually, while others may find employment in defense and other sectors of the aviation industry. All trainees will be employed by the Qantas Group, ensuring that they receive remuneration while acquiring valuable knowledge and skills.