The Flying Kangaroo’s new Engineering Academy has officially opened its doors in Brisbane as of January 20, welcoming its first intake of apprentices.
The Academy will play a key role in training the next generation of aircraft engineers through a revamped programme developed by Qantas in collaboration with Aviation Australia. The updated curriculum aims to significantly increase the number of apprentices trained annually.
The inaugural cohort of 30 apprentices will undergo a blend of classroom theory and hands-on training. Practical tasks will be simulated in a controlled environment that replicates the conditions of a working hangar. Additionally, on-the-job training will be conducted under the guidance of experienced Qantas engineers, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
To further enhance their education, QantasLink has donated its last retiring Boeing 717 aircraft (VH-YQW) to the Academy. This will allow apprentices to complete a portion of their training on a jet aircraft, providing invaluable practical experience.
The programme expects to increase its annual intake to as many as 150 apprentices in the coming years. Female participation is also rising, with women projected to make up 25% of this year’s engineering apprentices, an increase from 18% in 2023.
In 2025, the Qantas Group will have more than 250 engineering apprentices in training across Australia, marking a 45% increase on the previous year. Over the next decade, the Group plans to create 8,500 new operational roles nationwide and invest significantly in training facilities to support these efforts.
The Brisbane Engineering Academy is part of Qantas Group’s growing training footprint in Queensland, complementing the Pilot Academy in Toowoomba and existing heavy maintenance and pilot training facilities at Brisbane Airport.
