Etihad Engineering welcomed a group of 15 students from the UAE’s Future Scientists initiative for a comprehensive tour of its 500,000sqm state-of-the-art engineering facilities, located in Abu Dhabi. Etihad Engineering, one of the world’s leading Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) service providers, and the largest in the Middle East, provided the students with a first-hand experience of aircraft maintenance services.
The Future Scientists initiative is a joint venture between Airbus and Al-Bayt Mitwahid and provides students with the opportunity to discover the aerospace industry over a three-year period. Throughout the programme, students will attend workshops, industrial sites tours, lectures and events both internationally and in the region.
Abdul Khaliq Saeed, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Engineering, said: “This is a remarkable initiative for UAE students with a passion for aerospace, and it is with great pride that we welcome them to Etihad’s extensive engineering facility. The aerospace industry is one of the most interesting and growing sectors to work in, and we are pleased to support the UAE’s ambitions as a global aerospace hub with initiatives such as these, as well as our own extensive engineer training programmes.”
Mikail Houari, President, Airbus Africa and the Middle East added: “The UAE is home to some of the biggest airlines and fleets in the world. The nation has become a major player for MRO services and engineering and it is fantastic to see some of the brightest and most talented students discover the capabilities hosted in the UAE. We are proud to work closely with our stakeholders to support the development and education of a new generation of leaders who will help drive future growth in this industry.”
The programme targets Emirati high school graduates with an interest in pursuing a career in the aerospace sector. By the end of the three-year period, students will have gained an in-depth insight into the aviation industry and will receive certificates of participation. The guidance from local industry partners, such as Etihad Engineering, will support the students in the continuation of their educational journey and their future career.
Over the past two years, the students were also hosted by Airbus at its facilities in Hamburg and Toulouse. The Future Scientists programme continues this year and the students will relate their international experience to the UAE’s world-class facilities.
