The event coincided with the opening of recruitment to the College’s first ever Aerospace course.
Students Emmanuel Nginamau, Angesom Okubamichael, Kishna Vinayakamoorthy and CezzarTenca Filho are all studying Level 1 Performing Engineering operations at the College’s Bromley Campus, with an interest in Aerospace.
HRH Prince Michael of Kent was the guest of honour at the event, unveiling a plaque to officially open the new facility. Many other dignitaries attended, representing industry, the local authority and an array of stakeholder groups.
Addressing guests, Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Bombardier’s Vice-President & General Manager, explained that Biggin Hill is now a strategic location for business aviation operators. He said:
“We are committed to a long-term relationship with Biggin Hill Airport to develop a world-class aviation hub serving as a catalyst for business aviation growth in the region. We are extremely proud to inaugurate our new facility during the airport’s 100-year anniversary celebration, making this an even more memorable milestone for Bombardier”
London South East Colleges is working with London Biggin Hill Airport and the London Borough of Bromley to develop an Aerospace College. This initiative will address the chronic shortage of aerospace engineers and the wider skills needs of the aviation industry.
Louise Wolsey, Executive Director of Corporate and Strategic Development at London South East Colleges said:
“We are delighted that Bombardier is demonstrating such commitment to working in partnership on the development of the new aerospace college.
“This event is a significant development for the college, extending our reach into new sectors. STEM is fast becoming the focus for future economic prosperity and this project will benefit the local community as well as the wider economy.
“We were also very pleased to hear London South East Colleges mentioned by HRH Prince Michael of Kent in his opening ceremony speech.”
Bombardier is a key employer partner for the planned Aerospace and Aviation college, alongside Chair and CEO of London Biggin Hill Airport, CEO of Gatwick Airport, CEO of London City Airport, University of Greenwich, Virgin Atlantic, Monarch Airlines, The Royal Aeronautical Society, and the RAF Training Command.
The new college will provide pathways to accreditation and professional qualifications within aviation. This will help ensure that young people in London have a wealth of opportunities to progress careers in this expanding industry.
Attending the special opening event at London Biggin Hill Airport, student Emmanuel Nginamau said:
“I enjoyed how the project manager explained how he became an aircraft engineer and how they order and plan out the maintenance on an aircraft, he gave me a good insight into the aircraft maintenance”
And student Kishna Vinayakamoorthy added:
“It was very inspirational to meet and talk engineers as this is the sector I wish to progress in. I learnt how many different industries are required in aircraft maintenance and salaries for technicians”
London South East College is recruiting students for this September, click here for more information.
The College will also be exhibiting at this year’s Biggin Hill Air Show on 19 August, where further information on all courses will be on offer.