ITE and ST Engineering launch state-of-the-art engine MRO training facility to strengthen aviation talent
In a significant move to bolster the aviation maintenance sector, the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) and ST Engineering have inaugurated a cutting-edge training facility dedicated to aircraft engine Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO). Named Onboarding Aviation Skills, Knowledge and Innovation Learning Laboratory (Onboarding@SKILL), this facility is the first of its kind in Singapore, developed through a collaboration between an educational institution and an industry leader.
The launch event, held at ITE College Central, was officiated by Alvin Tan, Minister of State for the Ministry of Trade and Industry & Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. The facility aims to train over 380 students and trainees annually, providing hands-on experience that closely mirrors real-world MRO operations. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) tools, robotics, additive manufacturing, and digital solutions like electronic task cards, Onboarding@SKILL offers an immersive learning environment designed to enhance precision, efficiency, and safety in MRO practices.
This specialized training lab serves as a vital bridge between academic instruction and industry requirements. It provides a structured pathway for ITE students enrolled in the new three-year Higher Nitec in Aerospace Engineering course, set to commence in 2026. Through hands-on training at Onboarding@SKILL and potential internships with ST Engineering, students will acquire relevant skills to pursue meaningful careers in aviation MRO. Additionally, current trainees undertaking the Work-Study Diploma (WSDip) in Aircraft Engine Maintenance and WSDip in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering courses will utilize the facility for targeted in-campus training, further enhancing their technical expertise.
At the launch, ITE and ST Engineering signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deepen their partnership in developing aviation talent. The MOU outlines plans for continued collaboration on curriculum development, facility enhancement, and internship opportunities. Key highlights include:
- Support for the Facility: ST Engineering will collaborate with ITE to develop simulation training packages to enhance the learning of real-world MRO processes at Onboarding@SKILL. They will also advise and support ITE staff in conducting training at the facility.
- Curriculum Development: ST Engineering will support the curriculum development for ITE’s WSDip in Aircraft Engine Maintenance, WSDip in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, and the Higher Nitec in Aerospace Engineering courses.
- Staff Capability Development: ST Engineering will provide industry attachment opportunities for ITE staff, who may also be involved in joint projects with ST Engineering.
- Internships and Career Progression: ST Engineering will offer internships for ITE students from the Higher Nitec in Aerospace Engineering course. Additionally, ITE trainees in the WSDip programs employed by ST Engineering will undergo structured on-the-job training pathways to become full-fledged technicians.
Jeffrey Lam, President of Commercial Aerospace at ST Engineering, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Developing a strong and sustainable talent pipeline is key to meeting our growing manpower needs and supporting the long-term development of Singapore’s aviation sector.”
This collaboration between ITE and ST Engineering represents a significant step towards enhancing Singapore’s position as a leading MRO hub in the Asia-Pacific region. By integrating advanced technologies and industry-aligned training, the Onboarding@SKILL facility is poised to produce a new generation of skilled aviation professionals ready to meet the evolving demands of the aerospace industry.
News – ITE and ST Engineering Launch New Engine MRO Training Facility in Singapore
