CHC Helicopter to create world-class engineers

The first group of apprentices in CHC Helicopter’s scheme to develop 35 new, world-class engineers over the next three to five years arrive in Aberdeen this week.

The week-long induction to CHC’s UK North Sea operations includes hands-on experience for the apprentices working under the guidance of CHC’s highly experienced aircraft engineers.

Apprentices will also be introduced to CHC’s integrated safety management system and safety culture, and get an overview of the North Sea oil and gas players who are CHC’s customers. The apprentices come to the Granite City following eight months training in a specialist facility.

CHC launched the scheme in September 2013 and received interest from more than 400 applicants.

One of the apprentices, Rosie Clarkson, 21, said that the eight months of study with Resource Group Aviation Technical Training Solutions in Cirencester has challenged them with intense practical and theory examination.

“Now I’m through the first stage, I’m excited that I can begin to learn from CHC’s maintenance team, understand how maintenance is managed in a major helicopter operation, and learn more about the oil and gas industry of which CHC is a part,” she said.

“I’ve always dreamt of being a helicopter engineer, so to be a step closer to completing my course while working for such a prestigious helicopter operator is extremely satisfying.”

Mark Abbey, CHC regional director for West North Sea, said the scheme is expected to attract and develop some of the best helicopter engineers in the world.

“By investing in this apprenticeship programme, we are securing a sustainable pipeline of engineers that will continue to contribute to delivering safe and effective operations,” said Abbey.

“Demand for our programme has been high and the quality of candidates is exceptional. We are impressed by the progress they are making towards becoming our next generation of CHC Helicopter engineers.”

Abbey said the company is already taking applications for the second cohort of the scheme.

While in Aberdeen, the apprentices will be introduced to the CHC’s safety policies and operational procedures, including completing compulsory training on the company’s safety management system, and tour its entire operations.

From June, the group begins 18 months of on-the-job training in Aberdeen, North Denes in England, and Den Helder in The Netherlands, continuing their work towards a European Aviation Safety Agency-approved qualification, a Level 3 Aeronautical Maintenance Diploma, and a Level 3 National Vocational Qualification in Aeronautical Engineering.

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Press Release, May 02, 2014