Training & Certification
Joramco and Amideast Launch Aviation Training Program in Jordan
Joramco partners with Amideast to train 60 Jordanian youth in aviation maintenance skills with guaranteed employment.
DAE Unit Joramco Launches Aviation Training Programme in Partnership with Amideast: Addressing Global Workforce Shortages and Empowering Jordanian Youth
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd.’s engineering division, Joramco, has launched a strategic aviation training programme in partnership with the U.S.-based nonprofit Amideast. The initiative, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on July 10, 2025, aims to equip 60 Jordanian youth aged 18–30 with vital English language, digital, and interpersonal skills. Backed by Boeing and implemented in collaboration with Jordan’s Ministry of Youth, this programme represents a significant step in addressing both regional unemployment and the global shortage of aviation maintenance technicians.
This partnership aligns with broader industry trends and economic needs. As the aviation sector continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) personnel. The Joramco-Amideast initiative not only creates a sustainable talent pipeline for Jordan’s aviation sector but also presents a replicable model for workforce development across the Middle East and North Africa region.
Background: Joramco and Amideast
Joramco’s Role in Global Aviation
Joramco, headquartered in Amman at Queen Alia International Airport, serves as the engineering arm of DAE. Originally established in 1963, the company has grown into a leading MRO provider with certifications from EASA, FAA, and CARC. Since DAE acquired a majority stake in 2016, Joramco has expanded its capabilities, now operating five hangars with the capacity to service up to 22 aircraft simultaneously.
Under the leadership of CEO Fraser Currie, Joramco has reported consistent revenue growth, with a 26% increase in the first half of 2023 alone. The company services global carriers such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Air Arabia, contributing approximately $120 million annually to Jordan’s GDP.
This growth trajectory aligns with DAE’s broader goal of capturing a significant share of the $700.8 billion global MRO market. As part of this strategy, Joramco is actively investing in workforce development to meet the increasing demand for skilled technicians.
Amideast’s Educational Mission
Founded in 1951, Amideast is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization focused on strengthening educational and cultural ties between the United States and the Middle-East and North Africa. Operating in over 20 countries, Amideast delivers programs in English language training, professional development, and scholarship facilitation.
In Jordan, Amideast has made significant strides in youth empowerment through its “Careers in Aviation” initiative. Since its launch in 2024, the program has graduated 54 students, 61% of whom were women. Many of these graduates have secured internships and full-time positions within the aviation sector.
The current partnership with Joramco marks the third edition of this program and represents a strategic expansion into technical training for aircraft maintenance roles, a crucial need in the industry.
The Careers in Aviation Program
Training Components and Curriculum
The 2025 edition of the Careers in Aviation program includes a comprehensive curriculum divided into three core areas: English language proficiency, digital literacy, and soft skills development. Participants will undergo 240 hours of English training focused on aviation terminology and technical documentation, ensuring they meet industry communication standards.
In addition, 120 hours will be dedicated to digital skills, including training on aircraft diagnostic software and data analytics tools commonly used in MRO operations. Soft skills modules will cover teamwork, safety protocols, and crisis management, key competencies identified by leading aerospace companies.
This curriculum is designed in collaboration with Joramco’s technical team to ensure alignment with real-world industry requirements, bridging the gap between academic training and operational readiness.
“This collaboration isn’t charity, it’s competitive necessity. By 2028, our expansion to 22 hangar bays will require 400 new technicians.”, Fraser Currie, CEO of Joramco
Partnership Structure and Employment Guarantees
Joramco’s involvement extends beyond curriculum development. The company will provide senior engineers to lead weekly workshops and facilitate hands-on training using a dedicated Boeing 737NG aircraft. Training will adhere to EASA Part-147 standards, covering areas such as composite repair, avionics, and landing gear maintenance.
Importantly, the MoU includes a commitment from Joramco to hire successful graduates into its maintenance divisions. This employment guarantee is a first in Jordan’s aviation training landscape and offers a direct pathway into the workforce for young participants.
With Jordan’s youth unemployment rate exceeding 22%, this initiative provides a timely solution by creating high-skill, high-demand job opportunities, while also addressing Joramco’s need to fill over 200 technical roles annually.
Industry Context: Global MRO and Workforce Challenges
Shortage of Skilled Technicians
The global aviation industry is facing a significant shortage of maintenance technicians. According to Oliver Wyman, the sector will experience a 27% shortfall, equivalent to 48,000 technicians, by 2027. This is due to an aging workforce, limited training capacity, and a lack of interest among younger generations.
In the Middle East, the situation is even more pressing. MRO demand in the region is growing at a rate of 4.1% annually, driven by fleet expansions from major carriers such as Emirates and Qatar Airways. This growth outpaces the global average and puts additional pressure on local training and recruitment efforts.
By investing in local talent through structured training programs, companies like Joramco can reduce reliance on expatriate labor and build a more sustainable workforce pipeline.
Operational and Economic Impact
Maintenance delays already account for 12% of flight cancellations worldwide, costing airlines billions annually. The shortage of certified technicians has also driven up wages significantly, with some roles now commanding a $19/hour premium.
These challenges underscore the importance of initiatives like the Careers in Aviation program. By localizing training and employment, the program helps stabilize operational costs while enhancing service reliability.
Furthermore, the program supports Jordan’s broader economic goals by contributing to GDP growth and reducing unemployment through high-value job creation.
Strategic and Societal Impact in Jordan
Positioning Jordan as an MRO Hub
Jordan’s government views Joramco as a strategic asset in its efforts to establish the country as a regional MRO hub. The company’s expansion plans, which include new facilities for widebody aircraft maintenance, are supported by government land allocations and infrastructure investments.
By ensuring a steady supply of trained technicians, the partnership with Amideast enhances Jordan’s competitiveness in the global MRO market. It also supports the country’s Vision 2035, which aims to secure a 5% share of the regional MRO market by 2030.
With an estimated need for 1,200 additional technicians by the end of the decade, programs like this are essential for meeting future labor demands.
Empowering Youth and Promoting Inclusion
One of the program’s standout features is its focus on inclusivity. The 2024 cohort achieved a 61% female participation rate, significantly above global averages for technical aviation roles. This was achieved through targeted outreach and support for women in underserved regions.
Graduates have reported substantial improvements in career prospects and income levels. For example, one participant transitioned from a retail job to an avionics trainee position at Joramco, resulting in a 70% salary increase.
These outcomes demonstrate the program’s potential to drive social mobility and gender equity in the aviation sector.
Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Aviation Workforce
The Joramco-Amideast aviation training programme offers a scalable and effective model for workforce development. By combining technical training with guaranteed employment, it addresses both industry labor shortages and youth unemployment in Jordan.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, partnerships like this will be critical in ensuring operational resilience and economic sustainability. Through targeted investments in human capital, Jordan is positioning itself as a leader in aviation MRO services and a model for other emerging economies.
FAQ
What is the goal of the Joramco-Amideast aviation training programme?
The programme aims to train 60 Jordanian youth in English, digital, and soft skills, preparing them for technical roles in aviation maintenance.
Who supports and implements the programme?
The programme is supported by Boeing and implemented in cooperation with Jordan’s Ministry of Youth.
What guarantees are offered to participants?
Graduates who successfully complete the programme are guaranteed employment opportunities at Joramco.
Sources
Photo Credit: Zawya
Training & Certification
SCTCC Launches FAA-Certified Aircraft Maintenance Technician Program
St. Cloud Technical and Community College received FAA certification for its Aircraft Maintenance Technician program starting fall 2026 with industry partnerships and funding.
This article is based on an official press release from St. Cloud Technical and Community College.
St. Cloud Technical and Community College (SCTCC) has officially received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification for its new Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) program. According to an official press release from the college, FAA representatives visited the campus on March 25, 2026, to present the certification, marking a major milestone for the institution’s aviation training initiatives.
The federal approval paves the way for the program to welcome its first cohort of students in the fall of 2026. The initiative, which was fast-tracked after its initial announcement in the fall of 2024, aims to address a growing regional and national shortage of qualified aviation mechanics.
We note that this development makes SCTCC the fourth college within the Minnesota State system to offer such a program, the launch is backed by significant state and federal funding, as well as broad industry partnerships designed to connect students directly with employers.
Building the Foundation for Aviation Training
The journey to FAA certification required extensive collaboration across multiple organizations. Zack Nicklin, the Director of the Aircraft Maintenance Technician program at SCTCC, spearheaded the effort starting in the summer of 2024.
“This certificate represents a lot of effort and coordination, both within the college and between SCTCC, Minnesota State, and the Federal Aviation Administration,” Nicklin stated in the college’s press release. “Now the hard work really begins as we welcome our first student cohort in the Fall and begin training them to enter the aviation maintenance workforce.”
To bring the program to life, SCTCC partnered with several major aviation entities. The college’s official announcement lists collaborators including Delta Air Lines, Sun Country Airlines, Cirrus Aircraft, the Metropolitan Airports Commission, and the St. Cloud Sky Central Airport.
Funding and Infrastructure
Financial backing has been crucial to the program’s rapid deployment. According to the release, SCTCC secured a Minnesota State Industry Sector Funding Award exceeding $1 million. Additionally, the college received nearly $1.2 million in federal congressional funding dedicated to acquiring specialized training equipment.
Initially, students will train in an on-campus lab that currently houses two airplanes. By the fall of 2027, classes are scheduled to transition to a new hangar currently under construction at the St. Cloud Sky Central Airport.
Addressing the Mechanic Shortage
The aviation industry is currently facing a critical need for maintenance professionals, and the SCTCC program is positioned to help fill that gap. Graduates of the FAA-certified program will be eligible to take the federal exams required for an airframe and powerplant mechanic certificate, which includes written, oral, and practical testing.
Data cited in the SCTCC release highlights the lucrative nature of the career path. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) projects 1,578 job openings in the state between 2022 and 2032. Starting wages average $32 per hour, with the potential to exceed $100,000 annually after five years of experience.
“SCTCC’s leadership in launching Aircraft Maintenance Technician at the St Cloud Sky Central airport is a great example of the college’s commitment to collaboration with industry partners and a ‘get it done’ approach,” noted Brian Myres, Chair of the St. Cloud Regional Airport Authority, in the press release.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that the rapid timeline from the program’s announcement in late 2024 to full FAA certification in early 2026 underscores the urgency with which educational institutions and the aviation industry are moving to address workforce bottlenecks. The direct involvement of major carriers like Delta Air Lines and Sun Country Airlines suggests a strong pipeline from the classroom directly to the hangar floor.
Furthermore, the combination of state grants and federal congressional funding highlights a bipartisan recognition of aviation maintenance as a critical infrastructure need. As the new hangar at St. Cloud Sky Central Airport comes online in 2027, SCTCC is likely to become a key regional hub for technical aviation training in the Upper Midwest.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the SCTCC Aircraft Maintenance Technician program start?
The first cohort of students will begin classes in the fall 2026 semester, following the opening of applications in January 2026.
What certification will graduates be eligible for?
Graduates of the program will be eligible to test for the FAA mechanic certificate with airframe and powerplant ratings.
Where will the training take place?
Initial training will occur in an on-campus lab at SCTCC. By the fall of 2027, the program will move to a newly constructed hangar at the St. Cloud Sky Central Airport.
Photo Credit: St. Cloud Technical and Community College
Training & Certification
Cirrus Aircraft Launches Complimentary Simulator Training for SR20 and SR22 Owners
Cirrus Aircraft introduces Mission Ready Simulator Sessions, offering free scenario-based simulator training to SR20 and SR22 owners across the US to enhance pilot proficiency and safety.
This article is based on an official press release from Cirrus Aircraft.
Cirrus Aircraft has officially launched a new, complimentary simulator training program designed specifically for owners of its popular SR20 and SR22 piston aircraft. Announced this week, the initiative aims to elevate general aviation safety by bridging the critical gap between basic regulatory flight currency and true pilot proficiency.
The program, dubbed “Mission Ready Simulator Sessions,” offers year-round, scenario-based training at participating Cirrus Training Centers across the United States. According to the company’s press release, the curriculum is designed to provide SR Series owners with a continuous pathway to maintain and sharpen their skills in a zero-risk environment.
By offering structured, recurrent simulator sessions to private owners, Cirrus is actively working to bring an airline-level safety culture into the general aviation sector. The program is currently live, with owners able to enroll and track their progress through the proprietary Cirrus Approach digital platform.
Program Details and Curriculum Structure
According to the official press release, the Mission Ready Simulator program delivers 24 structured, mission-based simulator sessions annually, with new content released twice per month. To provide flexibility while encouraging consistent engagement, owners are permitted to complete up to 12 complimentary sessions each year, effectively allowing for one dedicated training session per month.
The curriculum goes significantly beyond basic flight maneuvers. Developed by Platinum Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilots (CSIPs), the sessions integrate real-world aeronautical decision-making, risk management, and the practical application of aircraft systems. Furthermore, the company notes that realistic Air Traffic Control (ATC) communications are embedded within each scenario to accurately simulate high-workload environments.
“Extensive aviation research along with decades of operational experience in flight training environments continues to demonstrate that structured simulation is one of the most effective tools for strengthening pilot decision-making and sustaining proficiency. The Cirrus Mission Ready Simulator Sessions program represents the first phase of a broader investment to expand flight training content designed to enhance safety through continuous learning.”
The Evolution of Cirrus Safety and Training
From Currency to Proficiency
To understand the significance of this new program, it is helpful to look at the broader context of general aviation safety. Under standard Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, private pilots are required to maintain basic “currency”, such as completing three takeoffs and landings every 90 days to legally carry passengers. However, aviation safety experts have long argued that being legally current does not equate to being genuinely proficient in handling complex, in-flight emergencies.
Historical industry data highlights how Cirrus has tackled this exact issue. In the early 2010s, despite the inclusion of the pioneering Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), the aircraft experienced a troubling fatal accident rate, peaking at 16 fatal accidents in 2011. In response, Cirrus completely revamped its training philosophy, launching the “Cirrus Approach” to focus heavily on scenario-based training and proper parachute deployment.
The results of this shift have been historic. Based on industry safety reports, by 2024, the fatal accident rate for the SR series had plummeted to less than 0.3 per 100,000 flight hours. This figure is less than half the general aviation average of approximately 0.79 per 100,000 flight hours.
Recent Technological Investments
The Mission Ready Simulator Sessions are part of a multi-year technological investment by the Duluth, Minnesota-based manufacturer. According to industry research, Cirrus has steadily expanded its digital and physical training footprint over the last two years. In January 2025, the company integrated Augmented Reality (AR) into its training app to allow pilots to practice pre-flight procedures virtually. Later, in September 2025, they launched a comprehensive Instrument Rating program.
To support these new simulator sessions, Cirrus has also recently integrated state-of-the-art ALSIM ALSR G7 simulators into their training centers, providing highly realistic, type-specific environments for SR20 and SR22 pilots.
AirPro News analysis
We view the launch of the Mission Ready Simulator Sessions as a pivotal step in democratizing commercial-grade safety protocols for private aviators. Historically, mandatory, recurrent simulator training has been the exclusive domain of commercial airline pilots and corporate flight departments. By subsidizing the cost of these sessions and making them complimentary for SR Series owners, Cirrus is removing the primary barrier to entry for high-fidelity recurrent training.
Simulators allow pilots to safely practice high-risk emergencies, such as engine failures in hard instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) or CAPS deployments, that are simply too dangerous to practice in a live aircraft. If owner adoption rates for this program are high, we anticipate other general aviation manufacturers may be pressured to offer similar subsidized, continuous-training ecosystems to remain competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible for the Mission Ready Simulator Sessions?
The program is available specifically to owners of Cirrus SR20 and Cirrus SR22 aircraft.
How much does the program cost?
According to the press release, the simulator sessions are entirely complimentary for eligible owners.
How many sessions can an owner complete?
Cirrus releases 24 sessions annually (two per month). Owners can complete up to 12 sessions per year, allowing for one session per month.
Where does the training take place?
The sessions are available at participating Cirrus Training Centers across the United States. Owners can enroll and track their progress via the Cirrus Approach platform.
Sources
Photo Credit: Cirrus
Training & Certification
Airbus Deploys VR Simulator for Pilot Training in Nepal Himalayas
Airbus Helicopters introduced a VR simulator in Nepal to train pilots on H125 helicopters, enhancing safety in high-altitude Himalayan operations.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.
In a bid to enhance aviation Safety in one of the world’s most challenging flying environments, Airbus Helicopters has successfully deployed a state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) simulator in Nepal. The initiative, developed in partnership with Swiss tech firm Loft Dynamics, aims to provide critical, risk-free training to local pilots navigating the Himalayas.
According to an official company statement, the deployment was part of the “Safety First in the Himalayas” roadshow, which concluded on March 25, 2026. The event underscores a growing industry focus on leveraging advanced simulation technology to mitigate the high accident rates associated with mountainous helicopter operations.
The month-long initiative brought together international aviation authorities, local operators, and safety experts to address the unique demands of Nepalese airspace, where unpredictable weather and extreme altitudes leave little room for error.
The “Safety First in the Himalayas” Roadshow
Collaborative Training Initiative
The safety roadshow officially kicked off on February 24 and 25 with a comprehensive conference in Kathmandu. The gathering united key stakeholders, including representatives from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, and safety experts from both Airbus and Loft Dynamics.
Following the conference, the practical training phase commenced. Airbus reported that all 13 Nepalese operators utilizing the H125 Helicopters were invited to register their flight crews for the program. Ultimately, approximately 30 pilots participated, each receiving a mandatory four-hour Training session in the VR simulator.
Tackling Nepal’s Unique Aviation Challenges
High-Altitude Risks
Nepal’s topography presents a uniquely demanding operational context for rotorcraft. Pilots must routinely navigate high mountains, complex terrain, and rapidly changing weather conditions. These factors contribute to an elevated accident rate in the region, necessitating an exceptional level of pilot expertise and split-second decision-making.
Currently, there are 33 Airbus helicopters operating within Nepal, 30 of which are the H125 model, a light single-engine helicopter renowned for its high-altitude performance. The widespread use of the H125 in the region made it the logical focus for the targeted safety campaign.
The Role of Virtual Reality in Flight Safety
Loft Dynamics Simulator
The cornerstone of the training initiative was the Loft Dynamics H125 virtual reality simulator. Known for its agile deployment capabilities and hyper-realism, the system allows pilots to practice complex maneuvers and emergency procedures that would be too dangerous to execute in an actual aircraft.
In its press release, Airbus noted that the simulator’s ability to reproduce real-world conditions is a major asset for pilot preparation:
“…reproduce the flight environment and emergency situations with astonishing fidelity allows for intensive training, without risk.”
The logistical effort required to transport and set up the simulator in Nepal represents a significant investment of time and expert resources by Airbus and its partners. Based on the positive reception in Nepal, the partners are already evaluating plans to replicate the roadshow in other global regions that face similar operational hurdles.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that the deployment of a high-fidelity VR simulator to a remote, high-risk operational area like Nepal marks a significant shift in helicopter flight training. Historically, full-motion simulators have been massive, stationary installations located at major training hubs, requiring pilots to travel extensively. The portability of the Loft Dynamics VR system democratizes access to top-tier emergency training, bringing the simulator directly to the operators who need it most. If this model proves successful in reducing incident rates in the Himalayas, we anticipate it could become a standard regulatory requirement for operators in other extreme environments, fundamentally altering how the rotorcraft industry approaches recurrent safety training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What simulator was deployed in Nepal?
Airbus Helicopters deployed the H125 virtual reality simulator, which was developed in collaboration with Loft Dynamics.
How many pilots participated in the training?
Around 30 Nepalese pilots completed a full four-hour session on the VR simulator during the roadshow.
Why was Nepal chosen for this safety event?
Nepal features high mountains, complex terrain, and rapidly changing weather, creating a high-risk environment with an elevated Incident rate for helicopter operations.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
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