This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.

Embraer Celebrates 25 Years of Its Elite Aeronautical Engineering Master’s Program

In March 2026, Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer is marking the 25th anniversary of its Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering Program, known locally as the Programa de Especialização em Engenharia (PEE). Launched in 2001, the initiative serves as the company’s premier pipeline for highly specialized engineering talent, operating in close partnership with Brazil’s prestigious Technological Institute of Aeronautics (ITA).

According to the official press release, the program has successfully graduated over 1,800 engineers since its inception. These alumni have gone on to play instrumental roles in designing and developing some of Embraer’s most recognizable modern aircraft, including the E-Jets commercial family, the KC-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft, and the Phenom and Praetor executive jets.

As the global aerospace sector faces ongoing talent shortages, Embraer’s proprietary educational pipeline stands out for its remarkable retention and success metrics. Company statistics indicate that the program boasts a historical hiring rate of over 96%, effectively transitioning students from the classroom directly into the manufacturer’s engineering workforce.

A Highly Competitive Pipeline for Innovation

Program Structure and Selectivity

The PEE functions as a professional master’s degree recognized by Brazil’s Ministry of Education (MEC). Embraer notes that the curriculum spans 18 months of full-time dedication, utilizing a blended learning approach. Classes are conducted both remotely and in-person at Embraer’s headquarters and the ITA campus in São José dos Campos, São Paulo.

Demand for the program is exceptionally high. Embraer reports receiving an average of 5,000 applications annually from across Brazil for a cohort of just 45 to 90 available spots. Currently, 90 professionals are enrolled in the training, which encompasses approximately 3,000 hours of theoretical and practical “learn by doing” instruction. The courses are taught by a combination of ITA professors, seasoned Embraer professionals, and external aerospace consultants.

Financial Support and Student Benefits

To attract top-tier talent, Embraer provides substantial financial backing to its participants. According to program details, selected students receive a monthly scholarship of R$ 5,000 (approximately $925 USD), which increases by 20% during their second year. Additionally, participants are granted comprehensive benefits, including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and meal allowances.

Eligibility is broad yet rigorous. The program accepts recent graduates from nearly 30 different engineering disciplines, ranging from Aerospace and Mechanical to Software and Robotics. Advanced English proficiency is a strict prerequisite, reflecting the global nature of Embraer’s operations.

Cultivating the Next Generation of Engineers

Diversity and Soft Skills Development

Beyond technical prototyping and aeronautical technologies, Embraer emphasizes that the PEE curriculum heavily integrates interpersonal skills. Training modules focus on leadership, communication, empathy, and emotional intelligence. This holistic approach is designed to prepare engineers not just for technical problem-solving, but for collaborative leadership roles within the company.

The program is also making strides in diversifying the aerospace engineering field. Embraer highlighted that its most recent cohort achieved a record 29% female participation, signaling a positive shift in gender representation within a traditionally male-dominated sector.

Company leadership views the program as a cornerstone of their corporate strategy. Andreza Alberto, Vice President of People, ESG, and Corporate Communications at Embraer, emphasized the program’s evolutionary nature:

“Over these 25 years, the PEE has been in constant evolution to adapt the specialization of professionals to the company’s needs and challenges. In addition, it provides a unique career opportunity through the development of technical and personal skills…”

Similarly, Luís Carlos Affonso, Vice President of Engineering and Technological Development, credited the program with driving the company’s product success:

“The PEE has allowed us to attract and develop differentiated talents who, over the last 25 years, have greatly contributed to the creation of hugely successful products such as the E-Jets, KC-390, Phenoms, and Praetors.”

Strategic Importance Amidst Record Growth

AirPro News analysis

We view the 25th anniversary of the PEE program not just as an educational milestone, but as a critical component of Embraer’s broader corporate momentum. In early March 2026, Embraer reported record-breaking financial results for the 2025 fiscal year, generating $7.58 billion in revenue, an 18% year-over-year increase. Furthermore, the company delivered 244 aircraft and saw its firm order backlog surge to an all-time high of $31.6 billion.

To execute on a $31.6 billion backlog, securing intellectual capital is just as vital as securing physical supply chains. While global competitors like Boeing and Airbus frequently grapple with engineering bottlenecks and talent attrition, Embraer’s deep, 25-year integration with ITA provides a reliable, highly calibrated talent moat. By funding and shaping the curriculum of its future workforce, Embraer ensures that incoming engineers are immediately productive and aligned with the company’s specific technological roadmaps, particularly in the development of next-generation sustainable aviation technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Embraer PEE program?

The Programa de Especialização em Engenharia (PEE) is an 18-month Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering program run by Embraer in partnership with the Technological Institute of Aeronautics (ITA). It serves as a specialized training and recruitment pipeline for the company.

What is the hiring rate for graduates?

According to Embraer, historically over 96% of the program’s participants are hired by the company upon completing their training.

Who is eligible to apply?

The program is open to recent graduates from nearly 30 engineering fields, including Aeronautical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Mechanical, and Software engineering. Applicants must also possess advanced English proficiency.

Sources: Embraer Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Jet AirWerks, LLC and Stratton Aviation, LLC.

Jet AirWerks, LLC and Stratton Aviation, LLC have officially entered into a new agreement to conduct teardowns of CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines. The teardown operations will take place at the Jet AirWerks Engine Services Center located in Arkansas City, Kansas.

According to a joint press release, the collaboration brings together Jet AirWerks, an FAA Part 145 Repair Station specializing in maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, and Stratton Aviation, a global commercial aviation aftermarket company focused on asset acquisition and end-of-life services.

The partnership aims to address the growing industry demand for Used Serviceable Material (USM) by streamlining the engine teardown and parts overhaul process. To support the new agreement, Jet AirWerks has already invested in additional gantry space, ensuring dedicated induction slots for Stratton Aviation’s assets.

Enhancing Engine Teardown Capabilities

The newly announced agreement is designed to optimize the lifecycle management of CFM56 engines, which are widely used in commercial aviation. By conducting teardowns directly at the Jet AirWerks facility, the two companies intend to reduce turnaround times and improve the availability of aftermarket parts.

Leadership Perspectives

Executives from both companies highlighted the operational benefits of the partnership in their official statements. John Moeder, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Jet AirWerks, emphasized the potential for facility growth.

“We’re very excited to grow our partnership with Stratton. This agreement streamlines the process from engine induction to the overhaul of parts coming directly from teardown and makes it possible for us to invest more in our Engine Services Center.”

As noted in the press release, Moeder’s remarks underscore the strategic value of integrating teardown and overhaul processes under one roof.

Expanding the CFM56 Asset Portfolio

The aviation aftermarket relies heavily on the availability of high-quality USM to keep maintenance costs manageable for airlines and leasing companies. Stratton Aviation, which operates its own dual-certified FAA and EASA Part 145 repair station, plans to significantly expand its portfolio of CFM56 assets throughout 2026.

Rapid Turnaround for Global Customers

Nicole Sobers, Vice President of CFM Engines for Stratton Aviation, pointed to the critical need for reliable supply chains in the current MRO landscape.

“As demand for Used Serviceable Material (USM) continues to grow, partnerships like this are crucial to maintaining reliable supply for our global customers. Dedicated teardown capacity and rapid turnaround times allow us to convert newly acquired whole assets into available inventory within weeks.”

According to the company’s announcement, this rapid conversion of whole engines into available inventory is a primary driver behind the collaboration.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that the partnership between Jet AirWerks and Stratton Aviation reflects a broader industry trend toward vertical integration in the engine teardown and USM markets. With supply chain constraints continuing to impact the production of new engine parts, the ability to quickly dismantle retiring CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines and route their components directly into the overhaul pipeline provides a distinct competitive advantage. Jet AirWerks, which was founded in 2007, appears to be leveraging this agreement to justify further capital investments in its Kansas facility, while Stratton secures the dedicated capacity necessary to execute its 2026 expansion plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine types are covered under this agreement?

The agreement specifically covers the teardown of CFM56-5B and CFM56-7B engines, according to the official press release.

Where will the engine teardowns take place?

The teardowns will be conducted at the Jet AirWerks Engine Services Center in Arkansas City, Kansas.

What is Used Serviceable Material (USM)?

USM refers to used aircraft or engine parts that have been inspected, repaired, or overhauled to meet regulatory standards, allowing them to be safely reinstalled on active aircraft.

Sources

• Jet AirWerks, LLC and Stratton Aviation, LLC Press Release

Daher Reports Record 2025 Revenue Amid Strategic Expansion

French aerospace manufacturers Daher has reported a record-breaking financial performance for 2025, marking a pivotal milestone in its five-year “Take Off 2027” strategic plan. According to an official company press release, Daher achieved €1.9 billion in revenue, driven by aggressive international expansion, advancements in sovereign defense innovation, and a steadfast commitment to decarbonization.

The 2025 results highlight a period of rapid growth and transformation for the family-owned company. Alongside its financial-results, Daher announced significant operational milestones, including the rapid development of a new military drones and the expansion of its manufacturing footprint in the United States.

To support this new scale of operations, the company also revealed a major corporate leadership restructuring set to take effect in late March 2026, signaling a generational shift in its executive board as it prepares for the next phase of global aerospace demand.

Financial Growth and Global Expansion

Record Revenue and Workforce Expansion

Daher’s financial trajectory has shown marked acceleration under its current strategy plan. The company reported that its 2025 revenue reached €1.9 billion, a substantial increase from the €1.65 billion recorded in 2023. Furthermore, the manufacturer noted that it currently holds the equivalent of five years of revenue in its orders book, securing long-term operational stability.

This financial growth has been mirrored by a steady increase in human capital. According to the company’s release, Daher’s global workforce grew by 3.6% year-over-year, reaching 14,500 employees. In 2025 alone, the company recruited 2,772 external employees, split nearly evenly between France (1,427) and international locations (1,345). The company also highlighted its diversity and training initiatives, noting that women now represent 27% of the total workforce and 31% of new hires, while the Daher Learning Center delivered over 163,000 hours of training across its global facilities.

Expanding the U.S. Manufacturing Footprint

International operations now account for 55% of Daher’s total revenue, with 4,000 employees, representing 28% of its workforce, based outside of France. A cornerstone of this international strategy is the expansion of its manufacturing capabilities in the United States.

To meet robust demand in the Americas, which absorbs over 61% of TBM aircraft deliveries, Daher announced the construction of a third Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Witham Field in Stuart, Florida. Following a long-term lease renewal, this facility will assemble both TBM and Kodiak aircraft, complementing the company’s existing assembly lines in Tarbes, France, and Sandpoint, Idaho. The company projects that the first Florida-built aircraft will roll out in 2027.

Additionally, Daher expanded its global footprint in 2025 by opening new offices in Brazil to focus on aircraft sales and in the United Arab Emirates to bolster its industrial services. The company also consolidated its industrial service positions in Tianjin, China, supporting Airbus A320 and A321 final assembly lines.

Sovereign Innovation and Technological Advancements

The EyePulse MALE Drone

A major highlight of Daher’s 2025 operational year was its aggressive push into the aerospace and defense sectors, emphasizing what the company terms “sovereign innovation.” In June 2025, Daher was selected to co-develop the EyePulse Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drone demonstrator.

According to the company, the drone was designed, integrated, and completed its first flight by December 2025, a record development timeline of just six months. Utilizing a TBM 900 series airframe, the EyePulse project underscores Daher’s growing capabilities in complex system architecture, dual-use technology management, and high-level avionics integration for national defense applications.

Thermoplastic Composites and Sustainability

Daher continues to invest heavily in its three technology centers to prepare for the next generation of commercial aircraft. At the Shap’in Tech Center in Nantes, France, the company is accelerating the industrialization of induction welding, automation, and recycling for thermoplastic composites. These material innovations are achieving weight savings of up to 15%, which the company states will be critical for supplying future single-aisle short- and mid-range aircraft.

In recognition of these advancements, Daher was awarded a 2025 JEC Innovation Award for its welded wing rib made of thermoplastic composites.

These technological investments are closely tied to Daher’s sustainability targets. The company has integrated a strict climate policy aligned with the Paris Agreement into its “Take Off 2027” plan, aiming to reduce operational emissions by 50% by 2032 compared to a 2022 baseline. As of early 2026, Daher reported it has already achieved a 15% reduction in emissions. Consequently, the independent Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) awarded Daher a Leadership score of “A-“, ranking it among the most committed aerospace companies regarding climate transition.

Corporate Governance Restructuring

Leadership Changes for the Next Era

To support its expanded scale and future ambitions, Daher announced a significant leadership restructuring in March 2026. After 20 years with the group, including a decade as its leader, Didier Kayat will step down as Chairman and CEO on March 31, 2026.

The company announced that Thibault Scaramanga, previously Vice Chairman representing the Daher family, has been appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors. Aymeric Daher has been named Executive Deputy CEO. Furthermore, the board of directors will be strengthened with the appointments of Marwan Lahoud and Éric Versey, the latter representing private equity investor Bpifrance.

AirPro News analysis

We view Daher’s recent trajectory as a compelling case study in middle-market aerospace resilience and strategic foresight. By successfully balancing high-rate serial production for major OEMs like Airbus with proprietary aircraft manufacturing (the TBM and Kodiak lines) and defense contracting, Daher has effectively insulated itself against sector-specific downturns.

The strategic pivot toward the United States, most notably the upcoming Florida assembly line, demonstrates a clear recognition that the Americas remain the primary growth engine for general aviation. By transitioning from a distinctly French manufacturer to a transatlantic aerospace player, Daher is positioning its supply chain closer to its largest customer base.

Furthermore, the company’s heavy investment in thermoplastic composites is not merely an environmental initiative; it is a core business strategy. As the industry looks toward the next generation of commercial airliners, weight reduction will be paramount for fuel efficiency and emissions compliance. Daher’s proven ability to industrialize these lightweight materials places it in a highly competitive position to secure lucrative aerostructures contracts in the coming decade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Daher’s “Take Off 2027” plan?

Launched in 2023, “Take Off 2027” is Daher’s five-year strategic plan focused on international expansion, sovereign defense innovation, and decarbonization. The plan aims to solidify the company’s position as a large, profitable international aerospace player.

When will the new Daher assembly line in Florida open?

Daher is currently constructing a third Final Assembly Line (FAL) at Witham Field in Stuart, Florida. According to the company, the first aircraft built at this facility is expected to roll out in 2027.

What is the EyePulse drone?

The EyePulse is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) military drone demonstrator co-developed by Daher. Based on the TBM 900 series airframe, it was developed and flown in a record time of six months in 2025, highlighting Daher’s capabilities in defense and sovereign innovation.

Sources: Daher Press Release