A start-up program to teach aircraft painting skills will begin this June in the UK under a partnership between the Hartlepool College of Further Education and aircraft painting and refinishing company Airbourne Colours, which is based at Teesside International Airport (EGNV). The six-week course, funded by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority’s Adult Skills Fund and held at the college, will provide local residents age 19 or older with essential skills in aircraft spray painting. 

Following that, successful trainees will progress to a 1.5-year paid, hands-on training internship at Airbourne Colours’ aircraft paint facility at EGNV. In addition, they can complete the 21-month course to receive SAE AS7489 certification. An open information event will be held at Hartlepool College on April 9, and the application window closes on April 27.

“We’re committed to providing skills that directly meet industry needs, and this aircraft painting program is a prime example of how targeted training can create substantial employment opportunities,” said Helen Gott, head of Hartlepool College’s School of Engineering. “We look forward to welcoming trainees and helping them launch rewarding careers in this growing field.”

Airborne Colours also operates paint shops at East Midlands and Exeter airports that can accommodate aircraft up to narrowbodies such as the Airbus A321 or Boeing 737 Max 10.