ITE and ST Engineering Launch New Engine MRO Training Facility in Singapore

Memorandum of Understanding signed at launch to deepen partnership in building aviation talent pipeline

Singapore, 15 May 2025 - The Institute of Technical Education (ITE) and ST Engineering today marked a new milestone in aviation training with the launch of a training facility for aircraft engine Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). Named Onboarding Aviation Skills, Knowledge and Innovation Learning Laboratory (Onboarding@SKILL), the facility is the first of its kind focused on aircraft engine MRO developed in collaboration between an educational institution and ST Engineering. 

Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry & Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, officiated at the launch of this new training facility at ITE College Central today. 

Projected to train over 380 students and trainees annually, Onboarding@SKILL closely mirrors actual processes in the MRO industry, replicating core engine maintenance procedures to deliver industry-leading training. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and numerous smart technologies that are used by ST Engineering to enhance precision, efficiency and safety in its MRO operations. These include Augmented Reality (AR) tools, robotics, additive manufacturing and digital solutions such as electronic task cards. 

This specialised training lab will serve as a vital bridge between academic training and industry requirements, providing a structured pathway for ITE students enrolled in the new three-year Higher Nitec in Aerospace Engineering course from 2026 onwards. Through hands-on training in Onboarding@SKILL and potential internships with ST Engineering, students will be fully equipped with relevant skills to pursue meaningful careers in aviation MRO. 

Such skill acquisition also puts the students in good stead for progression to the ITE Work-Study Diploma (WSDip) in Aircraft Engine Maintenance and WSDip in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering courses. Current trainees undertaking these two WSDip courses will also use the facility for targeted in-campus training, thereby enhancing their technical expertise.

MOU on talent development partnership

At the launch, ITE and ST Engineering inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that outlines plans for continued collaboration on curriculum development, facility enhancement and internship opportunities, underscoring a shared commitment to developing future-ready aviation professionals.

Highlights of the MOU include: 

1. Support for the Facility
   ST Engineering will collaborate with ITE to develop simulation training packages to enhance learning of real-world MRO processes at Onboarding@SKILL. They will advise and support ITE staff in conducting training at the facility.
   
   
2. 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.
   
   
3. Staff Capability Development
   ST Engineering will provide industry attachment opportunities for ITE staff. Staff on attachment could be involved in joint projects with ST Engineering.
   
   
4. Internships and Career Progression
   ST Engineering will provide internships for ITE students from the Higher Nitec in Aerospace Engineering course, while ITE trainees in the WSDip in Aircraft Engine Maintenance or WSDip in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering courses under employment with ST Engineering will undergo a structured on-job-training pathway to become full-fledged technicians.

Mr Jeffrey Lam, President Commercial Aerospace at ST Engineering, said, “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. Through initiatives like Onboarding@SKILL, we are working hand in hand with local educational institutions such as ITE to equip students with practical skills and exposure to the latest technologies in aviation maintenance — preparing them well to meet the exacting and evolving needs of the industry.”

Ms Low Khah Gek, Chief Executive Officer of ITE, said, "At ITE, our curriculum is designed to ensure students gain early exposure to an authentic work environment. This is made possible through the strong support of industry partners like ST Engineering, who facilitate both authentic learning on campus as well as workplace learning opportunities. Together, we are on the right track to nurture the next generation of aerospace professionals." 

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