Embraer has launched a training program for aviation mechanics in its home country of Brazil. The program, titled Guiding and Inspiring Future Technicians (or GIFT), recently welcomed its inaugural class of 22 students in Sorocaba. Designed to train new aviation mechanics, the three-year course will also have in-venue learning classes in partnership with Athon College and aviation school EWM.

EWM will be overseeing the course structure with a curriculum that follows National Civil Aviation Agency guidelines.

"It is great to see interest in this career growing as Brazil is a country with a robust aerospace industry and talented aeronautical professionals," stated Everton Vicente, director of maintenance and FBO at Embraer Services & Support, who noted that the program has attracted a lot of interest from professionals in the sector. "The high number of applicants demonstrates the exciting potential for growth in this field, especially in Sorocaba, which has established itself as one of Brazil's main aeronautical maintenance clusters."

Founded by the Brazilian government in 1969 with an initial focus on aircraft production for the Brazilian military, Embraer expanded production in the 1980s to include commuter and regional airliners. Following privatization in 1994, the airframer added larger airliners and business jets to its portfolio.

"For over 20 years, Embraer has carried out several initiatives of training for qualifying professionals in the aeronautical sector, such as the Engineering Specialization Program and the Software Specialization Program," added Carlos Naufel, president and CEO of Embraer Services & Support. "The GIFT course is another step forward for strengthening our approach to offer opportunities and advanced knowledge in a strategic area for our country."