Bombardier received U.S. Department of Labor registration for an apprenticeship training program conducted at its Red Oak, Texas facility in conjunction with Texas State Technical College (TSTC). The recognition enables Bombardier to expand its search for skilled manufacturing labor across the U.S. and maximize the available pool for the production of the Global 7500 metal wing in Red Oak, the airframer said.

Launched in December 2019, the two-year Bombardier Aviation Apprenticeship Program involves on-the-job training and theoretical, in-class learning. Bombardier and TSTC jointly provide the training at no cost using industry-tailored modules, experienced instructors, and tools and equipment. Modules cover health, safety, and quality best practices, along with aircraft drawing and specification comprehension, standards, and regulatory requirements, among others.

The first 55 individuals have entered the program, and plans call to recruit at least 100 more for the program over the next two years.

“Achieving official accreditation from the U.S. Department of Labor is crucial as it enables us to increase our scope and search for the best talent available to grow the program and in turn continue to ramp up Bombardier’s Global 7500 program,” said Paul Sislian, executive v-p of operations and operational excellence for Bombardier Aviation. “With more than 50 talented individuals currently being trained in the program, it underscores the importance of fueling the aerospace pipeline in the Red Oak region.”