SHANNON-based Atlantic Aviation Group (AAG) has welcomed an announcement by the Department of Further and Higher Education and the National Apprenticeship Office regarding a significant expansion of aircraft mechanic apprenticeship places across Ireland.
As part of the expansion, AAG will deliver 75 additional training places from September, advancing the national effort to double annual apprenticeship intake from 79 to 160.
The move is seen as a vital response to growing global demand for skilled aircraft maintenance engineers.
AAG employs more than 800 people in Shannon and Brize Norton in the UK. With a history spanning 65 years, AAG offers services including aircraft maintenance, design, engineering, Part 147 training, and aircraft management solutions.
Speaking about the apprenticeship announcement, AAG CEO Shane O’Neill said: “We are proud to support this expansion and to train apprentices not just for our organisation, but for the benefit of the entire Irish aviation sector. This investment reflects the strategic importance of developing a strong pipeline of engineering talent to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving industry.”
The company’s apprenticeship programme has produced award-winning graduates and continues to be a vital stepping stone for careers in aviation.
“Doubling the number of training places is not just a win for the industry — it’s a win for apprentices across the country who will now have greater access to a rewarding and internationally respected career path,” added Anthony Brennan, chief people officer at AAG.
“We look forward to welcoming a new cohort of ambitious future engineers to Shannon later this year.”