News

Institute Awarded the Aviation Academic Education Award at Irish Aviation Awards

29/05/2015

The event was attended by the cream of Ireland's aviation sector and a total of 19 prestigious trophies were presented to the very best organisations and leaders within the aviation industry. The awards were presented by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe, TD alongside journalist and broadcaster Richard Curran.

An independent panel of recognised and expert Judges, representing the aviation industry sector, determined the winners. Other award recipients on the night included Ryanair, Dublin Airport and Willie Walsh for his Outstanding Contribution to Irish Aviation.

Earlier this year, IT Carlow launched a €5.5million Centre for Aerospace Engineering, comprising an avionics workshop and a fleet of aircraft inside its own hangar, based at the Institute’s School of Engineering. It provides undergraduates in pilot studies, aerospace and aircraft systems engineering with a simulated live aircraft maintenance environment in which to acquire the most up-to-date industry skills.

The Centre facilitates IT Carlow’s niche degree courses in Aero Engineering and Pilot Studies and its Bachelor of Engineering in Aircraft Systems, which is the only course of its kind in the country.  IT Carlow is approved by the Irish Aviation Authority as a Part 147 Training Organisation where students may undertake the necessary theoretical and practical training toward obtaining their Aircraft Maintenance License (AML). Graduates from the Bachelor of Engineering in Aircraft Systems programme have achieved type rating to work on aircraft such as the Boeing 757.

90% of graduates are employed within the sector or go on to further study. According to IT Carlow, graduates are enjoying careers with prestigious organisations such as the European Space Agency, Aer Lingus, British Airways, the UK’s Ministry of Defence and DLR (German Space Agency).

“IT Carlow is thrilled to receive this most prestigious award. Aviation is one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the world and the Institute is dedicated to providing the very best teaching and facilities to ensure our graduates are desirable to the leading airlines and specialist aircraft maintenance employers, both in Ireland and internationally.”, said Brian McQuaid, Head of School of Engineering, IT Carlow.

-ENDS-

For reference: Alma Feeley, IT Carlow
087 8204934   e:alma.feeley@setu.ie

Pic Caption: Brian McQuaid, Head of School of Engineering, IT Carlow with Anne Nolan Chairman of the Irish Aviation Authority at the Irish Aviation Awards where the Institute was awarded the Aviation Academic Education Award